It is easy to make some decisions after the match against Latvia. It is first time that Georgian team passed qualifying round within a year without lost. It is first time since 1995 that Georgian National Team lost none away matches one after another. According to statistic this year a playing of “Crusanders” is more mobile than it was before. And today when we gained 6 points in 4 matches we are dissatisfied, so demands are higher now and it is quite good.
Under a new head coach Temur Ketsbaia National Team played 7 matches without loosing. Most times they were playing attack football, scoring goal in Georgian goal at the 91st minutes in Latvia, was like a cold shower for Georgian players.
“World Sport” got an interview from Temur Ketsbaia, after returning from Latvia. The Interview was not only about summarizing match against Latvia, Ketsbaia also talked about future plans:
- Generally, how can you estimate a match in Riga?
- It is pity that a goal was scored in our goal at the last moment. Playing lasts for 90 minutes and we must not lose concentration. Unfortunately, it caused losing the points. But is is common in football. As for quality of our team’s playing, I am satisfied. This match is already past and we should think about future matches.
- Do not you think that you made mistake in changing?
- No, I do not. Latvian scored very rare goal.
- Who do you estimate condition of a pitch?
- A pitch was in a very good condition but the weather was windy, I think this match was spectacular.
- Georgian team had a little advantage in the first half but after break they started attack. It was obvious that Georgian team was playing for winning than Latvian one…
- The tactic of the game was such kind that we had much more possibilities to play more attack football. Our goal was logic, but could not keep ball difference. The main is that I see a team on the pitch which knows what to do. It is not occasionally that we did not lose during 7 matches. We won only tow matches but it is fact that team is not confused and knows how to play.
- Greece won over Israel 2:1, have you watched this match?
- No, I have not. I have talked to my friends from Cyprus and they told me that Greece scored the second goal with doubtful penalty and Greece was not shown real penalty. If we look through the group’s situation Georgia keeps the relevant place. If anyone thinks that we should have 12 points, it is wrong idea. It was possible to show better result but we also base on our reality.
- How long are you going to stay in Tbilisi?
- Tomorrow I am leaving for Cyprus.
- On November 17 we have friendly match against Slovenia. Slovenia looks like Croatia with playing style and we are hosting Croatia on March 26, is this moment very important?
- We had not chance of choosing, but it is good that this friendly match will be held.
- You will call new players up for this match, will not you?
- Yes, I will. I will try to check those players who did not have chance of playing in the last matches. Before this match I am planning to gather in Tbilisi. On November 17 is Wednesday and I want to ask Georgian Football Federation to delay Saturday-Sunday matches.
- Can you name those players, who will be called up for the match against Slovenia?
- First of all we shoul clear up if our legionaries will be allowed to come. So, I cannot say anything.
Ilia Nanobashvili
