Riga FC head coach Adrián Guľa has made it clear: the club’s goal this season isn’t just progress—it’s qualification for the UEFA Conference League group stage. Speaking ahead of their second-round qualifying first leg, Guľa emphasized the importance of focus, professionalism, and steady ambition as the Latvian side begins its European journey.
“This is the dream. This is the plan,” Guľa stated. “Not just to win one game, but to reach the group stage. That’s our goal.”
His belief is grounded in experience. Having managed clubs in both Champions League and Conference League qualifiers, the Slovak coach knows what it takes. For him, starting in the second round presents both a challenge and an opportunity—one that Riga FC must seize if it hopes to lift Latvia’s UEFA coefficient and raise the club’s stature.
“I’ve started in the first round and gone out. That’s why I believe it’s best to begin as late as possible,” Guľa responded to a question about whether he would not have preferred to start Conference League qualifications from the first round, noting how late entry into qualification rounds reflects a stronger club profile across Europe. “I prefer to start from the league stage directly“, he added in good humour.
Head coach Adrián Guľa offered a measured assessment of Dila Gori, highlighting their consistent attacking philosophy and technical strengths. “They try to play attacking football, use strong wingers—especially the right one, who is very fast—and have quality midfielders,” he observed. Drawing from extensive video analysis and live scouting in Luxembourg, Guľa emphasized the Georgian side’s characteristic flair and individual skill: “They love the ball, they love the dribble. That’s their mentality.” Acknowledging the need for discipline and intensity, he concluded, “We must be very strong tomorrow and in the return leg—we have the opportunity to beat them, and that’s a big motivation.”
Defender El Bachir Ngom echoed the sense of purpose. “We have big expectations—not just to win games, but to reach the group stage,” he said. “We’re working hard, building a strong team, and taking it game by game.”
Despite a recent draw against Daugavpils breaking their long winning streak, Guľa brushed off concerns about form, pointing instead to the team’s resilience. “We fought to the end,” he said, referencing their attitude. “It showed the mentality we need in Europe—never satisfied with a draw, always playing for the win.”
With the squad fully fit and 24 players available for selection, Guľa stressed that every detail matters—tactically, mentally, and emotionally. “These are the games you work for all year. Players must feel that,” he said. “But balance is key—we must be focused, not over-motivated, and deliver a top-level performance.”
Riga FC enters this European campaign with ambition sharpened by past lessons and disappointments, but with a clear target in sight. As Guľa put it: “True is in the pitch. We have our ambition—but now we must prove it.”
