Coach assesses "Kauno Žalgiris" level difference after heavy defeat

The coach of "Kauno Žalgiris," Željko Sopičius, candidly assessed the stark difference in team levels after his side's 3-0 defeat to "Bešiktaš." Sopičius congratulated the winning team, stating, "All in all, "Bešiktaš" was the better team." He acknowledged that the 90 minutes were long for his team, admitting they knew the challenge beforehand. Despite the scoreline, Sopičius expressed pride in his players' effort throughout the match. "I know you are not used to hearing a coach who is proud of his team when they lose 0:3, but you have to understand that these are completely different levels of teams – we are at level three, and "Bešiktaš" is at level 72," he explained. He regretted conceding goals from a corner and a penalty situation but reiterated that "Bešiktaš" was superior. "Kauno Žalgiris" will now compete in the UEFA Conference League. Defender Lirimas Kastrati also commented on the match, expressing happiness about his debut in the Europa League qualifiers. "The games were really tough because "Bešiktaš" is a very good team that also played with strong fan support," Kastrati said. He believes the team performed adequately and should be proud despite the loss. "It remains to work further and try to play the return match at home as best as possible. No matter what happens, we will always give our all," he added. "Kauno Žalgiris" is scheduled to play the return match against "Bešiktaš" at Dariaus and Girėnas Stadium on August 27.

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All in all, "Bešiktaš" was the better team.