Beşiktaş targets victory in away match against Hoffenheim
Ahead of their UEFA Europa League match against Hoffenheim, Beşiktaş head coach Vincenzo Italiano and midfielder Salih Özcan stated that they aim to return from the tough away fixture with three points.
Beşiktaş will be the guest of Hoffenheim tomorrow at 22:00 TSI in the second matchday of the UEFA Europa League. Speaking at the press conference held at the Rhein-Neckar-Arena, head coach Vincenzo Italiano and midfielder Salih Özcan emphasized that they will take the field for a victory.
Targeting advancement from the group in Europe
Head coach Vincenzo Italiano stated that the Europa League carries a different dynamic compared to the Süper Lig, noting that their primary goal is to advance from the group. Reminding that they reached this stage by going through a difficult process, the Italian coach expressed that they prepare for every match with maximum concentration.
Vlahovic will not be in the squad
Beşiktaş's Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic was left behind in Istanbul due to a stomach ailment. Italiano stated that this absence does not pose a problem for the team and that he trusts the players who will fill his position.
The search for improving away performance
Emphasizing that they want to reflect their home game performance onto away matches as well, Italiano said they must compensate for the lack of supporter backing through game discipline. Stating that the team is in a good physical and mental condition, the head coach expressed that they aim to display a more controlled game in away matches.
Warnings from Salih Özcan
Experienced player Salih Özcan stated that Hoffenheim is a quality team and that they must avoid simple mistakes. Stating that they will be cautious against the opponent's counter-attacks, Özcan indicated that they want to leave the pitch with three points with the support of their fans.