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Fenerbahce head coach Domenico Tedesco said his team is fully focused on claiming three points as they face Czech club Viktoria Plzen away in the fourth week of the UEFA Europa League. Speaking at a press conference held at Mesta Stadium, Tedesco emphasized that his players are prepared for a demanding match and will try every option available to win.
Tedesco noted that Plzen have improved significantly under their new coach and highlighted their recent run of victories, including a strong performance against Roma. He described the Czech side as physically powerful and particularly difficult to face on home ground. Even so, he pointed out that Fenerbahce’s goal remains clear and unchanged.
“We want to win this match and we know it will be difficult. Plzen are playing very well with their new coach. They are strong physically and perform especially well at home. But our focus is on winning the match. We want the three points and we will try everything to achieve that,” he said.
The coach added that the squad currently benefits from depth in attacking positions, mentioning the positive recent contributions of Anderson Talisca and Youssef En Nesyri.
Tedesco explained that consistent performance matters more than the number of starting changes. With matches being played every few days, he stressed the importance of having players who are physically ready at all times. He underlined that rotation will continue, but without diminishing quality.
“Some changes happen in the starting eleven, but the team must stay consistent. With matches every three to four days, you need players who are ready. Sometimes you need fresh legs. We have many strong players and our rotation capacity is high without losing quality,” he said.
The Italian coach underlined the importance of detailed match preparation rather than relying on the reputation of any opponent. He noted that after taking charge of Fenerbahce, he has observed that every team in Türkiye has strong players and competitive structure.
“You should not make conclusions just from the name of a team. You need to prepare thoroughly. Plzen are not only a league team; they compete in European tournaments almost every year. To win here, you must analyze deeply and give everything on the field,” he added.
Defender Jayden Oosterwolde said he continues to improve after returning from injury and highlighted the benefits of playing alongside experienced teammate Milan Skriniar. He stated that the team is eager for the match and prepared to deal with the opponent’s physical style.
“Playing with Skriniar helps me a lot. He is a leader and very experienced. We know it will be a difficult match, but we are well prepared and excited,” he said.
Oosterwolde also clarified a recent photo taken during the Besiktas match that created discussion on social media, saying it resulted from a misunderstanding and did not reflect a gesture he intended.
Plzen head coach Martin Hysky acknowledged Fenerbahce’s overall strength, describing the Istanbul club as powerful in defense, midfield, and attack. He said the home atmosphere could play an important role and that his side will try to turn this into an advantage.
Hysky remarked that since Tedesco’s arrival, Fenerbahce have been more dynamic, more aggressive in pressing, and more compact as a unit. Defender Vaclav Jemelka added that Plzen will look to limit Fenerbahce’s attacking rhythm through pressing.
“We studied them closely. Their offensive play is very strong and direct. We will try to reduce these strengths through pressure,” Jemelka said.
13 min read
