Carrera: “We are not afraid of Olympiacos” 

The two respective head coaches, Massimo Carrera and Pedro Martins, shared their expectations for the Super League duel between AEK and Olympiacos.

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For AEK, this game represents the perfect chance to finally snap their 12-game winless streak in Super League games, whereas for Olympiacos, victory is required to maintain their one-point advantage over PAOK in first position. Enduring a tough campaign, AEK are a huge 13 points behind Olympiacos in third spot, but the Enosis are gradually getting back on form under the leadership of Massimo Carrera. Olympiacos, for their part, have been consistent performers throughout the campaign so far.

Carrera isn’t afraid of taking on Olympiacos:

Preparations for facing Olympiacos: “The fact is that we have only had two days to prepare for this game. Nevertheless, this is a derby, and these games are always different. We will try to give the fans the joy which they deserve.”

Whether Nelson Oliveira is ready to play: “Yes, he’s training and is available for the game, just like all of our healthy players.”

The absence of Ruben Semedo for Olympiacos: “As I always say, 11 players will face 11 players from a different team. Someone else will take his place.”

His thoughts on Olympiacos’ strength: “They are a team which has UEFA Champions League quality. That says it all. We respect Olympiacos, but we are not afraid of them.”

Performance of Damian Szymanski in Volos: “He was excellent, it was as though he has been playing for AEK for a long time. Damian understood our tactics, intensity and movement, he will help us a lot moving forward.”

Factor of conceding a late goal against Volos on Wednesday: “If we would have conceded that goal 10 minutes earlier, it would have been a lot more difficult for us. That’s what I told my players.”

Pedro Martins revealed that Daniel Podence is available to compete against AEK at the OAKA:

How AEK have changed with Massimo Carrera in charge: “In comparison to earlier on in the season, AEK are a lot more solid in defence, they don’t concede a lot of goals. The biggest change is that Carrera has made them become a solid team at the back. It will be a tough, balanced game. The team which makes the fewest mistakes will win.”

If Daniel Podence will play: “All of our players are available except Felipe Bruno who has a problem. Daniel is one of the players who can be used tomorrow.”

Possible return of Ahmed Hassan: “Let’s talk about who can play against AEK. Ahmed won’t play, so there’s no point speaking about him. Hassan, Youssef El Arabi and Hillal Soudani all have different characteristics.”

The planned system against AEK: “Our system is to take advantage of the weaknesses which AEK do have. This is what we will try to do. It will be a very balanced match on Sunday.”

Ruben Semedo suspended: “It was an unfortunate incident. The main thing is that he apologised, for us the case is closed and we have left it in the past. We hope that it doesn’t repeat itself for the sake of football.”

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