Lithuanian champions Kauno Žalgiris will make their UEFA Champions League debut on Tuesday when they host Kosovan champions Drita in the first leg of the opening qualifying round at Darius and Girėnas Stadium. Ahead of the match, head coach Željko Sopić expressed confidence in his squad while acknowledging the quality of the opposition.
“We are playing against the champions of Kosovo, and we know they have kept largely the same squad together for the past two or three years,” Sopic said. “They are a strong team and reached the UEFA Conference League phase last season. On the other hand, we are playing at home, so we will give everything to beat them. It won’t be an easy match, but the most important thing for me is that all of my players are fit and we have no injuries. I believe in my boys.”
The Croatian coach also highlighted what he considers to be Drita’s biggest strengths. “Teams from Kosovo and Albania are usually very aggressive, physically strong in duels and press their opponents immediately. It is a quality team. If you come from Kosovo and have played in the Conference League group stage, then you have quality. But the most important thing is how we play. With all due respect to Drita, I am optimistic because we are getting better every day.”
Sopic has only recently taken charge of Kauno Žalgiris but believes the team is making steady progress. “I have been here for around eight or nine days, and I hope we improve with every training session. I believe we will be ready for tomorrow’s match.”
The coach also called on supporters to create a strong atmosphere at Darius and Girėnas Stadium. “I would be very grateful if a large number of fans came to the stadium. We all know it is easier to play with strong support behind you, so we will need their energy.”
Reflecting on his first days with the club, Sopic praised his players’ attitude and work ethic. “When a new coach arrives, every player wants to prove that he deserves to play, so I have no problems with the squad. It was very important that we had time to train before this match because the number of games will now increase. When you play every 72 hours, there is very little time for training. I was a player myself, so I know exactly how it works. The most important thing is that everyone stays in good condition.”
The first leg between Kauno Žalgiris and Drita kicks off on Tuesday at 19:00 local time in Kaunas.
