Ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League second qualifying round clash between Ħamrun Spartans and Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv, Spartans head coach Giacomo Modica admitted that his side faces a major challenge, but emphasised his players’ determination and resilience.
“Dynamo Kyiv’s history and experience speak for themselves. There’s a clear technical gap between the two sides, and on paper, it looks like a mountain to climb,” Modica said.
“But football isn’t played on paper. We’re on a journey, and we want to keep going. If it came down only to technical ability, we’d struggle – but we have other qualities: unity, character, and the will to fight. I’ve seen this group grow stronger every step of the way. We came from behind in our last match and played good football. That performance is now behind us – today’s challenge is different, and even tougher.”
The Spartans head coach underlined that while there is full respect for Dynamo Kyiv, his team is not beaten before the match even begins.
“We know how tough this will be, but we go in with our heads high, proud of what we’ve achieved, and determined to push further.”
Ħamrun defender Ognjen Bjelicic echoed his coach’s comments, pointing out the scale of the challenge but insisting the players are fully committed.
“We respect Dynamo Kyiv for their history and quality, but we must not show fear. We’re 100% ready and will fight until the last second.”
Ħamrun Spartans host Dynamo Kyiv at the Tony Bezzina Stadium tommorow at 7pm.
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