Birkirkara FC to take on FC Krasnodar

by Ayrton Galea - 28th July 2016

Birkirkara FC this evening will be the first Maltese club ever to play the third qualifying round in UEFA competitions, when they take on FC Krasnodar.

It has been a remarkable journey for the Stripes so far. After eliminating NK Siroki Brijeg, not many believef in their chances against Heart of Midlothian FC, of Scotland. However, following a goal-less draw at home, the Stripes defeated them with a 2-1 score to qualify for the third round.

The third round draw set them up on a clash with FC Krasnodar from Russia. Despite being founded just eight years ago, Krasnodar were quick to leave their mark in the UEFA Europa League as during the 2014-2015 season, they made it to the group-stages while last year, they advanced to the round of 32. Last seadon they placed in the fourth position in the Russian League.

Birkirkara coach Drazen Besek said, “We have a good atmosphere after the last game and we know we surprised most people because we qualified for the third qualifying round but we're not surprised because we know how hard we work and I'm sure we're in the good direction.

“I have selected the team, I choose players who can follow me and have big ambition. I will be fair to everybody and I take responsibility for every decision. We are only concentrated about tomorrow's game at the moment. We have big respect to our opponents but in the pitch, in those ninety minutes, everything can happen.”

On the other hand, team captain Gareth Sciberras said, “We will go to this game concentrated and motivated to give a good performance. We know we're playing a strong squad and the best thing we can do is to follow the coach's tactics.”

“We have no pressure. We go to the game and we give our utmost. We know we're playing a very strong squad we have a recent very good record in Europe and we wish to continue building on that. These are all huge experiences for the Club and the players. I don't see it as pressure; I think it's a bonus. We look forward to play these types of games. It's up to us to go for the game with the best attitude possible.”

Edward Herrera is the only player doubtful for the Stripes while Edmond Agius is still ruled-out injured. Nikola Vukanac has trained regularly and he's expected to be in the eighteen-man squad. Mislav Andelkovic, who signed a new contract last week, is eligible to play.

The match will be played at the Hibernians Stadium and is scheduled to kick off at 19:30. Tickets for the home-side have been sold out, but tickets for the away-side can be bought from the stadium.

Come on the Stripes!

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