«Give it 100% to claim victory»
Vladan Ivić analyzed his thoughts to Novasports TV regarding the upcoming game against Olympiacos in “Georgios Karaiskakis” Stadium. Here is what the Serbian coach said about the defeat in Baku, the league resuming and Sunday’s encounter.
On PAOK’s trip to Baku and the negative result:
«After a defeat we definitely don’t feel at ease, but we don’t have time to dwell on it. There is another encounter ahead and we must prepare well«.
On the importance of a team being able to leave past matches behind:
«After consecutive games in the Super League, in Europe and in the Greek Cup, that kicks off in a few days, there is no luxury of celebrating after a win or remaining upset after a loss. We can only point out some mistakes we committed and try to correct them as soon as possible, because that’s the only way to move ahead«.
On the level of readiness he expects his team to show on Sunday:
«The players are ready for back-to-back games. We had a long preseason and played many games in a few weeks. We have a big roster and it’s positive that we haven’t had many injuries, except for Tzavellas who is improving on a daily basis«.
On whether Olympiacos have a higher morale ahead of Sunday’s derby:
«After victories, it’s normal for a team to have high morale. Olympiacos won their last encounter, we didn’t. But these were European encounters. We will try to leave that behind us because we have a league match now. There is a tough rival waiting and we need to do our best. We will try to win this game«.
On whether he believes that PAOK could create against Olympiacos as many opportunities as they did in their previous matches:
«This will be our hardest match in the league yet. But we have had tough opposition in European games and we didn’t encounter serious problems. My players know what I am looking for. We know what we want. I hope that they will bring out on the pitch the elements I want them to. We create many chances and that is good. I have already said that, creating opportunities, means consistency on the pitch. In my book, that is very important. We wouldn’t mind more effectiveness, but that too will come eventually«.
On whether PAOK will change their tactics for the Olympiacos game:
«Each match is different. We have a certain style of play we work on and we try to bring it out on the pitch. However, this is a different game. We will give our best for victory«.
On Olympiacos:
«Olympiacos have a good team. They play attacking football and they apply pressure, especially in their home ground. We all know that. I have nothing more to say. We will work and try to make things work to our advantage«.
