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Popovic and Tedesco braced for special derby

Published: 24-11-2017 11:40
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Neighbouring rivals Valletta and Floriana lock horns for the first time this season when they meet in the final fixture of matchday 12 of the 2017-18 BOV Premier League at the National Stadium (kick-off 4pm).  The capital derby is one of the most eagerly-awaited matches of the Malta FA calendar and Sunday’s clash has taken on added significance as both Valletta and Floriana are challenging for the title. With 11 matches played, Valletta are sharing top spot with Gżira United and Balzan on 24 points, only one ahead of Floriana. The Malta FA Media and Communications team attended a training session of both clubs in the build-up to Sunday’s derby.   Valletta coach Zoran Popovic said: “This is a big derby. It will be a good weekend for the supporters. It will be a tough match for us but also for them. We have respect for Floriana but they must also respect us.” Giovanni Tedesco, the coach of Floriana coach, said derby matches are no ordinary occasions. “I’m convinced that derby is different from the other matches,” the Italian said. “It’s a special match where technique and tactics are secondary. It’s the pride and the heart that really count, the humility and the willingness to fight for every ball. “We are facing a very strong squad and therefore we know that we will encounter some difficulties but we are coming from a positive period and we are confident.” The expectations are high for both teams with Valletta chasing a win to stay top and bounce back from back-to-back goalless draws. Floriana, still unbeaten this season, will overtake their rivals in the standings if they take the three points on Sunday. The National Stadium is certainly the place to be on Sunday with two derby duels on the card... Tarxien Rainbows-Hibernians at 2pm followed by Valletta-Floriana at 4pm.