Paphos coach Ricardo Sa Pinto, ahead of the first match against Dinamo City in the Europa League playoffs.
The Portuguese coach spoke about the challenges his team is expected to face on the field, as well as the need for a positive result on the road. He also discussed strengthening the roster, noting that the club is open to making signings.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Speaking on behalf of the players, Ivan Sunic emphasized that the new season presents a different challenge, with the team now featuring new faces on the roster, while also emphasizing that everyone shares the same hunger for success.
Here’s a detailed look at everything that was said
Ricardo Sa Pinto
Opening remarks: “I accept being labeled the favorite. The playing field isn’t in great shape—it’s quite dry—and I hope it will be fixed by tomorrow. I’m expecting a tough game; Dinamo is a team that fights, runs, and plays with passion. We have to be ready for anything and play smart.”
On transfers: “There’s a willingness to strengthen the squad. I speak every day with Mr. Giareetta and the president. However, right now we’re focused on the matches, which are absolutely crucial. The team is making progress, and that’s evident in our performances. We’re getting better with every game. Sure, we’ve been unlucky with injuries, but that’s no excuse. When reinforcements arrive, we’ll be ready to discuss it.”
On Dynamo City and the playing field: “As for our opponent, they’re a good team. Of course, this kind of field works in their favor, because they like to run and battle. For us, we have to be prepared for that kind of game tomorrow. It’s going to be a real battle.
We finally want to get a good result on the road. We have to be strong in one-on-one situations, on first and second balls.
Of course, our style of play is to always try to play soccer, keep possession, and control the opponent whenever we can. We have our own playing identity.
But we need to understand that sometimes we have to be smart and know how to handle these kinds of games. This is the first leg of this matchup, and our main goal for tomorrow is to get a good result.”
Ivan Sunić
His take: “Whatever we’ve achieved in the past is now in the past. For us, it’s a new season, and we have some new players on the team. The most important game is the next one. We’re not influenced by anything; we have the same hunger.”
