The immense importance of tomorrow’s (October 31, 5:00 p.m.) derby between Apollon and Paphos was highlighted by the “blue-and-whites’” press officer, Fanourios Konstantinou, speaking to SuperSport 104.
Among other things, he noted that a positive result would boost the team’s standing in the standings and lift the team’s morale; he acknowledged the quality of the opponent and discussed the match dynamics.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Olympiacos: Everyone is on the roster for the game against Kifissia
The action continues in the ECOMMBX Basket League with Round 4
Here’s what he said in detail:
On the match against Paphos: “It’s very important for us to get this win. We’re facing an exceptional team that has proven its quality through its performance on the field and its successes. They are one of the best teams in the league and are very familiar with the “Alfamega” Stadium because of their European competition. However, we’re playing at our home stadium, in front of our fans, and that’s very important to us. We’re expecting a good turnout, and with their support—as well as a strong performance on the field—we’ll do our best to secure those three precious points.”
On the significance of the derby: “It’s truly a very important game for us, and not just for the three points. It’s significant in many ways, especially in terms of the standings and morale. I believe that from here on out, every game is absolutely crucial. When a team wants to win the championship, it can’t let the points gap widen.
This year’s league is particularly competitive, and as it progresses, it gets even tougher. We’re seeing that even the so-called “smaller” teams can give the big teams a run for their money. Therefore, every game is important in its own right, and the three points are valuable for all teams—both those at the top and those chasing them.
We need to stay focused, treat each game as a separate challenge, and give it our all. With a strong performance on the field and the support of our fans, we’ll do our best to secure the win.”
Paphos is a quality team, and we’re well aware of their capabilities. Games like these are often decided by the smallest details. They require passion, intensity, focus, and determination. These are elements that play a very important role in modern soccer and can determine the outcome of a match.
Paphos also possesses these qualities. We must be ready, impose our own style of play, limit our opponent’s strengths, and capitalize on the opportunities we create.”
On team news: “Danilo remains out, while Assunção returns from suspension. Leuvenberg is also back, while we’ll have to wait until the last minute to see exactly what happens with Rodrigues. We’ll assess his condition today. Right now, his chances of playing are 50-50.”
On fan attendance at the stadium: “We’re expecting a good turnout at the stadium, as the team is having a very strong run. We are absolutely certain that the overwhelming majority of our fans love the team and want to support it.
We have also issued a statement to that effect, in which we call on the Apollon community to stand by our team’s efforts, to avoid any provocation, as well as any form of racist or unsportsmanlike behavior.
We want to protect our home stadium, avoid potential penalties, and ensure that the team continues to play in front of its fans. The support of our fans is very important, and we need it at every game. We’re repeat offenders. That’s why we have to be especially careful, as any new incident could have consequences for our team.”
On the refereeing: “This is a difficult game, full of intensity and high stakes. The referee must be properly prepared to respond to the conditions of the match and handle difficult situations correctly. I believe that Mr. Antoniou is experienced and ready to meet the demands of the match, and we hope he will do a good job refereeing.”
