The Under-19 squads European Journey continues when they play Sigma Olomouc on Wednesday at 17:00 Israel time in the Czech Republic. The match will be the first leg of a two legged UEFA Youth Champions League tie for Maccabi “Shachar” after they disposed of Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala in the first round. Head Coach Guy Tzarfati’s team continued their preparations in earnest for the contest as they held their final training session ahead of the match at the Andruv Stadion.

After arriving in Prague earlier in the day, the team travelled to the city of Olomouc and following a short rest, the squad went to the stadium for their training session as Tzarfati looked ahead to tomorrow’s contest:

“We’re playing against a team that also advanced to the stage and they did so admirably. This will be a tough match but we enjoy challenges. I hope that we can record a good result in the first half which is in essence the first leg.”

Recording a good result in the first leg:
“Every time when there is a two legged tie it’s always important to get a good result in the first leg. Of course this is an away match and it’s always good to play the decisive match at home, but what’s important right now is the first leg and what will be on the pitch here. I hope we can bring home a good result.”

About Sigma Olomouc:
“They are a very good team and have four players who also play for the first team with them who are playing especially in the Champions League contests. They are quality players, string and have proper technique. They also have some dynamic attackers who scored in the first two games. We will have to put an emphasis on set pieces as their is a gap between us and other cubs in Europe. However, we can counter this tactically and with determination. Those are some of the factors we need to bring into the match.”

Final thoughts:
“The hope is that we can play well, look good and bring home a good result so that the tie can be decided back in Israel.”