Zadar basketball players play against Dubai in round six of the ABA League on Monday at 16.30. It is a visit to a newly formed but exceptionally powerful team assembled for high ambitions.
Zadar started their away run in Dubrovnik, where they justified their status as favourites and demonstrated their strength. However, they now face a completely different challenge. Dubai is a EuroLeague team and the absolute favourite in this encounter, while Zadar finds itself in the underdog position.
Zadar coach Stipe Modrić is aware of the opponent's strength. "We know what kind of opponent we are facing, which names are playing down there. But that is the charm of this basketball. We will give everything we have in our power and, if we see a chance, I hope we will seize it with both hands and try to win the game," Modrić said.
Zadar will play this encounter without their best player Vladimir Mihailović, who also missed the game against Dubrovnik. Mihailović is expected to be ready for the game in Subotica against Spartak. Despite his absence, Zadar's chances in Dubai are the same with or without him.
Dario Drežnjak highlights the quality of the opponents. "I think we are all aware of what kind of team it is. They are assembled to compete for the title in the EuroLeague. There is no need to spend many words on their players, they even have a surplus of players. We will give our maximum and try to get points," Drežnjak said.
For any surprise, Zadar would need perfect shooting. A potential EuroLeague scalp would further cohere the team and be a great boost for the rest of the season.
