Craiova under the microscope: “Sure to make us work hard”

Mainz have another European adventure on the horizon as they head to face Universitatea Craiova on matchday four in the UEFA Conference League. FSV currently occupy third place in the league standings thanks to their perfect start, collecting nine points from their first three fixtures. Meanwhile, the Romanian hosts sit 20th and on four points after one win, one draw and one defeat. Approximately 1,200 travelling Mainz fans are expected to have taken the flight of around two hours to be able to support their side at the ground on Thursday evening, where they will hopefully celebrate another magical and memorable European night for FSV.

Bo Henriksen spoke about...

...the fixture in Craiova: “We are approaching the task that awaits with a great deal of respect and know that a tough challenge lies ahead of us in Craiova. Nevertheless, we know the quality we possess and want to make it a positive experience. We have taken a look around the stadium and the turf is immaculate. Therefore, there are to be no excuses and it will be a lot of fun to step out on that pitch.”

...the upcoming opponent’s recent change in the dugout: “Normally, we have a rough idea of the formation and style of play which we are likely to be faced with. However, due to the change of coach, that is now somewhat unknown and makes the situation a bit trickier, but we are prepared for anything regardless.”

...squad updates: “Phillipp Mwene did not travel as a result of illness and Anthony Caci remains injured. Otherwise, everyone is here and fit and ready for tomorrow’s game.”

...individual Craiova players: “Obviously, we highlighted one or two of our upcoming opponent’s players during our analysis and made the team aware of their qualities. We know that they have very good players in their ranks, including a number of senior internationals. Our job is to keep them at bay.”

robin zentner spoke about...

...Mainz’s up-and-down performances of late: “We have obviously been presenting a pair of contrasting faces in the two competitions in which we are competing, despite that same style of play which we are employing in the Bundesliga bearing fruit in the Conference League. That has been a recurring theme throughout the season so far, and, for example, we have always won by a single goal in the Conference League up until now. As recently as the away leg of the qualifying round were we dangerous going forward though, and that’s what we want to build on.”

...the defensive showing: “The way in which we approach games and perform is fundamentally more important to me than keeping a clean sheet. If we go about things as we aim to and produce a good display then we are on the right track to success.”

...the FSV fans: “The backing of the fans away in Europe is something that we have been able to count on of late. It is unbelievable what they will undertake to be able to be here with us and provide support. I think that will be the case this time as well and we are really looking forward to seeing our fans in their numbers once again inside the ground.”

...his expectations for the upcoming fixture: “We remarked on their high-quality football in our analysis and that they are used to winning and benefitting from the performances of individual players to bring them success. Craiova will give it their all, since they have a tangible chance of qualifying for the knockout stages. Therefore, they are sure to make us work hard.”