Watch: Modica wants to see Ħamrun’s best version against Maccabi

Ħamrun Spartans coach Giacomo Modica has told his players to erase their low-key performances against Dynamo Kyiv and focus all their energy on displaying their best version of themselves against Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The Malta champions will face Maccabi in the second qualifying round of the Europa League, and although they start as the underdogs against the 26-time Israeli champions, there is a great determination to try to put on a strong showing in front of their fans at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Tuesday (kick-off: 7pm).

Ħamrun crashed out of the Champions League after identical 3-0 defeats to Dynamo Kyiv and Modica made it clear that he was not happy with his team’s display against the Ukrainian side and expects a reaction from his players.

“The European club competitions bring the best teams on the continent, and after the tie against Zalgiris, I expected the team to build on those performances,” Modica said.

“Against Dynamo Kyiv, it was clear that we were playing against a superior side, but our performance left much to be desired. We may have still lost the tie, but we should have done much, much better. We gave them too much respect, and I felt that we were not close to our potential. That is why I want my players to erase those performances.

“Now we have the chance to make amends against another strong side that is used to playing in European football. The most crucial factor for us is how we approach and apply ourselves in the match.

“I want the team to play without fear, and if we are to bow out of the competition, we need to do it with our heads held high. We should respect the badge on our shirt, the club, and the people that we represent, and respect our potential and ensure we give everything we have on the pitch.

“If Maccabi still proves superior to us, we will congratulate them, but we can’t give any presents to anyone.”

Present for the press conference was Ħamrun Spartans’ latest signing, Ante Coric.

The former Dinamo Zagreb and Roma attacking midfielder is relishing the prospect of playing for the Malta champions and is determined to help the club achieve the best possible result.

“In the past, I played with Dinamo Zagreb and Roma among others, which gave me some great experiences,” Coric said.

“I came here to Ħamrun Spartans to show all my potential and help the club reach all its objectives. We are facing a strong side in Maccabi Tel Aviv, and I am really looking forward to the match.

“My promise to our fans that we will give everything to try and go past them in this competition.”