Maccabi’s European campaign continues, as today (Monday) the team departed for Malta ahead of the Europa League 3rd qualifying round 1st leg away to Hamrun Spartans at the Tony Bezzina stadium in Paola.
Before their departure, the team held a press conference and training session at the Kiryat Shalom complex. The team then proceeded to Ben Gurion Airport, where they bordered a chartered flight to Malta.
Ahead of the vital match, Maccabi’s Head Coach, Zarko Lazetic spoke at a Press Conference this morning and said:
“‘Favorites’ is just a word. They are the champions of Malta. We have great respect, especially for a national champion, no matter which country they are from. They beat Zalgiris, who are also champions, and also played against Dynamo Kiev, who are a
strong opponent. We know what we need to do, and we will give it our best.”
“They have a very interesting team. They try to exploit space and even caused Dynamo Kiev problems in the first leg. We need to be smart. In many ways, they are similar to Pafos. We analyzed them well and will need to be especially smart with the ball in order to find solutions and stay focused. This is a challenge.”
Following today’s draw for the Playoffs, both clubs know that the winner of this tie will face the loser in the Champions League 3rd qualifying round tie between Dynamo Kiev (Ukraine) and Pafos (Cyprus).
