A fire of questions

Maciej Skorza met with the media representatives ahead of the match of the III round of Champions League qualifications. What did the coach have to say before the game with FC Basel?

The mental sphere

I hope that the team can bear the mental heave of the match. Tomorrow we will get the answer to that question, however I do not see faintheartedness among my players. We know how good of a team Basel is, but we also want to check ourselves and see where our place is. The fans will be an additional motivation for us tomorrow. It cannot be forgotten that this is the kind of game that can put our club on to another, higher level. It's a unique opportunity, especially that it isn't often that you compete for the Champions League. We will give it all for the match to end in a result advantageous for us.

FC Basel

The team from Basel fulfills their tactical plans. In addition, they have very skilled players. It's hard to find weaknesses among the Swiss team. The offensive is worth complimenting, especially the 18 year-old Embolo. FC Basel plays open football and they do well in positional attack. We expect them to want to push us back to defense. We know how well-organized the Swiss are and that their culture and maturity of play makes it hard to force them to make a mistake.

The starting lineup for tomorrow

For sure I don't have Dawid Kownacki nor Paulus Arajuuri at my disposal. When it comes to Linetty I still have to consult with the doctor to know the answer. Ahead of the match with FC Basel I have two question marks in my starting lineup. I will take a decision after I talk to my staff.

I won't deny that we have to do something extra to win the match. We want to surprise the opponent. I a match like this each player had to add something unique to the team and fully reveal his talent, potential and abilities. However, what's even more important is for each player to think about the team.

The favorite of the clash

I don't remember the last time that we havent been the favorites. Definitely we are not the favorites now. It might make it a bit easier for us to play, however I don't want the players to use it as an explanation. I think that the fact that we are not the favorites might make it less difficult to play open football. I expect my team to show its best and the player to fulfill the tactical plans in 100 percent.

The atmosphere at INEA Stadium

I count on the support of our fans. We enjoy playing in Poznan where the fans are always loud and they never stop to support us. During the match there will be moments of crisis and the support might be the key to achieving a good result. For sure the fans are our additional advantage.