The Georgia national football team will face Czechia in the second round of EURO 2024. Willy Sagnol held a pre-match press conference at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg.

“The match against Turkey was emotional because it was the first match for Georgia at the big tournament. Therefore, we did not play well in the first 20-25 minutes. But this match will remain one of the good memories.

The recovery process after the match against Turkey was the most important thing. We have to accept the result and focus on the next match. It will be a different match. Czechia has been playing at the big tournament for 25 years and has a lot of experience. Although, the style is different, I do not think, it will be an easier match than against Turkey.

The team had a good rest and regained energy. Only Kiteishvili is not available for the match. Czechia has successfully competed in the qualification stage. We have to respect the opponent.

Chakvetadze was not happy when I replaced him but I have not seen a player who is happy with leaving the pitch. Such reactions are not a problem. It did not change atmosphere in the team. Mikautadze played well in the first match and Budu was not given much time because of that. He must continue working hard, competition is always good for the team.

We know a lot about Czechia. We know their strengths and weaknesses but every match is different. I often say, the problem of the Georgia national team is not the opponent but playing with discipline. If we play with discipline, we can play well.

Now I cannot say anything about the squad. Sometimes you need changes, new energy. I think there may be some changes but I cannot say anything for sure.

We are not only focused on the result. It is important to analyze your game, what worked, what did not, work on the mistakes and improve them. Of course, it was heartbreaking to lose such game but the heartbreak for Georgia at the European Championship is already a step forward.

Mamardashvili had a right to leave his net because it did not matter to us whether we lost 1:2 or 1:3. Of course, it was a risk for us. I know Ivan Hasek quite well. He worked for my favorite team in France. I respect him a lot and I will meet him well”, - said Sagnol.

Georgia will play Czechia on June 22 in Hamburg. The match will start at 17:00 Tbilisi time.

WORLDSPORT.GE from Hamburg