“Introducing New Faces: Bulatović and Adžić Step Into the Spotlight”
Robert Prosinečki and Vasilije Adžić at yesterday’s press conference, Photo: FSCG
A friendly match against Armenia is set for tonight at 20:00 in Nikšić, but the Montenegrin national football team is still reflecting on the far more significant encounter – the match against the Czech Republic in Plzen, where they suffered a disappointing loss (2:0) in the third round of World Cup qualifying.
Robert Prosinecki emphasizes that the first half of the game was superior to the second:
– The first half was good; in the second, we completely fell apart. We were unable to gain control, lacked danger, and struggled to maintain possession despite having ample space. It was certainly alarming, as we expected a better performance – Prosinecki commented.
Montenegro utilized a trio of centre-backs in Plzen, including Stefan Savic, Igor Vujacic, and Nikola Sipcic.
– We employed that setup against Turkey. It was a completely different scenario under tougher conditions, yet we performed admirably. This time, we aimed to control the midfield and assert ourselves. There were definitely opportunities to play, and we managed to exploit them a few times. Unfortunately, it wasn’t sufficient – Prosinečki noted.
The Croatian coach plans to make alterations for the match against Armenia, with Vasilije Adžić and Andrija Bulatović set to make their debuts, while Savić will miss out, along with Nikola Krstovic, Marko Jankovic, Vujacic, and Milan Vukotić.
– It’s true that Armenia’s best player, Henrikh Mhitarjan, hasn’t been in action for quite a while, but they remain a formidable and tough team playing in a 4-1-4-1 formation. This match holds significant importance for our confidence. I’m pleased that we have debutants and will experiment with some new players, providing opportunities for those who have played less up to now, and I hope for an engaging and strong match. We have 18 players available – commented Prosinecki, while also “calling out” the debutants:
– We certainly won’t judge them based on a single game. We know these are incredibly talented individuals who led the youth team to the European Championship, but it doesn’t automatically imply that they will perform at their peak immediately. They will undoubtedly receive chances in the future, as we have faith in their quality.
It’s clear to everyone that Montenegro needs to infuse some youth into the team.
– It’s essential for us to incorporate younger players. We’ll strive to provide opportunities for them in the remainder of the cycle. For instance, Adžić should have made his debut sooner, but injuries prevented that – concluded Prosinecki.
Adžić extends good luck wishes to the youngsters, Jovetić set to become record holder
Stevan Jovetić will compete against Armenia – the question remains whether he will start or enter in the second half, but he is set to make his 87th appearance for the national team, which will make him the record holder for the most matches in the national colors…
– Jovetić is here and feels great – stated coach Robert Prosinecki.
Vasilije Adžić is poised to debut on the senior team, but he took a moment to wish good fortune to the youth team he captained until recently, who are preparing for their appearance at the European Championship.
– I’d like to take this opportunity to extend my good luck wishes to my teammates, with whom I’ve shared five years. They have shown time and time again that they can compete effectively even without key players. I am confident they will achieve something remarkable at the European Championship – expressed the Juventus midfielder.
It’s time for him to showcase his talent with the senior team:
– I’ve been eagerly anticipating this moment for quite a while. Three times injuries have hindered me from debuting earlier and demonstrating my capabilities. I hope everything goes smoothly – remarked Adžić.
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