Slovakia coach Tarkovic relishes Euro party

SLOVAKIA coach Stefan Tarkovic believes there will be ‘euphoria’ surrounding today’s Nations League clash with Scotland after both countries sealed their place at Euro 2020.

Steve Clarke’s men are on a high after overcoming Serbia in a nervy penalty shoot-out in their play-off final on Thursday.

Slovakia needed extra-time to see off Northern Ireland in Belfast on the same night, winning 2-1 against Ian Baraclough’s side.

Tarkovic was parachuted in to take charge after former boss Pavel Hapal was axed despite leading Slovakia to victory against the Republic of Ireland in their play-off semi-final.

The 47-year-old will lead his country against the Scots this afternoon and the Czech

Republic on Wednesday.

‘It’s a Nations League match, we have both advanced to the Euro finals so there will be euphoria,’ said Tarkovic. ‘I personally believe it can be a very good match.

‘Every international match is important for every member of the national team. To represent your country is an honour, that is not a throwaway phrase. On Sunday, our players will start the match just like in Belfast, handing over the maximum effort.’

Scotland know a win against either Slovakia or Israel on Wednesday will be enough to win their section as they eye a pathway towards the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Slovakia are playing for pride having earned just a single point from four games so far in Group B2.

‘I do not address the past and weaker results of the national team, although it is necessary to learn from negative things and to build on the positives,’ added Tarkovic.

‘For me, the most important thing is we go to play two matches in which we can try something new, for players who have a chance to show up and fight for a place in the squad.’