JAKARTA - Georgia coach Willy Sagnol is optimistic that his team can give a surprise in the last 16 match against Spain on Sunday, June 30 at the Dologne Stadium, although he still remembers the previous 1-7 defeat.
Sagnol was excited when he spoke at a press conference at the Cologne Stadium, discussing various aspects of the match and the condition of his team.
"The 1-7 defeat to Spain was a very difficult moment for us. However, we learned a lot from that match. In life, we have to overcome difficulties and be able to rise. This team has shown the ability to rise from the defeat," Sagnol said with optimism.
He is now confident because his team's condition is in the best form and ready to face Spain. "It was a very emotional moment when we made it here. We didn't expect this. We were very happy, although physically this is another challenge. We would be better off having longer rest time, but we are ready. Emotional factors help us to stay strong," he added.
Talking about his opponent, Sagnol recognized his team as the underdog in this match. "Spain is the best team so far and has not conceded. They have quality in many lines. However, in football, any outcome can happen. Even though we lost four of them in the last game, we remain optimistic," said Sagnol.
In this fight, he has prepared a strategy to reduce La Furia Roja. Defending is one of his choices considering the opponent who will dominate the game in midfield.
"It can't be every day asking players to play freely and suddenly change it. I attach great importance to defensive strategies, but football is not math or chess. We have to play with emotions. Motivating this team is very easy; just being here is enough. From me, they need calm. We have to find balance. For me, we have won the Euros, "explained Sagnol.
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Sagnol hopes his strategy will bear fruit maximally and Georgia will make a surprise that rocked Europe. "We can't just survive. We want to show Europe and the world that we are good at controlling the ball. We have to play our own way," he stressed.
On the other hand, he also pays attention to the advantages and speeds of Lamina Yamal cs. on the wing. "When facing Spain, danger comes from all over. We know Nico and Lamine Yamal who are still very young. They provide freshness after the (Lionel) Messi and Cristiano (Ronaldo) eras. Spain also has quality Rodri-like players. But we also have talented players and we are ready to put up a fight," Sagnol said closing the press conference.
With passion and confidence, Sagnol hopes his team can give their best and may surprise Spain in the upcoming matches.
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