Slovakia ready to face Belgium’s many threats in Euro 2024 Group E opener
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Slovakia captain and defender Milan Skriniar at training ahead in Mainz on June 16, 2024 ahead of the Euro 2024 group game against Belgium.
PHOTO: AFP
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FRANKFURT, Germany - Slovakia have a clean bill of health ahead of their European Championship Group E opener against Belgium on Monday as coach Francesco Calzona admitted a draw would be a fantastic start to their campaign.
Belgium are the pool favourites but Slovakia are hoping to spring a surprise despite the many threats from their opponents.
“We know we are by no means favourites for the match,” Calzona told reporters on Sunday. “I would be delighted with a draw. I hope the team plays beyond themselves and get the utmost in terms of result. What matters is not losing.
“Belgium are good in transition and on the counter-attack, but we have our own way of playing. When you press well it can be an advantage, but if you don’t then you leave more space.
“But I am not only concerned by Belgium’s counter-attack, they also keep the ball very well in tight areas and have top players.”
Calzona, who doubled up as interim Napoli coach in the second half of the Serie A season, is one of five Italian coaches at Euro 2024.
“It is a source of great pride to have all five of us here,” he said. “I am not sure if it is a record. It is a very proud moment to coach any team in international football, even if it is not your own country.”
Slovakia captain Milan Skriniar will have the task of keeping in-form striker Romelu Lukaku quiet and having spent three seasons with the Belgian at Inter Milan, he knows him well.
“We have exchanged some messages in the last few days, he is looking forward to the game, just like I am,” centre back Skriniar said.
“We all know about his qualities., so it is not about me giving advice to my team mates. It is going to be very difficult.”
The Slovakian players are eager to get their campaign under way and have just the right level of nerves to keep them focussed.
“We have watched every game since Friday and wanting our chance to come,” Skriniar said. “We have been training hard ahead of the opening game. We can’t wait to get out there on the pitch and we are ready.
“We are feeling a little bit of nerves but the right amount. It is great honour to be the captain at such a big tournament.” REUTERS
