The head coach of Donetsk Shakhtar, Arda Turan, talked about what he expects from his team’s first match against the Greek Panathinaikos in the 3rd qualifying round of the Europa League, which will take place today in Athens.
Arda Turan. Photo — shakhtar.com"First of all, Panathinaikos is a very good team that is effective due to their wing crosses. Sometimes they aim to control the ball. Depending on the chosen intensity level, they can operate in different ways, and we prepare each of our players accordingly.
The tactics of Panathinaikos and the zones where the players will operate can change depending on the selected performers. And, of course, their full-backs often join the attack and make a lot of crosses. We are ready for all game situations. This is how we try to build our strategy for the match, as when facing a team like Panathinaikos, one must be ready for all aspects and elements of the game.
We will try to impose our game on the field, without stepping back. We understand this will not be easy, as Panathinaikos has experienced players who excel at movement. We will maintain this respect during the game. We will try to show our dynamics on the field and utilize our young players.
I think it will be a good match for both teams, but even if we gain an advantage in the first game, we understand that this confrontation consists of two matches, and we will try to distribute our strength over all 90 minutes accordingly,” Turan said at the pre-match press conference.
