Eintracht captain Sebastian Rode returns to the squad against Olympiakos Piraeus for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in August, but will not yet play from the start. Coach Oliver Glasner is calling for a “cool head” after the at times confused performance against Hertha BSC.
Glasner’s respect for the Greek champions and league leaders from Piraeus is enormous. “They have only conceded one goal from play, all the others were goals conceded from standards. They are a very well-organised team that always switches quickly, but also finds good solutions in possession. I expect a very difficult game,” the coach analyses.
He expects his professionals to keep their cool even after possible setbacks in the game – unlike the recent 1:2 against Hertha. Glasner explains: “The quick deficit led to us becoming hectic and wanting to score the equaliser very quickly. As a result, we made a lot of mistakes and became even more insecure. We need a cool head and confidence in our strength. Then it will certainly be a game of equals over 90 minutes. “
It remains to be seen how extensive the changes to the first eleven will be. It would be obvious to replace the recently disappointing Sam Lammers, Jesper Lindström and Jens Petter Hauge with Rafael Borré, Goncalo Paciencia and Daichi Kamada. The defensive line-up will depend not least on whether Glasner opts for a three-man or four-man defence.
For the coach, however, it is clear that he will not suddenly change everything: “It is important not to throw everything overboard and question it. It’s not like we’re going to reset everything and start all over again, but gradually adjust the little cogs in the offensive game and in the defence.” The games against Olympiakos and on Sunday in Bochum will show whether this is enough to turn the trend around. There must be a clear improvement in performance, otherwise turbulent times are looming in the Stadtwald. The next two and a half weeks until the next international break could set the tone for the rest of the season.
