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Kahriman shoulders Serbia burden

Damir Kahriman believes Serbia are "ready for anything" as they count down the hours to taking on the Netherlands at a sold-out Euroborg in Groningen.

Damir Kahriman believes Serbia are prepared to seize "our moment" as they count down the hours before they face the Netherlands in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship final.

Collective strength
The FK Vojvodina goalkeeper is yet to concede in his three finals appearances and, while acknowledging the contribution of Serbia's back four, Kahriman believes their progress to Groningen can be attributed to a less tangible explanation. "The secret of our success is the phenomenal atmosphere within this squad," he told uefa.com. "Our coaching staff deserve great credit for instilling that. The players are friends on and off the pitch and collectively we're very strong. The core of this team has been together for a number of years waiting for our moment and that is now. We're ready for something more."

'Ready for everything'
The Euroborg will be the venue where Serbia's destiny will unfold, although Kahriman is not overly concerned with their opponents. "To be honest we don't know too much about the Netherlands and we won't spend too much time thinking about them,"he added. "Our duty is to spend our time focusing on our strengths and preparing to give our best." The hosts reached the final with an epic penalty shoot-out win against England and Kahriman - whose own team enjoyed a rather more straightforward 2-0 semi-final win against Belgium - is serene at the prospect of a repeat. "We'll try to finish it in normal time but, if we have to play extra time, we're prepared for that and for a penalty shoot-out if that's what it takes. We're ready for everything."

'Keep it simple'
Vojvodina had the best record in the Superliga in 2006/07, conceding just 25 goals in 32 matches, with Kahriman keeping 12 clean sheets and the goalkeeper has continued to impress in the Netherlands. "My own form's been very good, I feel like I'm improving all the time. I'm pleased to have continued that form, I'm here as a representative of my club and I'm delighted it's gone so well. For me simplicity is the key, it's the way to get the best results. I never feel I have to show off and do something extraordinary because the way to give confidence to my team is by doing my job to the best of my ability."

Defensive fortitude
That ability has helped Serbia to the brink of a first U21 crown since their triumph as part of the former Yugoslavia 29 years ago, and Kahriman has no doubts what has been the foundation for their success. "Not conceding is the base of our game and whole philosophy. Strong defending is our first aim, our attacking players will always score goals. We're a clinical team. Our primary duties are to work together and carry out our coach's instructions. I've learnt a lot at these finals, particularly that you have to keep going and cannot afford to make mistakes, but you never know what is around the next corner." The whole of Serbia will hope it is a European title.

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