Without Ioannis Papapetrou and Giorgos Papagiannis, Panathinaikos left for Madrid in view of the match against Real on Wednesday, in the context of the 22nd game of the Euroleague.
The coach of Panathinaikos, Odent Katas, spoke about Wednesday's game with Real Madrid but also about whether his players have started to get acquainted with what he asks them to apply on the floor.
"I feel better every day, I get a better connection with the players and they in turn get a little more familiar with what we are trying to do. You always try to win. Of course we know that Madrid is one of the most difficult places to play. "Also the program of the last 10 days is difficult, especially since we are missing two important players," said Odette Katas.
As for the changes he expects to see in his team, the Israeli coach stressed:
"We have to start with the defense, to be more stable. At some points we are aggressive and annoy the opposing team. So I want us to be for longer periods. Especially when you play against high level teams like Real Madrid, you have to slow them down, annoy them and get them out of their rhythm. That is what we are trying to do. "
Finally, regarding the tall Real Madrid player, Walter Tavares, he said:
"It simply came to our notice then. In the final analysis when you play against big teams like Real and sometimes you have to take risks. You can not cover everything, you have to limit it and play smart against it. Against him you may be forced to take difficult, marked shots. You have to play smart and patiently against him. "
Apostolos Vaxevanellis