Sabah Coach Dambrauskas Embraces Underdog Role Ahead of Be'er Sheva Clash

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League playoff second leg on Tuesday evening, Sabah coach Valdas Dambrauskas spoke to Sport 5 about his team's chances against Hapoel Be'er Sheva. The match, set for 19:45 with live broadcast on 5SPORT, will determine if Be'er Sheva advances to the Champions League group stage for the first time. Sabah lost the first leg by two goals but remain optimistic.

Dambrauskas reflected on the first match, noting that Sabah played well in the first half but conceded a goal due to bad luck. He credited Be'er Sheva for controlling possession and scoring a deserved second goal. Despite the deficit, he emphasized that Sabah has "nothing to lose" and that playing at home gives them an advantage. He acknowledged the challenge of playing in empty stadiums without fan support but praised his players' ability to handle pressure.

The coach stressed that a one-goal deficit is manageable and recalled his previous experience in 2021 with Ludogorets, where he faced a two-goal deficit in a playoff second leg but ultimately did not advance. This time, he feels more experienced and confident in his squad's ability to perform. Dambrauskas also mentioned the role of luck, noting Be'er Sheva benefited from it in the first leg, and hopes for some fortune to aid Sabah in the return match.

The game is a historic opportunity for Be'er Sheva to reach the Champions League group stage, while Sabah aims to overturn the scoreline on home turf. The coach's remarks highlight a determined mindset despite the uphill battle.