What did the match you lost against the European vice-champion show you?
The difference in the level of teams and players was easy to see. But I think despite the result of 1-5 there were some things in our game that we wanted to see. We even tried out some players who otherwise wouldn’t have stood a chance. We have to repeat these matches and play regularly with the best teams in Europe, so that the players can get an idea and meet the best opponents. You can show them any picture, but on the pitch they will find that they are lagging behind, working with the ball or solving situations.
You were already losing by the second minute. Did he score a goal right away with the team?
I think the first goal didn’t affect us as much as a worse start to the second half, when we opened the game in vain. Then we no longer caught the second half and constantly let the opponent into quick counter-attacks and chances. Even though we conceded two low goals in the tenth minute, we were able to fight back and had some interesting chances, including a goal, but then came another mistake and Portugal’s third goal. Then, tactically, our players didn’t really do the things we wanted, like not letting go of midfield.
After Petr Pudhorecký’s 1:2 goal, did you think you could play a balanced match?
We have had several interesting situations and we have come across several opportunities, but we have not resolved them correctly and precisely. I regret, for example, the moments when we lose the ball and the players stop playing because they are disappointed it didn’t work out. When the opponent made a mistake, he immediately played again, while we fought for a long time. About ten minutes. If two or three players stop playing, you have no chance of being successful 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 debuts in the round of 16 against Portugal. How much has it broadened your horizons?
There’s nothing else left. We wanted to play the game and although this time the team was put together on the fly, we played at a good level. In addition, four players will leave after Portugal and four more will arrive. We weren’t in the best mood for the match, as is usually the case. We also tried other formations and the defensive phase sometimes looked like this. It’s still too early for a detailed assessment, however, no newcomers entered the game worried, everyone was determined.
How different will Tuesday’s game against Norway be?
We are facing a different opponent who plays with a different form than Portugal. But it won’t be much weaker, I expect another tough match with another participant in the European Championship. From what I’ve seen of the Norwegian nomination, apart from one or two names, the team is complete. It will be another good test to fine-tune the EURO squad and select the best players for consideration.
