Ivaylo Petev: I believe in the team

Ludogorets coach Ivaylo Petev is optimistic about the rematch with Ballkani, despite the 0:2 loss in the first game.

"Of course we believe in us. We must try hard to remove the Ballkani. Yes, we played a mediocre game, conceded basic goals. We didn't manage to score. From the beginning we must seek win. We have two passive goals to delete. We must be smart, not act chaotically. I believe in all the players and I believe that we will continue," Petev began.

He added that the experience of Ludogorets will be important in the match. "The most important thing is the self-giving of each one and the desire to succeed. In view of the result, it is logical that the opponent is more collected. We have and must erase a 2-goal lead. I expect a reaction. We have to fight the pressure that is upon us. This will not be an excuse," Petev added.

He also commented on his words after the match against Krumovgrad, when he said that apparently the loss to Ballkani was not accidental.

"Now I'm of a slightly different opinion. I watched the match with Krumovgrad twice. We were lethargic in defense, we conceded 3 goals but conceded over 10. Running and functionally we were on a different level from what we showed against Balkani. The players ran more than the previous game. We easily conceded 3 goals, which is a lot for us," said Petev.

"Against Ballkani we have to play as a team. In this way, we got out of the crisis in March. That's why every player is on this team. Each to fight for the other. The stakes are high. We must do everything to overcome this opponent. It depends on us. Everything is included in our plans for the match", concluded Ivaylo Petev regarding possible extra time and penalties.