Jordi Cruyff, the Maccabi Tel Aviv Head Coach saw his squad advance in European play with a 2:0 (5:1 aggregate) win over Reykjavik. The boss was pleased with his side’s effort, spoke about the club’s best opponent in Greek outfit Panionios, discussed the Yellow & Blue’s efforts in continental play over the last number of seasons and summed up the match:
“This was a good win. Once they scored in Israel we needed to play quicker and faster football here, moving the ball forward and we were prepared for their strength and physicality. We just began our season a few weeks ago and we are improving.”
Continental play:
“We have played in Europe over the last few years including in the group stages 3 of the last 4 seasons. We have made a few adjustments with our players and waiting for more arrivals.”
About Vidar Kjartansson who played in front of his home crowd:
“He tried extra hard and he was a little bit injured yesterday but he wanted to show some good things in front of his friends and family”
What to expect from Panionios next week:
“They play direct football and are strong and physical. We will have to pay extra attention to their crosses but we are playing well from week to week and continue to improve.”
ומה היה לקיארטנסון לומר על המשחק המיוחד מבחינתו? “זו תמיד הרגשה טובה לשחק בבית, עבר הרבה זמן מאז ששיחקתי כאן בפעם האחרונה, זה היה לפני 4 שנים. כיף להיות פה, זו עיר נהדרת וטוב לראות כל כך הרבה חברים ובני משפחה שלי כאן”.
What did Vidar Kjartansson have to say about playing in Iceland? “It’s always a great feeling to play at home, it’s been a long time since I’ve played here which was 4 years ago. It was fun to be here and it’s a great city. It was fantastic to see many friends and family here.”
