Coach Szymon Grabowski met with journalists ahead of the upcoming match against Jagiellonia Białystok.
We are definitely pleased that the preparations for this very important match are going well, especially in terms of health. All the players who were available for the match against Radomiak are also available for the match against Jagiellonia. This is really great news for us, so as we prepare to face an opponent who plays at one of the higher levels in our league, there’s a lot of optimism. We are certainly eagerly awaiting the first whistle. – said coach Grabowski.
On whether Lechia has an advantage given Jagiellonia Białystok’s current situation:
– For us, the advantage is that we can face the Polish champions after two or even three consecutive good performances. The last two matches ended successfully for us, so that gives us an advantage — we can play against the Polish champions in good spirits, with a positive attitude, and with the mindset that we will be able to fight for three points.
On Lechia’s victory over Jagiellonia Białystok three years ago on the same day:
– If history is on our side regarding this match, I also hope that it will be a small advantage. However, the bigger advantage will definitely be the support of a strong group of our fans.
On Jagiellonia’s offensive and Lechia’s defensive play:
– Of course, we are aware that Radomiak had some clear-cut scoring opportunities, and I’m sure Jagiellonia will create similar chances. But our main task is to defend well and minimize those situations. We are continuously working on our team’s defensive actions. We have also identified the very strong points and strengths of the opponent. We know how offensively minded Jagiellonia is, the dangerous players they have up front, but not only up front, as Coach Siemieniec’s entire approach is very offensive. We will need to put a lot of work into our off-the-ball play, but I think Jagiellonia will need to do just as much work when it comes to dealing with our moments with the ball. I expect a very good match, and as I said at the beginning, I’m optimistic about the final result.
On Jagiellonia’s weaknesses that Lechia will want to use:
– Anyone who follows our league or observes Jagiellonia’s performance can draw their own conclusions. I have identified their weaknesses, and the coaching staff has once again done a great job, as we have had two briefings regarding our upcoming opponent. So, I believe that both I and the players know what to expect, and we will aim to demonstrate during the match that our homework has been done very well and that we can exploit the weak points or vulnerable moments in the hosts’ game.
On the lineup for the match against Jagiellonia and the players’ health condition:
– I don’t adhere to the principle that you don’t change a winning lineup. I always try to field the strongest lineup at any given moment, and that will be the case in Białystok as well. Regarding health issues, Tomasz Wójtowicz is the furthest from returning, Tomas Bobcek will start individual training on Monday, and Louis D’Arrigo will be included in the matchday squad.
