BIbars Natcho: We have to show character against Sochi

Partizan trashed Novi Pazar away 4-1 and after four consecutive wins in opening four rounds, our team still leads the pack. Bibars Natcho opened the scoring late in the first half with his sharp and neat left-footed drive, a timely goal on an ever uncomfortable away ground. Now, Partizan awaits all-important Conference League round 3 reverse leg against Russians Sochi and we spoke to 33-year-old midfielder ahead of Thursday`s encounter.

“It`s completely different game as it`s a European competition. Team we play against is on our level. They will want to win but we are at home and we need to show character, our level and our playing style. Of course, to win and qualify for the next round”, said Natcho.

After Natcho`s opener, Urosevic, Ricardo and Soumah completed comprehensive Partizan win away to Novi Pazar.

“We knew Partizan rarely wins in Novi Pazar but we had our aims and knew what we wanted to achieve in this game. I`m happy we did what we wanted and won with four goals scored. Now, we have to keep things moving.

I scored a nice left-footed goal from long range and it changed the things around. It was easier after the break as home side opened up, tried to attack and we had more space to play”, said Natcho.

Game in Novi Pazar was halted four times and it had a bad effect on players.

“It`s not normal to play 60 minutes, pause 20 and play again. I was subbed but players who remained on the pitch found it hard, both mentally and physically. However, I`m happy we finished the game with no injuries. We scored four goals and that`s very important. We did the job in a great fashion, now we move forward”.

Natcho also spoke about VAR technology, now present at SSL matches.

“This is the second time we had to wait on VAR but on both occasions it proved our goals were regular, after the initial offside decision. That`s good for a football game but I hope it won`t take that long in the future. We had to wait 6 or 7 minutes for a final decision. But, it`s good to have VAR to start with”, said Natcho.