Vutov seeks cutting edge from Bulgaria
Monday, July 21, 2014
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Antonio Vutov tells UEFA.com that Bulgaria can still come through Group B and how making sure they convert, not just create, chances will make all the difference.
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One of Bulgaria's most impressive players in their opening 3-0 reverse against Germany, Antonio Vutov remains defiantly optimistic that his side can still progress from Group B. Aleksandar Dimitrov's side carved out plenty of chances despite the heavy scoreline, and Udinese Calcio midfielder Vutov assured UEFA.com that his side can bounce back.
UEFA.com: You lost your first game, but the draw between Ukraine and Serbia means that you still have every chance.
Antonio Vutov: True. We have two more games to play. Nothing has been decided yet. Anything can happen. We can even win this group.
UEFA.com: You had nine attempts on goal against Germany, so was a 3-0 defeat a fair reflection of the way the match went?
Vutov: I don't think so, no. Our opponents had more luck. We had far more chances than them, but we failed to score. The early goal certainly had an influence on the game. It was difficult to come back from that.
UEFA.com: Were Germany simply too strong or is there another explanation for the defeat?
Vutov: Basically, I think that they played a very good tactical game and that was the reason for their victory. Nothing more than that.
UEFA.com: What did you learn from that match?
Vutov: We learned that the most important thing is to score. It's not enough only to create chances.
UEFA.com: Besides taking your chances, what else do you need to improve in the next match in Papa against Ukraine?
Vutov: We have to play more calmly and with more confidence. We must follow our tactical plan more diligently and, quite simply, we have to do what our coach is telling us.
UEFA.com: At the end of the Germany match, a number of players had some physical problems, particularly with cramp. Do you think this could be an issue going forwards?
Vutov: No, I don't think this will be a problem. Most of my team-mates have been working on their fitness with the clubs before this tournament, so the legs are still somewhat heavy. But as the tournament continues, they will perform better and better.