The Greek national team is back in Nations League action, with matches against the Netherlands (Nov. 13) and Serbia (Nov. 16) to close out the group stage of the tournament. Ivan Jovanović set the tone for the upcoming matches in an interview with the Hellenic Football Federation (EPO) channel.
Here is what he said in detail:
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
On the matches against the Netherlands and Serbia: “We have these last two games left. I think we’re in a very good position in the standings, but it’s absolutely crucial that we perform well in both of these final matches. This is something we’ve built up over the course of the first matches. It gives us the opportunity to potentially set higher goals than we expected at the start of the season. It’s important that we perform well—and perhaps even better than in previous games. We now have more experience with our opponents’ capabilities. Of course, without overestimating ourselves, but always with a positive outlook on the goals that may arise from these games. It’s important that we remain just as focused so that we can finish this in the best possible way.”
On Koutsoupia’s call-up: “In recent years, there have been quite a few new faces on the national team. There are Greek players who play in other countries; we keep an eye on them, and when we feel the time is right to give them a chance, we’ll do so. Especially in certain positions where we may have a greater need, particularly in midfield. “He’s a young player who’s been trying his luck abroad for quite some time now; he’s working hard and is performing at a good level. I believe he deserves this opportunity, and that’s why he’s with us.”
*photo source: KYPE
