Scariolo: “We're up against one of the toughest sides”
“If we can stay focused and take the game to a close finish, we can have a chance of winning,” explained the coach.
Sergio Scariolo spoke to Realmadrid TV and discussed his side’s upcoming game against Monaco, on matchday 18 of the EuroLeague (Friday, 7.30 pm CET): “The team has trained quite well. We have some physical issues which, at this stage of the season, is normal. But in general we're in pretty good condition.”
“We're aware that we're going to play the runners-up in the EuroLeague. They are a nucleus with a lot of quality and efficiency, not only in attack but also in defence. They have been playing together for years and came so close to winning it last year.”
What are Monaco's strengths?
“They've managed to add a top player like Nicola Mirotić and two very experienced and efficient players like Nedović and Theis. We're talking about the highest level of competition you can face and that's why we have to have a lot of discipline, focus, patience and the ability to withstand frustration, because this is a team that can prevent you from scoring for three or four possessions in a row.”
The difficulty of the challenge ahead
“If we can stay focused, without losing confidence in our chances and take it to an even finish, we can have a chance of winning on one of the toughest courts and against one of the toughest opponents out there today.”