March 22, Paris, “Stade de France” – Georgian national team will hold a qualifying match against France. Each football player of the team looks forward to this match. Sandro Kobakhidze, player of “Dnipro”, is among them. The 26-year-old Georgian is one of the leaders in the team of Temur Ketsbaia. He has never played against such team like France. “World Sport” contacted Kobakhidze:

-         What does the match against France mean to you? Do you think it is the most important in your career?

-         It means that I will play against great team on great stadium.

-         You missed the match against Spain because of injury. So, you have never played against grand teams before…

-         Yes, it is true. I have never played against such teams with the national team.

-         I think, not even with the club…

-         Perhaps, but club is different from the national team. “Shakhtar” is the strongest club I have ever played.

-         What kind of match do you expect?

-         I think we have physical advantage because the French have to lose a lot and we – nothing. We must not make mistakes in offence. I think, we will have goal chances.

-         When did you watch the match of the French team the last time?

-         Last year I watch the match between Finland and France.

-         Georgia almost took point against Spain. Does it mean you will play freely against France?

-         Of course. It is not right to say Georgia does not have a chance. France is another level and we must be mobilized not to make mistakes. I am sure we will have a chance.

-         Which French football player do you consider the best?

-         Franck Ribery. I like young Raphael Varane too.

-         Now about “Dnipro”. Why did not coach Juande Ramos let you play in the previous round? Did he tell you the reason?

-         I had leg injury and could not participate in the second meeting. Perhaps, Ramos thought I was not ready. I am waiting for my chance. Now I am on form.

-         How real is it that “Dnipro” will take the second place and then to get in the group of Champions League?

-         It is real. Today we are better team than “Dynamo” Kyiv and “Metalist”. We will hold tough matches and we must try to show good result.

-         How do you like playing style of Ramos?

-         I like it 100 per cent.

-         Ramos will support you against France…

-         Yes, he is Spanish and it is natural.

 

Ilia Nanobashvili