Zrinjski today against Bulgarian Botev

(Patria) - HŠK Zrinjski plays the first match of the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League today against Bulgarian representative Botev.

Coach of the "nobles" Mario Ivanković emphasized that his footballers are ready for the challenges awaiting them in today's match.

"We are focused on Botev, we have analyzed them. They are a quality team with many good players, especially in forward play. We have identified the situations in which they are most dangerous and I hope we will neutralize them through tactical training sessions where we prepared our game," Ivanković stated before departure.

The strategist of Zrinjski pointed out that a good start to the match will be crucial for a favorable result:

"The stadium will be full, there will be a good atmosphere, and it is important that we 'show our teeth' in the first 20 minutes. If we do that, it will definitely be easier for us. We have many players who have been playing European matches for the last few years, so we are not lacking in that regard and should not succumb to pressure."

Ivanković added that the Bulgarians are a team against which one can play.

"We are ready, we need good energy, unity, as we had in Ljubljana against Bravo. If we are like that, we can achieve a result that guarantees a hot pitch in seven days in Mostar, to try to advance in front of our own audience," Ivanković said.

If Zrinjski overcomes Botev, the last obstacle for the Mostar side on the way to the group stage of the Conference League will be the better team from the clash between Swiss Zurich and Portuguese Vitoria.