The Kazakhstan team’s coach, Rafael Urazbachtin, in remarks he made during the customary press conference.

The 47-year-old emphasized that he has watched and familiarized himself with the “Greens’” style of play and is ready to face it, while he predicted that the match will be a tight contest.

In detail: “We’ve played them twice before, both at home and on the road. I remember it ended in a draw. We know this team, just as they know us. Now they’re a very different team. As for the trip, we’re used to long journeys by now. We’re expecting a tight game tomorrow.”

On Omonia and the fact that Kairat is better prepared for the match: “We’ve been watching Omonia, and we’re ready. We know their style of play; they’ve lost a few players, but I don’t think that will change much. As for readiness, I don’t think it will play a major role. Omonia is playing at home and will have the crowd behind them, so I don’t think we’ll have an advantage.”

On the weather conditions: “I don’t think it will matter because we’re used to these temperatures in Kazakhstan, too.”

*photo source: AP