Pafos FC coach eyes comeback against Hajduk Split, calls first-leg score 'unrealistic'
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Pafos FC coach Ricardo Sa Pinto believes the 2-0 first-leg deficit against Hajduk Split in their Europa League qualifier is not a true reflection of the match.
- Sa Pinto hopes for a comeback at home, emphasizing the need for efficiency and scoring goals to advance.
- He also noted that the transfer window's ongoing nature affects team composition, but his focus remains on the upcoming match, urging fan support.
Pafos FC coach Ricardo Sa Pinto is aiming for a dramatic comeback against Hajduk Split in their Europa League qualifier, despite a 2-0 first-leg loss.
The 2-0 result from the first match was not realistic.
Sa Pinto, a Portuguese coach, stated that the initial scoreline did not accurately represent the game. "The 2-0 result from the first match was not realistic," he said. He stressed the importance of efficiency and scoring multiple goals to overturn the deficit at home.
We must be efficient and make a comeback.
He acknowledged that the team is not yet complete due to the ongoing transfer window, with further changes expected. However, Sa Pinto asserted that his and his players' focus is solely on the upcoming match. He called upon Cypriot fans to attend in large numbers and support the team, expressing confidence in their ability to achieve a turnaround.
As a coach, I would like the season to start only when the transfer window closes.
"Believe that we can turn the result around and give us support in this fight," Sa Pinto urged. He highlighted the team's past achievements and passion for the club, promising a spirited performance. The coach also mentioned that the team has a clear plan for the second leg.
Believe that we can turn the result around and give us support in this fight.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.