(foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
The Serbian national football team lost 1-0 in their opening match of the European Championship against England.
Dragan Stojković's squad showed they deserved to be at
Euro 2024 in Germany, playing a great match against
England despite the loss.
Stojković made a surprising decision to leave Dušan Tadić on the bench. The Serbian captain entered the game in the 60th minute, replacing Aleksandar Mitrović. His introduction helped connect Serbia's play towards the end of the match.
"I think we missed a big opportunity. They gave us space throughout the game, there were gaps between the lines, and we could have punished them in both the first and second halves. They offered chances, we could have taken them, and it remains a regret," Tadić told RTS.
He, like coach Stojković, was saddened by the loss.
"Yes, we knew right away that we would have a chance against them. They didn't press the ball, we had free balls, and I think we could have threatened and hurt them. We had many opportunities. Maybe not clear-cut chances, but I think we could have been dangerous. Now we need to focus on the next match and try to win."
Dušan Tadić was a substitute against England.
"It's hard, honestly hard. I spoke with the coach, we have communication, but it was difficult to accept because we were playing against England. I'm a leader, the captain, and I believe I'm the best player on this team. Of course, I think I should have started, but I respect the coach's decision. I think I could have done more in 90 minutes. If he says I should play 30 minutes, then I'll play 30. But okay, we move on. It's not about the individual, it's not important. What's important is that we move forward, that's the only true measure. We have great unity and we will do everything for it."
The crowd supported the Eagles fantastically...
"Yes, the crowd was phenomenal. We really enjoyed it. We knew we would have support, especially now in Munich. They really gave us a boost, helped us a lot, and I'm sorry we didn't bring them joy."
The next match is against Slovenia on Thursday.
"Good analysis, good recovery, we need to prepare for the next match. I watched Slovenia and Denmark, they are quite tricky. When they scored, they could have scored another. So, I think it's a shame. I believe we can hurt them, it won't be easy, but we need to recover."
Tadić believes in the Eagles.
"No, I've always been optimistic from the start, I think it's a duty. So... I hope we will achieve it, step by step, that's the most important thing."