Švento after UCL draw: We expect tough away game
4.8.2017, Redakce
PRAHA - Dušan Švento is the only player who remembers Slavia competing in the 2007/08 Chympions League. Now the sewn-ones will face APOEL in their attempt to qualify into the group stage again. "The Play-off games are extremely important and the smallest thing could decide about the outcome," knows our midfielder.
Dušan Švento: We expect tough away game
“We expect very tough away game. Because of the hot weather and because of the atmosphere on the stadium in Nicosia. But every game is open in current football and I see the positives. The Play-off games are extremely important and the smallest thing could decide about the outcome. We need to focus on ourselves to be prepared and to qualify for the Champions League,” Slavia halfback says.
“I did not want to play Olympiacos or APOEL, for me both Greek and Cypriot opponents are really tough. But we can’t choose now. I have played AC Omonia back in Salzburg times, the atmosphere is always explosive and they are good not only home,” added Švento, who is the only player in current Slavia squad who experienced the last UEFA Champions League group stage in 2007.
Manager Jaroslav Šilhavý: BATE game experience will help a lot
“We did not wish Olypiacos to be our opponent but even though APOEL could seem to be more acceptable opponent we will approach the game with great respect,” Slavia manager admits.
“I remember APOEL playing in Jablonec recently. They have made a great impact on me. They overplayed the home side and could score many goals. We are going to watch their game on Wednesday, the Supercup. They start the league on the following weekend,” Šilhavý continued.
“It is always good to score in the first leg away and we would like to do the same at home to make an advantage. I believe BATE games were a giant experience for us. You can’t get it anywhere else and I believe that those games will help our players a lot,” concluded our coach.
