Mariusz Jop before #ZAWWIS: We are positive about this match
Before the team left for Bydgoszcz for the 1/8 finals of the STS Polish Cup, a press conference was held with the participation of coach Mariusz Jop.
Before the team's departure to Bydgoszcz for the 1/8 final match of the STS Polish Cup, a press conference was held with coach Mariusz Jop. The White Star's coach answered journalists' questions before the match against Zawisza.
Does the coach plan any changes to the lineup for tomorrow's match? "There will definitely be changes. We know that this match won't be a walk in the park. Cup matches have their own rules, and surprises often happen. We know that we simply have to treat this match like a league game, meaning with full commitment, adhering to our philosophy, but also taking into account the opponent's style of play. We are certainly well-prepared for this match and we're going there to win." - said coach Jop.
What are the opponent's strengths? "As always before every match, there was an analysis, which was shared with the players. We practiced certain things, but of course not everything - due to having less time than usual. Besides the general analysis, players receive individual specifications of each opponent player, regarding what they should pay attention to. Zawisza is definitely a team that is effective in defense, as they have conceded the fewest goals in their group. They are quite effective in positional attack. They often try to do this, they like to keep possession. Like most teams, they also look for opportunities from set pieces. Of course, we have many more details and also information on which areas we want to exploit when it comes to our attacking. We are prepared as always for every upcoming match." - described the Wisła coach.
How did your staff's work look like in preparing for the next two matches? "Regarding personnel, of course there's a main assumption. A main plan. However, we know that sometimes this plan needs to be adjusted. We are ready for such adjustments. Of course, I have the starting eleven and potential changes in mind. We'll see what tomorrow's match brings. Sometimes you have to react on the fly." - said the coach.
So far, you've avoided opponents from the Ekstraklasa. However, there are voices saying that due to the lack of seeding in the Polish Cup, this system is unfair. "I think that's also the charm of the Polish Cup, that teams from lower leagues can face a first-league or Ekstraklasa team. Probably everyone has their own perspective on whether it's fair or unfair. Not everything in football is fair. However, being a favorite and playing in a higher league always has to be confirmed on the field, because as I said before, cup matches are specific. It's one match, a lot can happen. Lower-ranked teams are characterized by immense determination. It's a big celebration, and it will be the same tomorrow in Bydgoszcz. A lot of fans will come, and we are certainly aware that it will be a difficult match for us." - he said.
How is Angel Rodado doing in terms of fatigue at this stage of the season? "As I said before, for those who played the most, it's quite natural that they feel it in their bodies. To answer the question, there's a chance he might start on the bench." - replied the Wisła coach.
Plans for the transfer window. "Of course, we are discussing this and have discussed it before, but I think now our thoughts and focus are on the nearest opponent and then on the next league match, so we will probably come back to this topic more strongly after these two matches." - concluded Mariusz Jop.