Doha: Qatar Stars League star Vladimir Weiss is set for a big summer when he joins his compatriots in the Slovakian national team who embark on their first ever European Championships.
The Al Gharafa attacker, will represent Slovakia in their debut bow in the tournament. “The European Championships is one of the biggest football tournaments in the world. Personally, I cannot wait to take part representing Slovakia in their first ever Euros, it will be history,” he said.
Weiss has been a crucial member of the Slovakian set-up in qualification, and is set for a starting place in the side. The attacker was the leading assist maker in qualification to the championships, and has insisted Slovakia’s qualification form can springboard the side out of the group phases.
“Our aim is to get out of the group. We won some important games in the qualifiers, including beating Spain at home, which gave the side confidence. We know we are the outsiders of the group, but we won’t make it easy for anyone.”
Slovakia are set to take on Wales and Russia in group B, however it is the side’s final clash against England in which Weiss is looking forward to the most.
“I have never played against England in my career, I know some players in the squad including Joe Hart. It will be a special game for me, playing in the tournament and against a side like England. It’s a game for three points and I am not there to see my friends, I am sure Slovakia can get a result we need,” Weiss added.
Al Gharafa’s number ten could inspire Slovakia to glory this summer. Weiss leads the way in a Slovakian side brimming with quality players. Providing Slovakia can make a solid start in group B they could well reach the knockouts and cause an upset to make Slovakia’s European Championship a memorable one.
Weiss, who created one of the biggest shocks of the January transfer window, moving from Lekhwiya, signed a four year deal with his new side. He has been one of the most constant performers in Lekhwiya, lifting two falcon shields with the Red Knights.
Despite the move, Weiss was quickly convinced to join the Cheetahs. “As soon as I knew about the interest with Al Gharafa I spoke with the management, they made assurances about the side and I was sure I wanted to sign with them.”
Weiss has quickly adapted at Gharafa this season, and has struck up a partnership with team mate Krisztián Németh along with head coach Pedro Caixinia who joined the side in Janaury. Weiss is sure that the trio can aid Gharafa in lifting the QSL title again.
“When I joined Lekhiwya i didn’t think I would be going to another club in Qatar, however Gharafa is one big family. Everyone at the club, the players the management and coach have welcomed me. We have improved in the second half of the season and we are building something here. I am convinced we can challenge for the title next season” admitted the twenty six year old.
The Peninsula
