Ahead of Latvia’s UEFA Nations League play-off clash with Gibraltar on March 31, midfielder Lūkass Vapne and head coach Paolo Nicolato stressed that the team must approach the return leg with the right mentality despite holding a narrow advantage.
Latvia travel into the second match with a 1-0 lead, but Vapne made it clear that the squad is not thinking about defending that result. Instead, the focus remains on playing proactively and securing another victory.
“We can’t think about protecting a 1-0 lead. We have to approach the game as if we are behind and need to win. The goal is to prove that we belong in League C, so we must go out and play our game,” Vapne explained.
He also highlighted the importance of controlling transitions and managing dangerous moments, noting that tactical fouls in midfield could be used if necessary to stop counterattacks.
Although his club season in Norway has yet to begin, Vapne played the full match in Gibraltar and feels fully prepared physically.
“I feel good. The first game showed that, especially the second half. The pre-season has been long, so I’ve had enough time to build up my fitness.”
Discussing the opponent, Vapne pointed out that Gibraltar offer a different challenge compared to teams like Andorra.
“They allow you more time on the ball and don’t play as aggressively. Andorra were more physical and tried to disrupt the game constantly. Gibraltar are more open, but they still have dangerous players, especially on the wings.”
He also noted that conditions played a role in the first leg, particularly the wind, which affected how both teams approached the game.
The midfielder explained that Latvia adapted their style by using more long passes due to Gibraltar’s compact midfield shape. Once more space opened up, the team was able to play more through central areas.
Head coach Paolo Nicolato shared a similar assessment, confirming that Gibraltar’s defensive setup forced Latvia to look for solutions out wide.
“They were very compact in the middle and left space on the flanks. That was clearly part of their plan, and we adapted accordingly,” Nicolato said.
However, the Italian coach underlined that improving efficiency in front of goal remains crucial. “Finishing is something that takes time to improve, but it’s decisive. In matches like this, it can make all the difference.”
Latvia will look to turn their first-leg advantage into progression when the teams meet tomorrow at Skonto Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 local time.
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Source: https://lff.lv/zinas/18885/vapne-mums-pasiem-jakontrole-speles-ritejums/
