Losada and Brandon: “We want to keep the tie open ahead of the second leg”

Apollon head coach Hernan Losada and forward Brandon Thomas represented the club at the pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday first leg against Brann in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.

Losada described the encounter as a major challenge against a side that has established itself on the European stage in recent seasons.

“I’m happy to be in Norway for the first time. Thanks to football, we have the opportunity to visit new countries and take part in important matches like this. Brann had an outstanding European campaign last season, and that is reflected in the significant transfers they have completed, with players moving to top leagues. That says a lot about the quality of our opponents.”

The Argentine coach stressed that Apollon must remain fully competitive and give themselves every chance ahead of next week’s return leg in Limassol.

“Having the second leg at home could be an advantage, but first we have to produce a good performance here. We know the intensity Brann play with, their pressing and their energy. There will be moments when we have to defend, but we must also be brave and stay true to the playing identity we have been building over the past six or seven months.”

Losada also expressed his appreciation for the Apollon supporters who made the long trip to Norway.

“The support of our fans, who travelled such a long way to be with the team, is something truly special for all of us.”

Speaking about the tactical approach, he explained that his side must strike the right balance when facing Brann’s aggressive pressing.

“We have to find the right balance between being brave and managing the moments when Brann try to press us, especially early in the game. There are different ways to beat that pressure, whether by playing in behind or building from the back. We have to recognise the right option in every situation. If you break their press effectively, a lot of space opens up to create chances. It’s all about balance. We don’t need to take unnecessary risks, but at certain moments we have to be brave if we want to leave here with a positive result.”

Asked about Brann being in the middle of their domestic season while Apollon are only at the beginning of theirs, Losada acknowledged the difference but remained confident.

“It’s true that Brann have already played 16 league matches and that’s an advantage. On the other hand, we had more time to prepare for this game, while they played only two days ago. When you put everything on the scale, only the match itself will show who really has the advantage. I fully believe in my team and I think that in games like these the chances are always fifty-fifty.”

When questioned about Brann’s recent departure of midfielder Felix Myhre, Losada insisted it would not affect his approach.

“It’s an important loss, but Brann have enough quality players to replace him. They are a team with a very clear playing philosophy and you can easily recognise the coach’s work. I don’t believe the absence of one player changes the level of difficulty of the match.”

On the expected weather conditions in Bergen and the warmer temperatures awaiting Brann in Cyprus, Losada dismissed the idea that the climate would play a decisive role.

“If it rains, even better. I always enjoyed playing in the rain when I was a footballer. The pitches here are excellent and I don’t think the weather will have a major impact on the game. Our first objective is to keep the tie open after tomorrow’s match. If the conditions in Limassol make things more difficult for our opponents, that’s a bonus. But in modern football, professional players adapt well and I don’t believe the weather will decide the qualification.”

The Apollon coach also ruled out revealing his starting line-up or discussing transfer business.

“I will never announce my starting eleven before a match. The same applies to transfers. Right now, I only want to talk about the players who are here with us.”

From the players’ side, Brandon Thomas expressed confidence ahead of the first leg.

“We’re very happy to be here and to play in such a fantastic stadium. We know we’re facing a very good team and it will be a difficult match, but we believe in our potential and in the progress we’ve made over the last six or seven months.”

The Spanish striker highlighted the strong unity within the squad.

“We have a fantastic group of people. We believe in each other, in the coaching staff and in the work being done at the club. We expect a difficult game, but we’re ready and we want to enjoy it together with our supporters.”

Asked about the possibility of facing PAOK in the next round, Brandon Thomas made it clear that the team’s focus is entirely on Brann.

“I’m not thinking about anything beyond tomorrow’s game. It’s the only thing that matters to us right now. If such a match comes in the future, I’ll be happy to see people I care about again, but today our only focus is Brann.”