True, the Croats got to the World Cup through the “kitchen door”. because they replaced the excluded Russia at the last moment, but they can afford the surprise. In the world ranking, they are in 20th place, seven positions behind Poland.
“We will not be favorites in any match, but we can fight for victory in every match,” says Ferhat Akbar.
The Turk improved his game
The Croatians, under the guidance of a new coach, quickly achieved success. In July, in Zadar, they won the Challenger Cup, whose stake was promotion to the League of Nations. In the final, Akbas’ wards quite unexpectedly beat Belgium with a score of 3:1.
- Of course, entering the League of Nations is a big step in the development of Croatian volleyball. We beat Puerto Rico in the semi-final and then we knew that victory in the entire tournament was within our reach. The Belgians are definitely the more successful team, with much more experience, but they were a bit against the wall. We, in turn, were a team that had nothing to lose,” recalls Matela.
Akbas and his colleagues have extensive knowledge of Polish volleyball players, but as Matela noted, this should not be a significant advantage.
- Of course, we know the Polish players very well, each of us with several coaches also worked in clubs, but I would not like to talk about the advantage here. With today’s technology, the presence of matches on the Internet, it is difficult to surprise your opponent today. The girls also know each other, Samantha Fabrice and Bozhana Butigan played together with Asia Volosh in Imoco Conegliano. However, the truth is that most of all will depend on ourselves, - Matela appreciated.
Watch out Fabrice!
The aforementioned Fabrice is the clear leader of the Croatian national team, as well as one of the best strikers in Europe. The offensive game is based on him, he now plays in Eczacibasi.
- It’s true, but the team has already shown that when Fabrice has a weaker moment, other players are able to seize the initiative. I think teamwork is our biggest advantage. These younger players, who are just entering the national team, are also able to provide a good replacement and support the team,” adds coach Matela.
Bonek surprised
The former president revealed the secret
Lukasz Sobala / Pressfocus
Polish volleyball players hope to win first match
Lukasz Sobala / Pressfocus
Polish volleyball players hope to win first match
Lukasz Sobala / Pressfocus
Polish volleyball players hope to win first match
Lukasz Sobala / Pressfocus
Polish volleyball players hope to win first match
Source: FAKT
