Slovakia national team coach Ján Kozák made it quite clear at his team’s press conference yesterday evening ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2018 European Qualifying match against Malta, that Slovakia are here to get the three points, even if they will respect Malta as their opponents

“We have assessed the Malta team very well and in particular we have got to be prepared against their counter-attacks.  It will be very difficult though to get the three points but of course that is why we are here.  We are coming from two qualifying wins against Scotland and Lithuania so I would expect no changes in my side.  We have been together for four years now, and even if this time my players have been away from four months I expect continuation.  The match against Malta is very important” stated Kozák during his team’s press conference yesterday evening.

Napoli ace midfielder Marek Hamšík, sporting his usual stand-out “La Cresta” hairstyle immediately noticed that Napoli is popular here in Malta “It was nice today seeing Napoli supporters in Valletta sporting the Napoli jerseys and I also know that there is also a supporters club on the island.  Very nice indeed”  

The Malta Independent Sports Team asked Hamsik if he would be dissapointed if Slovakia will leave Malta without the three points “We came here for a victory but we all know it will be a very difficult match and as the manager stated we have to respect out opponents.  We believe in our team spirit and the unity of the team and we will use all these qualities against Malta.  We definitely need to get the three points.”

 

Photo: Marek Hamšík speaks at his team’s press conference yesterday evening ahead of match against Malta. Domenic Aquilina.