«We go to Giannina to win»
The first goal of the season has already been achieved, as the “Double-Headed Eagle” are already in the UEFA Europa League group stage. Igor Tudor is preparing his troops for the tough away encounter against PAS Giannina. The coach of PAOK spoke to Novasports TV about the Zosimades match and the team’s journey so far.
Here is what the Croatian tactician said:
On the European journey of PAOK so far and how he experienced it:
«It was a period of many ups-and-downs. It’s been already two months since we started working and had our share of hardships and problems. It may seem easy now, but it was far from it. Many players left, others were injured, we signed quite a few footballers, there was also the issue of Lucas, the internationals returned later… Many problems. But in the end I believe we did a good job. We are very happy for the club, the city and the fans that we will be present in the UEFA Europa League group stage. Congratulations to my players«.
On the draw of the UEFA Europa League group stage:
«We were not that lucky, to be honest. We had a tough draw. FC Krasnodar were third in last season’s Russian league. Borussia Dortmund are among the competition’s favourites, while Qäbälä FC eliminated Panathinaikos. It won’t be easy, but that was the hand we were dealt. We will do our best«.
On the encounter against PAS Giannina:
«This is the last game with players still missing. Several footballers joined us later and were unable to compete with us. We will be ready for PAS Giannina. We will prepare accordingly and travel there to win applying our style of football«.
