Czech clubs remain firmly in the race for silverware in the ETTU Europe Cup, with last year’s runner up SF SKK El Niňo Praha now just one step away from the final.
Their semi-final opponent will be a familiar one Roskilde Bordtennis BTK 61, a team they have met several times in recent years. But while past encounters often leaned in favour of the Czech side, this time the feeling is slightly different.
“In the past, we were the favourites against Roskilde. This year, it’s not so clear,” admitted coach Petr KAUCKÝ. “They have a very strong team and they are definitely in the semi-finals for a reason.”
The Danish side arrives stronger than before, having reinforced their squad ahead of the season. The addition of experienced Swedish player Anders ERIKSSON has brought extra quality and balance, making Roskilde a more complete and dangerous opponent.
For El Niňo, that means there is little room for complacency.
With both teams evenly matched, the semi-final is expected to be decided by fine margins, something KAUCKÝ is well aware of.
At the same time, the Czech side sees a potential advantage in the structure of the tie.
“Playing the second leg in Prague could be very important for us,” he explained. “Our hall is quite specific, and if it comes down to a Golden Match, that could really help us.”
The approach for the opening leg is therefore clear, stay close, stay competitive, and bring the tie back home in a strong position.
“We want to go to Denmark and get as many points as possible.”
El Niňo Praha have grown into the competition. They came through the Round of 16 against Enoli Borges Vall with confidence, and followed it up with another solid performance in the quarter-finals against TTC Sokah Hoboken.
With a strong lineup expected, including David REITŠPIES, Tomáš KONEČNÝ and Yevgen PRYSHCHEPA, the Czech side has both experience and quality at its disposal.
