Ahead of the Olympiacos vs. Rangers match at “Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium” (06/11, 19:45), marking the 4th round of the UEFA Europa League’s Group Phase, Olympiacos coach José Luis Mendilibar and goalkeeper Konstantis Tzolakis shared their thoughts.
Below, a detailed breakdown of the interview with the experienced Olympiacos coach and the Greek goalkeeper:
Is this game the most challenging compared to the matches Olympiacos has played so far, given the strength of the teams?
It’s true that every game is difficult, each with its own unique challenges. It’s always the small details that matter, and it doesn’t just depend on the opponent. We have an important, balanced match ahead of us. We want the win to secure, to some extent, our qualification. Our opponent also wants a victory, as this match is crucial for both teams’ future in the competition.
What is your opinion on Rangers, and what should your team be cautious of?
We have analyzed the opponent and watched some of their league and European games. They are in good form, but playing in Europe is different from playing in the league, and the same applies to us. I believe we share many similarities, with comparable results and situations. So, we know it will be a balanced match, as both teams are vying for progression to the next phase.
What does Olympiacos need to do to secure victory?
To win, we must score more goals than our opponent…
What is the status of Pirola and Rodinei?
You’ll see tomorrow…
Will you approach this game differently than the match against Malmo since it’s a home game? And what different elements do you expect from Rangers compared to Malmo?
Our game strategy does not change depending on the opponent. We always try to play the same way. Of course, opponents vary, and it will depend on how we approach the penalty area and how Rangers play, as their vertical play can make it difficult for us to enter their area frequently. Our goal is to push up and play high, just as we have in all our previous matches.
Having won the Europa League and last year’s Conference League, what continues to motivate you?
The motivation lies in each weekly match, as we take each game individually. This tournament holds special significance for me this year, as the final is in my home country. Our primary aim is to progress to the next stage, and, just like last year, we approach each game step-by-step, striving for the best possible outcome.
How do you feel about giving playing time to young players like Mouzakitis in a country where it’s not common practice, and seeing him now called up to the national team?
He’s really our ‘little one.’ As a coach, I don’t hand out opportunities; a player earns what he deserves on his own. He’s here because he’s shown he can perform and works hard consistently. His current level is a result of his own exceptional efforts.
How have the tragic events in Spain, with so many flood victims, affected you?
It’s truly sad and sometimes incomprehensible how such tragedies can happen in places equipped to handle such situations. The loss of life is something that can’t be undone. I hope and wish that the families affected find the strength to recover and return to their lives soon. We stand in solidarity with them.
Is there a specific player on Rangers who poses a particular threat?
Rangers are more of a team unit rather than relying on individual players. Generally, they pose a collective threat, but if we had to single someone out, it would be Černý, who is quite exceptional. Their wingers also push forward and create danger for the opposition. Overall, Rangers present a strong image and are an attacking team.
Tzolakis: “We’ve changed our standing in Europe”
Last season, you were at the press conference for the UEFA Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina. How do you think Olympiacos has evolved since then?
Following our game against Fiorentina, where we won the trophy, I believe the team’s standing has changed, and there are now higher expectations in Europe. This season, our objective is to reach the next phase, and we need to gather as many points as possible because it’s uncertain how many are required for qualification under the new tournament format. We need to win and reach nine points to get one step closer to advancing.
How do matches like these help you grow?
These matches certainly help me improve, as they do the entire team, especially in a European context. However, maturity on the field doesn’t necessarily relate to age. If a player can deliver what the coach asks for, it doesn’t matter if they’re 16 or 36.
What does Olympiacos need to do to win?
We need to play as we did in the previous two European matches, against Braga and Malmö. If we do that, I believe we’ll get the three points.
