What did the lost game against the European vice-champion show you?
The difference in the level of teams and players was easy to see. But I think that despite the 1-5 result there were some things in our game that we wanted to see. We also tried out a few players who wouldn’t have gotten a chance otherwise. We need to repeat such matches and regularly play with the strongest teams in Europe, so that the players can get a feel for it and meet top opponents. You can show them any pictures, but on the field they will find that they are lagging behind in movement, working with the ball or solving situations.
You were already losing in the second minute. Did he swing a quick conceded goal with the team?
I think that the first goal did not affect us as much as a worse start to the second half, when we opened the game unnecessarily. Then we didn’t capture the second half anymore and constantly let the opponent into quick counterattacks and chances. Although we conceded two cheap goals in the tenth minute, we were able to react to them and had a few interesting opportunities, including a goal, but then came another mistake and Portugal’s third goal. Then, tactically, our players didn’t quite do the things we wanted, like not letting the midfield go.
After Petr Pudhorecký’s goal for 1:2, did you believe that you could play an even match?
We had several interesting situations and we got into several opportunities, which, however, we did not solve correctly and accurately. I regret, for example, the moments when we lose the ball and the players stop playing because they are disappointed that it didn’t work out. When the opponent made a mistake, he immediately played again, while we beat ourselves up for a long time. Some ten minutes. If two or three players stop playing, you have no chance to succeed in such a match.
Because of the MOL Cup, you had to do without players from Sparta, Slavia or Baník, so nine young men made their debut in the round of 21 against Portugal. How much has it broadened your horizons?
We have nothing else left. We wanted to play the game and despite the team being put together on the fly this time, we played at a solid level. In addition, four players will leave after Portugal and another four will arrive. We were not in the optimal mood for the match, which is usually the case. We also tried other formations and the defensive phase sometimes looked like that. It is still too early for a detailed assessment, however, not a single newcomer entered the match with concerns, all were determined.
How different will Tuesday’s game against Norway be?
We are facing a different opponent playing in a different formation than Portugal. But he won’t be much weaker, I expect another tough match with another participant of the European Championship. From what I have seen of the Norwegian nomination, except for one or two names, the team is full. It will be another good test to fine-tune the squad ahead of the EURO and select the best players to consider.
