RFS is set to face Greek powerhouse PAOK in a highly anticipated UEFA Europa League fixture tomorrow. Ahead of the game, RFS head coach Viktors Morozs and defender Herdi Prenga shared their thoughts on the challenge ahead, their preparation, and the significance of this match.
Speaking about the team’s mindset, Viktors Morozs expressed his pride and excitement about continuing their European campaign deep into the calendar year:
“Of course, the feelings are the best. Even though it’s already late November, almost December, we’re still playing and ready for this challenge. We’ve prepared with joy and are looking forward to a very interesting match. Our opponent is very strong – the Greek champions – so it will be another big challenge for us. But I really like how our players are approaching this situation. Even though many teams in our country have already ended their seasons, we’re still here, and the players are ready, which makes me very happy. I’m convinced that PAOK will be very motivated and well-prepared for tomorrow’s game. Their results in Europe haven’t been the best, but they’re showing great performances and are capable of a lot. For us, the Livonia Cup match was important since we hadn’t played for several days. The only downside was having to play on an artificial pitch, but it was something beyond our control. It helped us evaluate how to prepare correctly for the match. Training and preparation change when the rhythm of the season is over. Players feel the physical and mental strain because they’ve never played so many official games before. Yet, despite the fatigue, our players remain highly motivated, and I don’t see any signs of them wishing for the season to end sooner.”
RFS defender Herdi Prenga also spoke about the upcoming challenge, recognizing the formidable strength of PAOK:
“A very, very tough opponent awaits us tomorrow, but I think we’ve prepared very well for this game. Like always, we will do everything to get a positive result. I’ve played twice against PAOK. What I can say about those games is that they were completely different. In Greece, it was very difficult because of their fans, while in Croatia it was a little easier. But PAOK always has a strong team, and we’re expecting the same tomorrow. In the Virsliga, we play more offensively, but in Europa League matches, it’s tougher as a defender. These games are more challenging, but this is our tactic. We prepare as best as we can against the opponent.”