"Kauno Žalgiris" coach sees positive performance despite Faroe Islands challenges

Ž. Sopičius, the coach of "Kauno Žalgiris," expressed a positive assessment of his team's performance in the Faroe Islands, despite acknowledging on-field frustrations. "I have to say, the result is positive. Of course, I was unhappy and emotional on the bench during the match, but it's not easy to play on this artificial turf," Sopičius stated.

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I have to say, the result is positive. Of course, I was unhappy and emotional on the bench during the match, but it's not easy to play on this artificial turf.

He elaborated on the challenging conditions, noting the opponent's playing style. "This pitch is one of the smallest I've ever seen. They play with long passes and second balls, so you have to fight for them. In the first half, we dominated and played good football without real chances, because in the final third of the pitch, you have to create something special, and they kept 10 players behind the ball." Sopičius added that the team aimed not to overcommit to attacking, aware of the opponent's long-pass strategy.

Despite the tactical battle, Sopičius remains optimistic about advancing. "We have to stay together because now we will play in our stadium, and I remain positive that we will manage to overcome this stage. It is also very important to me that we will have five training days," he said. The coach also commented on the opponents, stating they did not surprise him as he anticipated their defensive approach and counter-attacking opportunities.

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This pitch is one of the smallest I've ever seen. They play with long passes and second balls, so you have to fight for them.

Defender Antonas Tolordava echoed the coach's sentiments. "I think everything is positive because it's not easy for any team to play here, especially on artificial grass. The weather conditions were also different, as it was windy throughout the match." Tolordava highlighted the opponent's distinct style, relying on set pieces and long throws, and the smaller pitch size. "So I think, yes, the result is positive because we will have the second game at home, and now everything will be in our hands," he concluded.

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We have to stay together because now we will play in our stadium, and I remain positive that we will manage to overcome this stage.

Both Sopičius and Tolordava acknowledged the team's efforts in the first half to press the opponent, recognizing that football sometimes requires a more measured approach. They had studied the opponent's game through video analysis and were prepared for their tactics.

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I think everything is positive because it's not easy for any team to play here, especially on artificial grass. The weather conditions were also different, as it was windy throughout the match.