Olympiakos departed from Athens on Thursday, heading to Munich, where they will face Bayern on Friday (21:45) in the Euroleague, aiming to bounce back with a win.
Giorgos Bartzokas, speaking during the team’s departure, noted:
“Bayern is a team that averages over 100 points at home, and right now, they are the No.1 team in points production and transition scoring. Therefore, we need to control the pace, avoid hasty decisions, and not allow them to play their game. These will be crucial factors for winning the match.”
Regarding whether it’s dangerous for Olympiakos to approach the game with Bayern like they did with Efes, he said: “It is indeed dangerous because we were very mediocre defensively in the game against Efes. We need to improve defensively in areas where we are currently lacking, such as rebounding and defensive transition… These are aspects we are working on in practice. And of course, the addition of more players helps us and will continue to help us.”
When asked about the possibility of William-Goss playing, he stated: “No, because he only had one team practice today, so it’s very risky to put him in. He’s coming with us because we will practice the day after the game, ahead of Sunday’s match.”
On the loan of Filip Petrusev, he commented: “I wish Petrusev good luck; it was his wish because he believes he will have more playing time and a role at Red Star. He was pushing for this direction, and his wish has been fulfilled.”
Fall: “Fournier Will Be a Key Player for Us”
Mustafa Fall also spoke about their upcoming opponent, the return of Nikola Milutinov, and his fellow countryman Evan Fournier.
When asked about Bayern Munich—who scored 97 and 109 points in their two home games this season—the French center said: “We know they are good in transition, so we need to make the right choices on offense and get back on defense quickly.”
Regarding whether Olympiakos will risk approaching the game with the German team in a “run & gun” style, similar to the game against Efes, he remarked: “Yes, because the second quarter against Efes was very poor; we allowed them to get into a rhythm, so now we need to control the game from start to finish.”
When asked about Milutinov’s return and whether it makes him feel more comfortable: “Yes, I always feel comfortable with him. First of all, I need to feel comfortable with myself. Now I’m gaining rhythm, finding my form…”
Discussing Bartzokas’s system: “It makes me feel good. This is my fourth season in this system; I need to pass the ball, which I’ve always enjoyed, so I feel very comfortable.”
On his compatriot Evan Fournier: “I don’t know about the next game, but Evan will be key for us throughout the season. He hasn’t played much in the last two years, but he’s slowly finding his rhythm. He’s constantly improving, and by the end of the season, his presence will be beneficial for us.”
