Filip Jicha: "Our goal is the Main Round"
Filip Jicha: "Our goal is the Main Round"
Czech Republic is the first team to arrive in Serbia before the start of the EHF EURO 2012. They will be playing in Preliminary Group B in Nis, and will finish their preparation in Belgrade, and among other things they will play two games against Serbia. After their arrival in Belgrade, we spoke with their world-class star Filip Jicha:
"A week-long preparation is left. It's enough time to try some things and finalise our desired team form. We have three important games ahead of us in Nis, and we can't wait for the start. We are glad that we are here among Europe's elite."
ehf-euro.com: Are the games against home team Serbia going to help you in attaining good form?
Filip Jicha: The most important thing is that all the players remain healthy and that we begin the EHF EURO 2012 with a full squad available. The host can expect a brilliant atmosphere before the beginning of the championship.
As for us, we want to perfect the things we do at the training sessions. We know the Serbian team well, and we’ve played each other three times in various previous qualifications. I know all the players, and it will be a great test for both teams.
ehf-euro.com: What's your main goal at this European Championship?
Filip Jicha: Of course, qualification to the main phase of the tournament is what each of us wants. We want, first of all, to play good handball, as in Austria two years ago. It was a good tournament for us, and we reached 8th place.
I can't say we will be playing for sure in the main phase or semi-finals, but I think with good team spirit these rounds seem possible. I hope we will make it.
ehf-euro.com: You will play in a pretty even group. Practically, you can win all three matches, but you could also lose all three matches...
Filip Jicha: That’s correct. Such games we expect. Hard and even games. We will try to stay focused in all three matches, and we’ll see how it goes.
ehf-euro.com: Do you dream of playing at the Olympic Games?
Filip Jicha: We speak about it. The Olympic Games are a dream for every sportsman, including me. If we are to get to London we need to win lots of games, but there are lots of other "hungry" teams, especially where we play in Group B, and the group we cross with, Group A. It will be hard, but with good play, the Olympic Games are not an unrealistic target.
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