Stanislav Cherchesov, the head coach of the Kazakhstan national football team, fielded questions from the media at a press conference before the away match against Slovenia in the UEFA Nations League.

 

– We arrived last night and managed to get some rest. Today we conducted a training session, and tomorrow we'll focus on theoretical aspects. Each player's condition will be evaluated tonight based on feedback from the medical team. This will guide our strategy for tomorrow’s game.

 

- Slovenia's national team may not have as many star players as Norway, but they are a cohesive unit that competed in Euro 2024. What do you expect from the opponent?

 

- I completely agree with everything you said. A lineup filled with star players doesn't necessarily make a team. I watched Slovenia's national team at the European Championship in person, and they truly played as a unit. Therefore, we are anticipating a tough match. We are preparing accordingly, familiar with their playing style and the players. We will devise strategies to counter their strengths while creating our own opportunities and aiming for a positive result.

 

– In Kazakhstan, this match is seen as a chance for revenge. Do you view it that way?

 

– I understand that Kazakhstan played against Slovenia twice in the last qualification round and lost both matches with a score of 1-2. Certainly, the fans and players remember those defeats. While some may view this as a rematch, it should be approached with the right focus, not out of spite. We need to step onto the pitch with a clear and well-understood strategy, keeping our minds calm and free from distractions. It’s our third match in a short span, and the teams know each other well. We are determined to effectively resolve this chapter.

 

– After the first match of the Nations League, how satisfied are you with the team's condition and the execution of your strategies?

 

– Honestly, I've probably never spent this much time talking with the players, given our limited time together. Whatever we can't address on the field, we tackle in my office or during theory sessions to ensure clear understanding. Apart from some tactical nuances, I have no complaints regarding commitment and discipline. However, we do need to have more confidence in our abilities and take control at key moments. The game against Norway was challenging, but we are aware of our capabilities and know the areas we need to improve.

 

– Given Kazakhstan's typical challenges of playing every 3-4 days due to logistics and a tight schedule, can we expect rotation in many positions for tomorrow's match?

 

– We will assess the situation during today's training session, and then, as previously mentioned, make decisions based on the medical staff's evaluation of each player's condition.

 

– Many were satisfied with the draw against Norway. How appropriate do you think that sentiment is, especially if we want to play in the World Cup and need to beat stronger opponents? What efforts are being made to cultivate a winning spirit?

 

– We're not focusing on the World Cup just yet. A winning spirit is built through games, rigorous training, and the like. That's precisely why we're here. As I've mentioned before, this is a tough tournament—all opponents are top-notch, and there are no easy matches. These games are crucial in demonstrating what each player is capable of. We continuously motivate them, offer constructive criticism, give praise, making them prepared for the challenges you just mentioned.