Our U18 team continued its campaign with a home victory in Round 8 of the Youth League play-offs. After the game, head coach Goran Kopunovic shared his thoughts.

Our U18 team continued its campaign with a home victory in Round 8 of the Youth League play-offs. In a balanced match against Rapid Bucharest, we secured all three points thanks to a second-half goal. After the game, head coach Goran Kopunovic shared his thoughts.

The coach emphasized that he had expected a tough encounter.

– Before the match I already knew that Rapid Bucharest is one of the best teams in this league, so we prepared accordingly – said Goran Kopunovic.

He highlighted that the week’s work paid off on the pitch.

– The boys worked very hard all week, I got back everything I asked for before the match, and the goal we scored came exactly from a situation we had practiced several times and worked on thoroughly, and it worked – he explained.

The head coach expressed satisfaction with the team’s attitude and performance.

– I am completely satisfied with the players, their attitude, the character they showed, and the work they put into this match. The team played well, individual performances were good, especially in the attacking zone, where we managed to create a few chances, including clear-cut opportunities – he said.

He also underlined the stability of the defense.

– Besides our attacking play, the defense also performed well, we neutralized the opponent’s balls and reacted very well to every attack. I can only praise the defenders, because they positioned themselves very well, and as a result the opponent was unable to create dangerous situations – he stressed.

In closing, he spoke about the lessons learned and the upcoming period.

– It was a very useful match for us. The players learned a lot and gained valuable experience. It was a nice victory, but as I always say, we remain modest and move forward. A two-week break follows, which we will spend working and preparing for the next round. I am proud of my team and congratulate them once again – concluded Goran Kopunovic.

László Orbán
Photo: Zoltán Pál