[LaVecchiaSignora]

Sampdoria midfielder Christian Maggio was delighted to see his side secure a place in the UEFA Cup proper, but admits that they made hard work of it.

The Blucerchiati led Hajduk Split 1-0 after an excellent first-leg performance in Croatia and looked to be home and dry when a Vincenzo Montella penalty doubled their aggregate lead at Marassi.

However, with just seven minutes remaining they conceded from a free-kick and were left one goal away from elimination before the welcome sound of the final whistle.

“We could surely have put the game to bed earlier and we came close to losing it, but we got through in the end and that’s what matters,” said Maggio, who was tripped for the crucial penalty.

Boss Walter Mazzarri also admitted that things could have been easier in the closing stages, but was evidently relieved at negotiating his first European hurdle.

“What mattered was getting through and any result which allowed that was a success,” the ex-Reggina tactician insisted.

“Once we went ahead we lost our way and that happens in games like this. In the second half I wanted us to go after another goal to allow us to relax, but instead we suffered real nerves for the last six or seven minutes.”

The draw for the first round takes place at midday on Friday and while Mazzarri will be watching with interest, he has no preferred opposition.

“I don’t mind who we get next,” he stated. “I just want to stay in this competition for as long as possible.”

ch4