NEC Nijmegen coach proud after draw, declares team favorite for Champions League qualification

NEC Nijmegen coach Jan de Visser expressed satisfaction and pride following his team's scoreless draw against Olympiacos in Piraeus, declaring his side the favorite to advance in their Champions League qualifier.

Despite a hesitant start in the first 20 minutes, De Visser noted that his team created several good opportunities throughout the match. He acknowledged the visible fatigue in both teams as the game progressed, suggesting that both sides were content with the 0-0 outcome. "It showed that the teams were happy with the 0-0 after a certain point. There was fatigue," he stated.

De Visser revealed the unexpected departure of player Kaisou Sano, who is reportedly heading to PSV, learning the news just before the game. "Shocking to lose a player like Kaisou Sano at our breakfast! He will have... hiccups tonight! Even for that, I am proud of my team tonight," he said, highlighting the team's ability to perform under challenging circumstances.

Looking ahead to the second leg, De Visser confidently asserted his team's favorite status. "Now we are the favorites, haha! We really want to qualify for the Champions League and will give everything for qualification," he declared. He also expressed his pleasure in competing against a team like Olympiacos in such an impressive stadium, acknowledging his team's solid performance.