Coaching duet: Wisła - Stal Rzeszów

The traditional match recap was provided by the coaches of Wisła Kraków and Stal Rzeszów, who met with journalists at a press conference. Here are a few words from Mariusz Jop and Marek Zub.

Marek Zub - Stal Rzeszów

"It wasn't a good match for us. From my perspective, we definitely couldn't get into our rhythm, our way of playing, from the start. Furthermore, we made a colossal number of mistakes, which, given the high quality and footballing skills of Wisła's players, were quickly exploited. This is especially true since the first goal definitely influenced – in my opinion – our behavior on the pitch. What happened next. History repeated itself right after the break, after two quick goals, and you could say that the history of this phase of the Polish Cup was over. We had the right to dream a little, but we have to postpone those dreams until next year. Thank you very much for your attention," he began.

In Thursday's match, the Kraków team had the upper hand, as reflected in the scoreline. The visitors responded with a single goal, as the coach assessed: "There was a moment, after, or even before, our goal, where we had a chance to write often cup scenarios. It was essentially the only moment where we showed even a fragment of what we're capable of. I deeply regret it, because this adventure is particularly important for every team, and especially for the team whose profile we were able to present here. But I'll repeat what I said in my assessment of the match – a quick goal and then that 4-1 goal sealed the match and closed it out. We had a small moment where you could say we could see what we can play as a team at the moment, but it wasn't enough to attempt any greater drama in this match and create a bigger problem for Wisła in terms of advancing to the next round."

When asked if the change in Wisła's coach affected Stal's preparation for the match, "No. I don't think so. Wisła is a well-established team, in my opinion, in terms of their sporting and footballing level. I'm particularly referring to their individual members and each of the players currently playing and having the opportunity to represent the club. This is so high that it seems to me, and this is how I approached it before the match, that the change in coach is obviously important, because a new person in the locker room, a "new broom," new hopes, new decisions – that's certainly important, but we didn't take it into account. We expected that Wisła would be, in this situation, in some way, additionally determined and motivated, because I'm convinced that a defeat in today's match would be a real problem. We definitely wanted to create this problem, I won't deny it, but unfortunately, what counts are goals and the quality of the team on the pitch," he concluded.

Mariusz Jop - Wisla Kraków

"I think we achieved what was most important today, which was to win. Besides, we definitely wanted to play spectacularly, play boldly, take a risk, and that risk paid off. We scored four goals, so we're happy with the match," he concluded briefly. "We did indeed have a lot of high-range tackles. It was definitely a bit easier for the players because we moved one player higher. We changed the formation a bit. That was the nuance I was talking about, and it paid off. Of course, it's risky, but I think there are enough good players here in both attacking and defensive duels that it's worth taking advantage of that risk. And we did create a lot of chances after high-range tackles," he analyzed.

When asked if such a big win would help the R22 players approach their final two matches with more confidence, he replied: "I think every victory builds and adds to their confidence. I think there were moments among these players when they lacked confidence, and a match like this gives them a good mental boost, so I hope the players will stay focused and I'm convinced they'll be 100 percent ready for Sunday."

The Wisła coach also briefly outlined the plan he had established before the match against Stal. "We focused on a few minor adjustments when it came to defending. The players in the number six and number eight positions had slightly different assumptions when it came to building up. There were some tactical nuances that were introduced. I was also curious to see if they would work, and in many cases they did, but not always, as there were a few mistakes. A few times, the players didn't quite understand what we were trying to achieve. They were a bit late here and there, but those were the things that worked. There was no need to clear their heads, because the players were very focused and had plenty of motivation, especially because they felt they had played poorly in the last match. But the situation after the match, related to Coach Sobolewski's resignation, was a stimulus for many of them, thanks to their respect for the coach and the staff. It also motivated them to do a lot for this club, for Wisła, for the team." That's how I perceived it too," he continued.

There was also a question about the attitude of Dawid Szot, who started the scoring spree. "Dawid is a player who has a real footballing feel in front of goal. He's a player who's physically well-prepared. He always works 100 percent, and today that work paid off. He ran forward many times, joined the attacking action – he brilliantly followed up the action after his interception and scored. Dawid didn't need any special motivation. He's a guy who's very aware and works hard to play," he said.

Can we expect a change in Wisła's goalkeeping, and will Kamil Broda be in charge on Sunday? "Indeed, Kamil is a good goalkeeper, I rate him highly. I've also had the opportunity to see him in the reserve team several times this season. He's always a very well-prepared, focused player. He's also shown quality in cup matches. As for the goalkeeping staff, it would certainly be good if the players in that position didn't find out who was going to play from the press conference, but the first, second, and third goalkeepers are all top-notch," he said.

Bartosz Talar was also asked to evaluate his performance: "Bartek, like the entire team, played a good match. He also clearly understood the adjustments we wanted to make, having been in the reserve team several times. And, like Kamil Broda, he's an example of a professional who remains focused regardless of whether he's playing for the reserves or the first team. He's been waiting a long time for this match and already showed his strength in the previous cup match. Today, he sealed it with a goal. I'm very happy that those who work hard reap the rewards."