Pink Ladies Cup: Black Queens coach Björkegren focused on victory ahead of Hong Kong friendly
Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has emphasised that despite the experimental nature of the camp, the team’s focus ahead of their international friendly against Hong Kong remains on securing a win.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Björkegren provided a detailed scouting report, noting: "I've watched four or five games. They have probably played some more games in the past. But we know them well, I would say, from the videos."
Acknowledging the competitive nature of the fixture, he pointed to FIFA rankings: "I know they have a similar FIFA ranking to us. I think it's 72, so a little bit higher. But I expect a close game."
Drawing on his experience coaching in Asia, he offered a tactical assessment: "I've been working in Asia. I've been playing against a lot of Asian teams as well. I know that they normally are very good when it comes to technique. They don't miss any passes. They are very clean. They are normally well organised, I would say as well."
Björkegren also highlighted a physical advantage for the Black Queens.
He said, "I know this team has a couple of tall players. But otherwise, I expect us to be a little bit physically stronger. And hopefully, in the best scenario as well, better."
Despite the friendly nature of the match, he stressed the team’s sole intent was victory.
"We're going to do everything to win it, even if I know it's a friendly game. I hope and expect us to win," he said.
The camp has been an opportunity to reconnect and integrate new players.
Speaking after his second day with the squad, Björkegren said: "Great hotel, good facilities, good pitch, perfect weather for football. So, nothing to complain about. It's so nice to catch up with the staff and the players."
He noted the importance of meetings and recalibration, particularly for the inclusion of six new players.
"There have been a few meetings, of course. We haven't seen each other for a pretty long time. It's a lot to inform the new ones, to repeat for the ones that have been with the team for a while now. But back to some basics... now it's just to bring them back in our Ghanaian style," he said.
On the newcomers, Björkegren explained: "For this camp, we have six new players, actually. They're here to prove themselves, to do their best and see if their potential can help us in the future."
He emphasised his flexible approach as coach, saying: "For me, it's always good to be open-minded, to be flexible to see new players."
Regarding training, he acknowledged the impact of travel on the squad, many of whom arrived from Mexico and the US.
"It's maybe like a 16-hour flight. So, to perform on the same day or the day after, it's almost impossible, I would say. But I expect a little bit more from the training today," he said.
The Black Queens are preparing for their first match against Hong Kong in the Pink Ladies Cup on Saturday.
Source: classfmonline.com
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