Filipe Coelho, the head coach of Universitatea Craiova, held a press conference ahead of the team’s Champions League preliminary match against ML Vitebsk.
The match is scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, at 20:00 and will be broadcast live on Prima Sport 1 and Digi Sport 1.
Coelho pointed out the advantage that the Belarusian team holds due to being in the midst of their season, having already played several league matches. Despite this, he expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure a positive result and take the first step towards qualification.
Should they advance past ML Vitebsk, Universitatea Craiova will face the winner of the matchup between Borac Banja Luka and Levski Sofia in the next round.
VIDEO | Filipe Coelho on ML Vitebsk – Universitatea Craiova: “We Must Find Solutions”
“This is our first match of the season against a strong opponent who has an established rhythm since they have already played 17 league games. They possess quality players, and we recognize the challenge ahead, yet we believe we can achieve a favorable outcome,” Coelho stated.
He emphasized the hard work put in during preparations, expressing satisfaction with the players’ performances. “Now comes the most important part, as we are prepared for this match. We need to find solutions. I am realistic; I know the opponents have developed a competitive rhythm, but that alone is not enough to guarantee victory. We aim to implement everything we have worked on during this period,” he added.
Coelho highlighted the strength of his squad, noting, “I am not focusing on individual players. We have moved past last season’s events; our focus is on building for the future. The new signings will support us, but what truly matters is that tomorrow night we showcase everything we have prepared and perform at our highest level. We are a group, a family. Our team’s success does not rely on one or two players but on the entire group, regardless of age or nationality.”
While acknowledging that some players may not be fully fit, he stressed the importance of those starting the match giving their all for victory. “We began building something back in November. Now we can focus more on the technical and tactical details, aspects we couldn’t fully address last season,” Coelho remarked.
He concluded, “Clearly, the new players will help us, but the collective effort is what matters most. I value both the seasoned players and the newcomers equally.”
The return leg between Universitatea Craiova and ML Vitebsk is set for July 15 at 20:30 at the Ion Oblemenco Stadium.
