Konstantinos Sotiriou, the Cypriot international defender for Korona Kielce, gave an interview to “SPOR FM 95.0.”
He discussed the national team’s performance in the Nations League, emphasized that attendance at the last match was dismal, and commented on the presence of the “new” players.
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He also spoke about his team in Poland and shared his views on the Cypriot league.
Here are his comments in detail
On the team’s performance in the Nations League: “It was the first time we played in this format, with four matches, and it was more enjoyable. The team is coming together more. We’re on track to meet our goals. The coach set a goal of finishing in the top two spots. In the first two games, we didn’t get what we deserved based on our performance. In the last game, Marcus had a fantastic performance and earned us three points. We managed to get six points, and that was like redemption. All the players want to make the national team. We’re a family. Mantzios certainly plays a key role, but if the players aren’t committed, things will stay the same. It’s a combination of factors.”
On attendance: “I think attendance at the game against Latvia was terrible. Maybe it was the day, maybe the stadium. I’m not the one to answer that. In Latvia—and elsewhere—the stadiums were packed. Let the fans make the effort. We’re obligated to give our all for our national team. People care about the national team, but they don’t show up. I don’t know—maybe they’d rather do something else.”
On the next two games: “Mathematically, with two wins we’ll finish first. We’re going for six points in the next games.”
On the toughest opponent: “Kristović was the toughest opponent. Montenegro has good players.”
On the tie between Armenia and Montenegro: “The tie was a surprise for the Montenegrins.”
On the national team’s roster and how far it can go: “We have good players, but we also have some key absences. We can finish at least in second place. I think good work is being done with the national team. The most important thing is consistency.”
On the “newcomers” to the national team: “Edwards needs no introduction. He’s shown what kind of player he is. Tsaroulla showed some good qualities. Konomis was very good. He played in a different position and scored.”
On the many national team players competing abroad: “This is the first time this has happened with the national team, and it’s a positive development. My advice to the players is to go play abroad.”
On Korona: “I’m happy at Korona. The stadiums are packed. I don’t think I’ll be returning to Cyprus anytime soon. The goal is to finish in the top five and qualify for Europe.”
On Stepinski: “He’s scored six goals so far and is the second-leading scorer.”
On the league in Cyprus: “In Cyprus, there are always eight teams vying for a spot in the top six, so two will be left out. I think the same teams will be competing for the top three spots. Aris is a big question mark. It’s still too early to draw any conclusions.”
