PZPN

We’ve started this EURO 2016 qualifiers beautifully, defeating Gibraltar in Faro 7:0. Has this victory encouraged the Polish national team?

Every victory is of great importance for creating the atmosphere and improving players’ morale. None of us has underestimated Gibraltar. We’ve played as well as we could and we could celebrate our first victory in the qualifiers. I am glad that we started playing competitive matches, as preparations were very long. I just can’t wait for upcoming games. The real competition begins now, between us and Germany, Scotland, Ireland and Georgia. Its result will decide who will qualify to EURO 2016.

On Saturday, at the National Stadium in Warsaw we will face the German national team. How many times have you played this encounter against World Champions in your head?

Germany is an unquestioned favourite of our group. After all, they are World Champions. I respect and appreciate them for what they have achieved and for the level they play at. But we are not afraid to play against them. We feel respect, but not the fear. We are very eager and ready to play one of our best games.

At the National Stadium we will witness real football celebration.

It’s true as this match is not only a chance to get three points and nice position in the table. Games against Germany always trigger loads and loads of emotions. Positive ones! This game is in mind of the entire country. This is definitely going to be a great match, anticipated impatiently by all of us. But please remember that the competition to qualify to EURO 2016 will last till the very end. I think that our plans and hopes can come true.

Are we optimally prepared to play against Germany?

Naturally. We’ve been preparing thoroughly for this game. We analysed in detail how our opponent plays and we’ve passed the short-version of this information to the team. First of all, we need to focus on how we play, on our tactical assumptions. The mental preparation will be also of importance. I firmly believe, that we are prepared in all respects to play against Germany, to play against Scotland. Taking into account the fact that we were lucky not to meet any random difficulties and that we will play two games in three days, we are facing a great sport challenge. Hence, I’ve called up a large group of players. Sebastian Boenisch has deserved a call-up and was planning to return to the national team, unfortunately his injury has prevented him from being with us. This time there was no place for Mateusz Klich. I still believe in him, but first he has to establish position in his club. We’ve decided to call up other players. That’s why we’ve selected so many, to learn what team do we have. Who needs time to qualify for the national team and who is ready now. All well-prepared players were called up. I repeat, the path to the national team is not closed to anyone. Life goes forward and you have to be open to whatever it brings.

How to stop World Champions?

Germans know how to play good football. Their team is well-organized and at the same time very creative in playmaking. This is a result of a long-term systemic work. We respect our opponent. We know the history well and we know, we’ve never won against Germany. However, we will do everything to achieve this historic victory. I’m sure we will have enough willingness and courage to do so.