Riga FC secured their first Latvian Virslīga title since 2020 on Friday evening in a goalless draw against FK Tukums 2000. For manager Adrian Gul’a, the result was more than just a point on the board – it was the culmination of a transformative season defined by teamwork, resilience, and meticulous preparation.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gul’a reflected on the match and the season as a whole. “It was not the top performance in the final steps, but we knew we needed just one point – and we achieved that. But it’s not only about today. My players deserve immense respect for their work all season, their families, and my staff,” he said, emphasizing the collective effort that underpinned Riga’s success.
Gul’a described the season as a journey of growth and adaptation. “The start wasn’t easy. We had tough moments early on, but that’s how you build character,” he said. The coach highlighted the importance of cultivating a strong team spirit: “It’s not just about tactics, skills, or intensity. The respect between players, the unity despite coming from different countries – it’s that environment which won us the league.”
Indeed, Riga FC’s campaign was marked by a remarkable 15-game winning streak, demonstrating consistency even when results seemed improbable. Gul’a credited the club’s culture shift for this success, particularly emphasizing the transformation of long-serving players who regained both confidence and respect under his guidance.
Sunday’s game against Tukums 2000 may have ended 0-0, but Gul’a insisted the team played to win. “We pushed for victory in the first half, but the players showed experience, controlling the game in the second half. The last ten minutes were tense, of course, but I trusted my defenders and the team as a whole,” he said. The draw was sufficient to secure the championship, but the coach’s focus remained on the season-long effort rather than the final scoreline.
Gul’a also highlighted the development of key players, particularly goalkeeper Krišjānis Zviedris, who two years ago after a challenging spell in Finland was thinking it was the end for him in football. “Now he’s a title-winning goalkeeper. His growth, both mentally and technically, is remarkable,” Gul’a said, crediting the supportive environment within Riga FC for nurturing his players’ development.
While celebrating the championship, Gul’a is already thinking ahead to future challenges. “This is the first step. We will give our best to win the double on Wednesday,” he said. He also shared his vision for Latvian football, emphasizing the need for cooperation among clubs, owners, and local authorities to create stronger infrastructure and opportunities for young players.
Gul’a concluded the press-conference by thanking everyone: “We are champions because of the team, because of the values we built, and because everyone – players, staff, families – believed in this journey. It’s fantastic.” With the league title secured, Riga FC now turns its attention to completing a domestic double and continuing to set the standard in Latvian football.
