Following APOEL’s 6-0 victory over AEL in the second matchday, the coaches of both teams spoke at the press conference.
First, Nikos Papadopoulos expressed his satisfaction with the victory and noted that he would let the team celebrate for one day, after which they would resume their hard work. He also addressed the possibility of signing a new striker, noting that no further moves would be made unless the player showed potential for growth.
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On the other hand, Hugo Martins initially apologized to the fans for the team’s performance and the result. He then emphasized that there were some things his team could control and others they could not, while noting how difficult it was to play for an extended period while down a man.
Here are his comments in detail
Nikos Papadopoulos
Initial comments on Gomis and Čataković: “I want to wish Gomis and Čataković a speedy recovery. It was all very sad, and I hope it never happens again.”
On the match: “It was a very difficult game; we worked hard, and my players rose to the occasion on the field. In the first half, we dominated; we didn’t let the opponent create any chances, and we did the same in the second half, especially after the red card. Wins and losses are never far apart; I’ll let us enjoy this for one day, but if we rest on tonight’s result, we might pay the price. I’d like to thank the team’s fans very much for their support, and starting tomorrow we’ll continue working toward the future—with the new players, we’ll get even better.”
On transfers and whether a forward will be signed: “I have no intention of making another transfer. I trust both Pedroso and Stavros Georgiou. The only scenario we’d consider is signing a player with potential. That said, I don’t want to shortchange Stavros by not giving him opportunities. The return of Pieros and Mancini also plays a role; we expect them to be back with us after the break.”
Hugo Martins
“I apologize to the fans for our performance and the result. It was tough; there are some things we can control as a team, and others we can’t. We started off balanced, made a mistake, and paid the price. Then came the second goal, which was beyond our control. He asked us to change our approach in the second half, but when you’re playing 11 against 10 on this field against APOEL, it’s very difficult.”
