---
title: "Damjan Pavlović: “We respect Arda, but we’re not changing our game”"
date: 2025-08-07T07:40:20Z
lang: en
author: "Dmitrijs Kravcenko"
canonical: https://balticfootballnews.com/damjan-pavlovic-we-respect-arda-but-were-not-changing-our-game/
categories: ["Conference League"]
---

# Damjan Pavlović: “We respect Arda, but we’re not changing our game”
![YouTube player](https://i0.wp.com/i.ytimg.com/vi/m6sel1S2xB0/maxresdefault.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1)

Kauno Žalgiris – the last remaining Lithuanian club in European qualifications this season – are approaching tonight’s Conference League third qualifying round first leg against Bulgarian Arda Kardzhali with quiet confidence and clear focus, as head coach **Eivinas Černiauskas** and defender **Damjan Pavlović** addressed the media in a pre-match press conference marked by mutual respect and readiness.

With two qualifying rounds already behind them, the Lithuanian side are determined to keep their European run alive. “_The further we go in this competition, the more we want to stay in it_,” Černiauskas said, underscoring both the sporting ambition and emotional significance of their European campaign. “_We’re preparing seriously. The opponent is a bit different than the teams we faced before_.”

That opponent—Arda, currently a rising force in Bulgarian football—is known for its tactical balance and physical edge. According to Černiauskas, they present a more complete challenge. “_It’s a strong, quality side with good individual players and a disciplined structure. We expect a physical game but also tactical finesse,_” he said. “_They’re not just muscle—they know how to play._”

Pavlović echoed those sentiments, describing Arda’s style as “strong and fast,” comparing their mentality to what he experienced in Serbian football. “_We analyzed them. We’re ready. The most important thing is to play our game, stick to our plan, and not change too much because of who we’re facing._”

In a subtle warning, Černiauskas also pointed out the emotional intensity Arda bring to the pitch. “_We expect provocations. They have hot-headed players who are aggressive in attack and defense—plenty of shouting, plenty of noise. So mental preparation is just as important as tactics_,” he added, noting that his squad must be psychologically composed.

The team’s condition appears solid heading into the match. While some players are managing minor knocks following a packed domestic schedule, Černiauskas confirmed that “everyone is ready and able to play.” He emphasized the unique motivation European nights bring:

> “These matches matter more than domestic games. The players feel it.”

For Pavlović, the European experience has been transformative. “_You can see the team growing. Not just on the field, but as a big family. Playing against different styles and mentalities really helps us_,” he said. “_But we stay humble, we go game by game._”

> As Kauno Žalgiris aim to take a third step toward the group stage, the club is also feeling the swell of local support. Černiauskas praised the growing crowds in Kaunas and beyond: “People are coming from other cities. It’s becoming something bigger than just a football match.”

Kaunas ultras group, who made headlines with their fiery away support in Iceland, have helped turn these matches into full-fledged football occasions. “_It creates a real football atmosphere—with fans, with passion. It’s a special moment for our players to show what they can do,_” said Černiauskas. “_I always tell them before games: bring joy to the people who came to see you_.”