Mariusz Jop ahead of #WISPOL: “I expect a fierce battle”

This Saturday promises another dose of excitement for Wisła fans! Before the 16th round of the Betclic 1 Liga clash between Wisła Kraków and Polonia Warszawa, head coach Mariusz Jop met with journalists at the pre-match press conference.

Asked about the key to victory, Jop stressed consistency in the team’s approach: “As usual, we don’t plan to change much in terms of our overall organization in every phase of play. Of course, in almost every match there are moments when we have to defend in a medium or low block for a certain time - but that’s also an important phase for us, because from there we can transition into quick attacks. That’s something we’ve used effectively before. We can expect to spend more time in positional attack than in deeper defensive phases this time.”

The coach also spoke about Frederico Duarte and his recent dip in form: “There are two key aspects - giving direction in training and offering support. Duarte has often helped the team, scoring important goals and providing assists, while also working hard defensively. Now he’s in a bit of a tougher moment, but he’s unlucky - hitting the post by 15 centimeters can be a matter of luck, not precision. What I appreciate most is that he’s working really hard in training and wants to turn things around. He’s a player we still count on and believe in.”

Jop praised Raoul Giger for his determination and defensive quality: “He found himself in good shooting positions in Głogów, but his main strengths are definitely defensive. He’s fast, strong in duels, and plays with great aggression and determination - a bit like old-school defenders. He gives us a lot in terms of individual defensive battles.”

When discussing Polonia Warszawa, Jop warned that the opponent is stronger than their results might suggest: “Polonia has more potential this season than last year. Their points total doesn’t reflect the quality they have. They’ve had injury problems, but now they’re improving and have won their last two matches. Like often happens with us, we’ll face a team that’s currently in good form. They’re dangerous from set pieces, have tall players, and perform better away from home than at home - which shows they can defend well and threaten on the counter. I expect a tight and difficult game tomorrow.”

The coach emphasized that the team’s approach doesn’t change depending on the opponent: “We prepare for every match the same way - it doesn’t matter who we play against. The process and mindset are always consistent, regardless of how many points we or our opponents have.”

Regarding Polonia’s top scorer, Michał Zjawiński, Jop explained: “Before every game, our players receive individual profiles of their opponents. We know Zjawiński’s style - how he moves, what he looks for, his strengths in aerial duels and finishing. He’s a fast striker who can use space and hold the ball well. But we don’t assign anyone specifically to mark one player. The team knows his characteristics and will pay attention, especially when defending set pieces.”

Finally, Jop revealed the plan for the upcoming international break: “The players will get some rest but also time to train. Next Saturday we’ll play a friendly against Odra Opole in Myślenice, as part of our preparations for the next league match in Siedlce.”