Kauno Žalgiris coach faces emotional return to former club Dinamo Zagreb in Champions League qualifier

Željko Sopič, the coach of Lithuanian club Kauno Žalgiris, is returning to his hometown and former club, Dinamo Zagreb, for a crucial UEFA Champions League qualifier. The match, set to take place in Zagreb, carries significant emotional weight for Sopič, who has deep ties to the Croatian club.

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This is a very important day for all of us, and especially for me. I am returning to my city, my club, and to play a UEFA Champions League match. This day is not easy for me and my family, but I think we are ready for it. We will give our all to achieve a good result and keep realistic chances of advancing before the second leg.

Sopič, born in Zagreb, has a long history with Dinamo, having played in their youth system and later served as an assistant coach and interim head coach. He described the upcoming match as a "very important day for all of us, and especially for me." He admitted that the day is not easy for him or his family, but he is prepared to put his personal feelings aside to achieve a good result for Kauno Žalgiris.

"This is my job. I am on the other side now and will do everything to win tomorrow," Sopič stated, comparing the situation to being asked which child he loves more. He acknowledged that he will always be a Dinamo fan but stressed that on the field, they will be rivals. This internal conflict highlights the professional demands placed upon him.

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This is my job. I am on the other side now and will do everything to win tomorrow. It's like asking which child you love more. It is my job. I am on the other side now and will do everything to win tomorrow. That's it. Naturally, I will remain a Dinamo fan my whole life, but tomorrow we will be rivals. That's life.

Despite Dinamo Zagreb being the clear favorite in the tie, Sopič downplayed any added pressure on the home team. He believes that athletes always strive for victory, regardless of their perceived underdog or favorite status. "If you are an athlete, you want to achieve victories and be successful, so you try to win every match," he explained. Sopič also noted that his team has analyzed Dinamo's strengths and weaknesses, preparing to adapt to the challenging environment of the Maksimir Stadium.

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If you are an athlete, you want to achieve victories and be successful, so you try to win every match. It doesn't matter if you are considered an outsider or represent a top club. You always have to believe in what you do, believe in your work, and give your all, no matter who you play against.