Maccabi “Shachar” Tel Aviv is preparing in earnest for Wednesday’s contest (17:00) against Czech side Sigma Olomouc in the return leg of second round Youth Champions League play. The match will be held at Ramle Stadium and although there is no charge for entrance, every fan must have a ticket to enter the facility which can be picked up at the north ticket windows.
Guy Tzarfati’s Under-19 squad was then drawn against Sigma Olomouc in the second round and drew 1:1 in the Czech Republic. The host’s took a 1:0 lead in the 68’ while Shalata found the equalizer in the 87’ as he made his way by three defenders and found the back of the goal from 13 meters.
Tzarfati spoke about his club’s upcoming match:
“We have been preparing for this match as we always do for every game, from the players to the staff. But we’ve also put an emphasis on the tactical side of the game.”
Advancing to the next round:
“We know that a goalless draw will be enough for us to advance but we are preparing for a match that will have goals and we are taking that into account. The most important thing in these types of matches is to come with a lot of confidence and not to think about the result in the first leg, but with the goal of advancing to the next stage.”
Adrenaline pumping:
“I don’t think that the right word is excitement but readiness. The players have paid attention to us from the tactical side and the mental side of the game. I’m sure that as the contest approaches the adrenaline will really start pumping and that’s how it’s supposed to be.”
Maccabi’s future on display:
“I want to send a message to all of the Maccabi fans to come out and support us and come see the young players. It’s a chance to see that there is a future for the young Israeli player, especially those at Maccabi Tel Aviv. I’d be happy to see the fans come out and watch us, I hope to see everyone in Ramle.”
This will be the team’s first official match since going on break nearly three weeks ago as they will look to advance to the Playoff Round of the competition. Should they move on, Maccabi “Shachar” would be drawn against a team that finished in 2nd place of the tournament’s group stages with the potential to face one of the well known teams from Europe.
