“We can’t lose”, says Russia manager
Russia manager d**k Advocaat has admitted that his side can’t afford to drop points against the Republic of Ireland in tonight’s European Championship qualifier at the Aviva Stadium.
Russia have put themselves under pressure having lost their opening game at home to Slovakia. The team are currently on three points after they beat Andorra away.
Yet, if Ireland were to win tonight Russia would find themselves six points adrift of the group leaders.
Advocaat is well aware that Russia will be in serious difficulty if this scenario does happen and he said, “We must win or draw, we cannot lose.”
“Our intention always is to win a game, but if you feel that is not possible, if the other team is better, then you have to change tactics a little bit during the game. You have to draw back, that’s the way it goes. We will go out for a victory, but if we
get a draw, then okay,” added the Russian manager.
Speaking at a press conference in Dublin, Advocaat reminded the media that Russia will finish the group strongly. “Remember, four of our last five games are at home,” he said.
However, the Russia manager has stated that his side have been poor so far, but that he expects an improvement tonight.
“I was really disappointed with the result against Slovakia. I was not disappointed with the commitment. Some players are in better shape than they were against Slovakia. They are playing more regularly for their clubs.”
Advocaat also believes that Ireland will have no surprises for his team and that Russia will look to exploit any space given to them.
“I think Ireland has no secrets, if they can attack they will attack, and if they have to defend they will defend as a team. So, no secrets, but if they give us the space we can damage them,” warned the Russian manager.
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