«Build a stronger character»
PAOK coach Răzvan Lucescu spoke to Novasports TV on the eve of the encounter against AOK Kerkyra. He analyzed the aftermath of the elimination suffered by Östersunds FK and pointed towards the future.
On the elimination suffered in Sweden:
«I have already spoken about that game. Our rivals outran us. Their finer physical condition gave them more aggressiveness, more reaction, helped them think clearly. In such a match, when one lacks reaction, they are one step behind their rivals, gradually lose control and their self-confidence. Our aim was the contrary: to push forward, to keep our opponents as far away as possible from our box. But we weren’t able to hold on to the ball. Due to the pressing of our rivals and our delayed reaction, we failed to make the most of open spaces and control the match. It was a bad match, everything worked againsts us. Even the players who could prove crucial for such encounters, such as Pelkas and Cañas, were injured. That led us to using in three consecutive games three players that were not fully fit«.
On the day after and how long it will take the team to reach the level he desires:
«It’s good for us and for me especially that there is an international break ahead with no official matches for two weeks. Real work starts now, because it’s difficult to work with three matches in seven days. It was also difficult for the players to come to terms with this situation. They all wanted to qualify, for their career, their contracts and the season in general. They are all upset and disappointed, but in such cases, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. It’s the worst possible moment for the team, the worst time for me to start working. There is too much pressure and disappointment. But this situation could well help the team and help me build a stronger character«.
On what makes him optimistic:
«My group of players. I firmly believe that they have a strong will to show everyone –and above all themselves- that they are part of a powerful team. There is also time to work. We will have time to prepare each match, giving 100% of ourselves, and having better physical condition. There will be also competition between the players to make it to the starting line-up. Even now we are presented with opportunities to make the most out of this difficult situation«.
On the encounter against AOK Kerkyra:
«It’s all about the three points. Everyone who steps on the pitch must fight until the end for victory. As I said before, a whole new season starts on Sunday«.
