Nevil Dede cites crosses as decisive in Egnatia defeat to Universitatea Craiova

Universitatea Craiova defeated Egnatia 2-0 in a Conference League fixture at the Ion Oblemenco stadium. Following the match, Egnatia head coach Nevil Dede analyzed the defeat, acknowledging the specific tactical challenges posed by the Romanian side in European competition.

Dede stated that his squad experienced difficulties coping with the intensity and rhythm imposed by Universitatea Craiova. He specifically identified crosses as the opponent's primary strength and admitted that Egnatia's inability to neutralize these deliveries was the decisive factor in the result.

The Albanian coach conceded that his players made critical errors in key zones despite implementing precautionary measures against direct attacks. Dede emphasized that the opening forty-five minutes determined the outcome of the contest and suggested his team should have performed better during that initial phase.

Regarding overall performance, Dede noted that Egnatia possessed limited ball control and failed to exert adequate pressure on their opponents throughout the game. Despite the loss, he maintained that the team remains on track regarding their broader seasonal objectives.

Egnatia entered this European campaign as the reigning Albanian champions, having secured the last three domestic league titles which represent the first championships in the club's history. In the current Conference League standings, Egnatia have accumulated only two points from three matches, whereas Universitatea Craiova have reached seven points.