Torreense to Face Ararat-Armenia Without Malik Abubakari as Portuguese Coach Assesses Opponents
- Author: Vahe Hakobyan
- Sportaran
Portuguese side Torreense will be without striker Malik Abubakari for their UEFA Europa League Matchday 4 clash against Ararat-Armenia. The team's newly appointed head coach, João Nuno, confirmed the news during a pre-match press conference on November 4.
According to the coach, further changes to the lineup are also possible. The final decision on the starting eleven will be made after the last training session, taking into account the players' physical condition. Nuno did not specify the reason for Abubakari's absence.
Malik Abubakari has been Torreense's first-choice striker in the Europa League and has also scored two goals in four domestic league appearances.
The upcoming match will mark João Nuno's Europa League debut as Torreense head coach. The Portuguese manager took charge of the team just a few days ago.
João Nuno: "We Have Great Respect for Ararat-Armenia"
The Portuguese club's head coach emphasized that he does not consider the Armenian side an easy opponent, despite bookmakers identifying Torreense as the favorites.
Nuno noted that few people had expected his team to earn points before the tournament began, but the club has already exceeded initial expectations.
According to the coach, the main objective is to remain competitive in the remaining matches and continue representing Portuguese football with pride on the European stage.
The manager also commented on Ararat-Armenia head coach Manuel Tulipa, who previously worked at Torreense.
Nuno said he was familiar with Tulipa's time at the club, as well as the previous spells of current Ararat-Armenia players Benny Dias and Juan Balanta with the Portuguese side.
He wished his compatriot success in Armenia but stressed that his own team would be aiming for victory in the upcoming encounter.
Javi Vázquez: "It Will Be a Difficult Match"
Torreense defender Javi Vázquez, who also attended the press conference, said that the team is taking its Armenian opponents seriously.
The Spanish footballer explained that Torreense intend to play aggressively, apply high pressing, control the game and fight for all three points.
He also expressed confidence that Torreense are capable of competing for a place in the Europa League knockout stage.
The match between Torreense and Ararat-Armenia will take place on November 5 in Leiria, Portugal.
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