Brann’s head coach, Freyr Alexandersson, held a press conference ahead of the UEFA Europa League match against Fenerbahçe. The match, part of the competition’s sixth week, will take place at Brann Stadium. Alexandersson emphasized his team’s readiness for the encounter, stating, “This is the Europa League, not a Mickey Mouse tournament.”
Preparation and Performance
During the press briefing, the 43-year-old Icelandic coach highlighted the rigorous preparation the team underwent in Spain after concluding a long season in the Norwegian league. He reassured fans that the ten-day gap since their last match would not affect their performance. This season, Brann has played a total of 51 matches, maintaining a steady competitive tempo.
Staying Focused
- Freyr Alexandersson noted the team’s focus, stating they have been playing two to three games each week for the past two to three months.
- He addressed speculation regarding Fenerbahçe’s missing players, asserting that Brann would not alter their tactical approach.
- Despite the absence of skilled players like Asensio, Alexandersson believes Fenerbahçe’s squad still holds quality substitutes.
Respect for Fenerbahçe
Alexandersson expressed great respect for Fenerbahçe’s coach, Domenico Tedesco, and acknowledged the challenges posed by Turkish football. He remarked on the impressive attributes of Turkish teams, including their fervent fans and high-quality players.
Home Advantage
Alexandersson acknowledged the benefits of playing at home, stating that facing Fenerbahçe at their stadium would be more difficult. He noted, “If we were playing in Turkey, it would have been harder for us.” He also shared insights on the strategic importance of controlling the game against Fenerbahçe.
Aiming for Victory
In his closing remarks, Alexandersson reflected on the significance of winning against Fenerbahçe, labeling it a historic achievement for Brann. He is determined to strive for a victory, asserting, “We will do everything we can to win. This is the Europa League, not a Mickey Mouse tournament.”
