Martins: “We have a great desire to win”

Ahead of the UEFA Europa League knockout tie between Olympiacos and Wolverhampton Wanderers in Piraeus, Pedro Martins and Mohamed Camara spoke to the press.

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Sadly, the build-up to the game has featured little talk about the football itself, with the coronavirus outbreak continuing to dominate the headlines. However, there is a game to be played, and it promises to be a tense, exciting duel as Olympiacos aim to take a big step towards the Europa League quarter-finals by beating Wolves inside an empty Karaiskakis Stadium. Olympiacos famously defeated Arsenal in the previous round.

Olympiacos boss, Pedro Martins, spoke about preparations:

Difficulty of playing without fans: “Of course, we don’t like the fact that we will play without our supporters in the stands, because they always create a wonderful atmosphere. We know how much they want to be at the arena. However, we have passion and desire to win. We understand the difficulties and the potential of the opponents.”

The coronavirus issue: “Panic doesn’t help anyone. We have to listen and take the advice which officials are making. Everyone must remain calm and take the required precautions. I wish our club president a speedy and successful recovery.”

Wolves not wanting to play the match: “We have to respect the decision to play without fans. At the same time, we understand the way the opponents are thinking. Nevertheless, all of us at Olympiacos were tested, and I don’t know if any other club in the world has done a similar thing. All results for the coronavirus are negative. We are following the protocol of principles which is in place.”

Whether playing without fans in Piraeus is an advantage for Wolves: “The Karaiskakis Stadium, when filled with supporters, gives us a lot of power. It is especially intimidating during the first 15 minutes of games. The possibility of playing without fans in England too? We will respect the decision made by the English authorities.”

Daniel Podence returning to Greece: “He is a great player who we know well. However, I hope that we can beat him tomorrow on the field.”

If Wolves are the strongest English club Olympiacos have faced: “It makes no sense to make comparisons. In terms of counter-attacking football, Wolves are better than the other English teams we have played against. Arsenal have world class players, but Wolves rely more on teamwork.”

Mohamed Camara also shared his expectations:

Difficulties of preparing for this game: “First of all, I would like to wish our president and everyone who is ill a speedy recovery. We are well prepared for this game, we trust our doctor who has done everything in order to make sure that we are healthy.”

If he likes playing against English clubs: “Most importantly, I simply want to help the team. It’s good for everyone if we progress and achieve success.”

Meeting Daniel Podence on the field again: “We don’t even know if he will play. We have to be focused on only our team, we’re not worried about them. Olympiacos are more experienced? That doesn’t mean anything. We will stick to our coach’s instructions.”

By: Shaun Nicolaides

Image Source: sport-fm.gr

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