Tuba: “We have the same mindset we had in previous matches and to fight with all our might”

Panathinaikos faces Samsunspor tonight (21:00) at the OAKA, in the first match of the two teams with the backdrop of this year’s Europa League qualification.

The ‘green’ defender, Ahmed Tubahe interviewed Matchday Mag, talking about his team’s course so far in the summer qualifiers, and also stood on how he and his teammates should be presented so that they could qualify.

In detail what Panathinaikos defender said:



What night did you live with the great qualification on Shakhtar! How did you experience what happened in Krakow?

“It was an amazing night! We felt great that we got the qualification. After Rangers, and in the way we played, everyone recognized that we should have qualified. But there is nothing in football. So in combination with what happened to Rangers, the qualification to Shakhtar came at the perfect time. It gave us great satisfaction and at the same time relief because we secured the League Phase in the European Cups. It was something we wanted and it was very important to us. At the same time, however, it is equally important that we did it by playing well again. We didn’t get a goal against a great team like Shakhtar. I think we did a good job in both games. What happened, however, is not something of the moment but it is the result of the hard work we have done all the time. “.

Speaking about Panathinaikos’ effective defensive function against a team famous for its aggression and creativity, how did you manage to keep Shakhtar at absolute zero?

“We worked a lot! Every day in the stadium but also in the meeting with our coach and his staff. We saw a lot of videos, we knew the opponent well. It was done by all very good work. But it was not a matter of defense only, everyone helped -from the striker to the goalkeeper. I think this is the way to succeed and then ».

How did you live the agonizing penalty shoot -out?

“Penalty is always a stressful process. We felt it, Shakhtar felt it. It’s a moment! It doesn’t matter what preceded it, nor which team was better. It’s a matter of the moment. Of course, the goalkeeper can make the difference, as Drago did for us. But again, and at that time, we had the opportunity to finish it but we didn’t. So is football, so are the penalty shootout. But Drago came again and gave us another chance to finish the qualification. It was a process with a lot of stress because everything is judged in a moment. But in the end we smiled and that is the most important. “.

Did the overall good image of the team in the four games with Rangers and Shakhtar gave you more confidence in the face of continuity?

“Certainly! What I feel is that we have a very good team and a very good mindset. Everyone gives 100%. If we continue like that we can do great things ».

Difficult missions continue for Panathinaikos, this time against Samsunspor. What does the team need to reach its goal?

“The road is one: We have to have the same mentality we had in previous matches and continue to give it all on the pitch. There is no other choice for us. Beyond that, our way of playing will depend on the coach and the study of the opponent as we play with a different team. But our attitude does not change: We will fight with all our might! “.

Having fought in Turkey in the past, what do you know about Samsunspor?

“When I was in Turkey, Samsunpor was in the second category, but it is a well -known team. He has very fervent fans and invests in players. The fact that last season ended in third place, behind Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, says a lot and shows the team’s dynamics. “.

Return to OAKA for another European match. How did you live the experience of the first games in front of the Panathinaikos audience and what atmosphere do you expect against Samsunspor?

“The atmosphere in the first two games was amazing! We felt the power of our fans! They live with us every phase, even a good pass, a tackle, a shot. This is beautiful. We need them and I hope they come massively. They can give us a boost for a good game and a victory that will make us a little easier. In any case, we are ready to play two matches at 100% to bring the qualification. “.

You’re young in Panathinaikos, you came … quietly but your adjustment was immediate and with a very positive impact on the stadium. How do you feel in the team?

“It was important that I came from the first day of preparation. I got a job right away. I had time to get to know all my teammates and understand their game and what the coach wants from me. I knew my job and gave my best. I prefer to come quietly and show on the court what I can do than to appear as a star and then not playing, possibly considering that I am more important than the team. I prefer this way … “.

How is the collaboration with Rui Vitoria?

“I like the way he works. As I like the job done with videos. We go out on the pitch and know the opponent well. But we also see our own mistakes or the right ones we do in the game. This is how we learn, change and improve. I also like the very good climate created in the team. Everyone comes to training with a smile. Something that shows everyone enjoying it ».

What are your goals with Panathinaikos? Do you feel they can be achieved?

“Certainly! In football, of course, many factors play a role. So you can never be sure. But as I said, with the right mentality we can get positive results. There are many goals when you are in Panathinaikos: Europe is important, the cup is important and of course the championship is important. We know that fans want the championship above all and we will work hard for it. We will fight for all three events, with the right mentality ».

How do you experience in Athens in the first months?

“I enjoy life a lot here. I have lived in Istanbul, Brussels, Italy. In different cities. Athens is top. The difference here, compared to other cities, people do. They are calm, smiling, they speak English, they make you feel comfortable from the first moment. This stands out. “.