Pressure mounting as every game becomes a must-win for Budocnost Podgorica
Only a win will do for the reigning champions in Denmark
If Budućnost want to keep alive any hope of a place in the semi-finals of the Women’s EHF Champions League, a win on Saturday against Randers is a must.
A loss in the game in Denmark would deal a serious blow to their chances of securing one the the top two places in the Group 1.
"I believe that in Denmark we will play better than in Podgorica.
“A win would put us back in the race for the semi-finals, which would give us two more big matches in spring.
“That this is what we are fighting for and what we dream of. My optimism is based primarily on the apparent rise of form.
“This team has proven it can win against any opponent. It’s evident that we are playing better and better,” claims Budućnost line player, Dragana Cvijić.
Almost two weeks ago, Budućnost defeated Randers at home 24:22, but managed to just break down the Danish resistance at the end of the game.
"We were aware that Randers came to Podgorica with a clear ambition and belief in the triumph. But, we controlled them almost for the whole game.
“The match flowed to our rhythm. We are really proud of that victory. In any case, we should not underestimate Randers. I believe that the defeat in Podgorica, which they certainly didn’t expect, will further motivate the Danish team to shine in front of their fans.
“It's that kind of their mentality, the Champions League for them is the greatest inspiration and commitment,” Cvijić added.
In four away games so far in the competition, including the group matches, Budućnost won only once, against Viborg.
The reigning champions are hoping that Denmark will once again prove to be lucky for them.
“We have to repeat good stuff from the game in Morača, to reduce our errors, and to force them to make mistakes so we can score easy goals.
“This is the only way to play against such a fast team, who are well prepared and dominant in transition.
“We are aware that this is our most important game. We had two weeks to prepare for the game, and we have carefully analysed every detail of Randers’ play with our coach Dragan Adžić.
“We are not afraid, we're going to Denmark to win the match and we can’t wait for the game to start,” said left wing Biljana Pavićević.
TEXT:
Saša Jončić / cor