“Enduring Savona’s Initial Strike and Finding Our Rhythm for a Positive Outcome”
Radanović during the Jadran training in Savona, Photo: Vuk Ilić/VPSCG
The European journey of the Adriatic continues along the Tyrrhenian Sea coastline after a three-month pause and two significant national competitions.
The Montenegrin champions, who played the initial segment of the season in the Champions League, are set to face one of the favorites – Savona from Italy – in their opening match of the Eurocup round of 16.
This match will take place in the Gulf of Genoa tomorrow (Friday) at 19:00.
“I believe we’ve drawn the toughest opponent from the eight teams that advanced to the round of 16 via the Eurocup group stage,” stated Novljan coach Petar Radanović confidently.
The head of Jadran’s coaching staff elaborated on the strength of their Eurocup rivals, emphasizing the caliber of players on the Italian team.
“They have many quality athletes, including Pjetr Filjoli, center Lorenc Bruni, and our own Bogdan Đurđić, along with Balaž Erdelji, Marko Vavič… It’s clear that we are gearing up for a challenging match,” Radanović emphasized.
Nevertheless…
“If we manage to withstand that initial impact, maintain our composure under pressure, and dictate our own rhythm—avoiding physically taxing duels and focusing on our movement—I believe a positive result is achievable,” Radanović articulated.
Captain Martin Gardašević is already signaling a victory in Savona.
“We are about to face a seasoned team, packed with national team members, but we’ve had ample time to prepare and analyze Savona. Naturally, we are aiming for a win; I know our team is ready and motivated—we are hopeful for the best outcome,” said Gardašević.
Savona completed the group stage flawlessly, competing among two Hungarian clubs, Vašaš and Honved, along with Greek Apollon. Their only defeat under coach Albert Angelini was a narrow loss to Vaša (18:17) on the road.
The rematch between Jadran and Savona is slated for March 23.
Eurocup, Round of 16
Friday
- 19:00 Savona – Jadran HN
- 19:00 South – Vašaš
- 19:30 Spandau – Ortiđa
- 19:30 Sabadelj – Turkoan
- 20:00 BVSC – C. zvezda
- 20:00 Panionios – Steaua
- 20:00 Primorje – Dinamo Tbilisi
- 20:45 Barcelona – Vouliagmeni
News