Matchday 3 in the Europa League sees SC travel to the city of Topola, located 80 kilometres south of the nation's capital, Belgrade. Former Freiburg man Milorad Pilipovic, who was born in Serbia but now lives in Germany, said "I'm happy that SC Freiburg are playing in Topola and that they can get to know this region." Pilipovic was raised on the outskirts of Topola.

Head coach Christian Streich enjoys getting to play in new countries and cities. "I'm very happy to get to be in Serbia with the boys and to be playing in the Europa League." Around 550 SC fans have made the trip to Topola in order to support their team.

Their opponents currently sit in third place in the Serbian Superliga, having started their Europa League campaign with a defeat at West Ham United and a draw against Olympiakos, where they came back from 2-0 down. Asked about TSC's recent results, Streich said "Every game in the Europa League represents a massive challenge. The boys will definitely not underestimate any of our opponents." The coaching staff has analysed both of Topola's matches in the competition this season, and have drawn the following conclusions: "They took a different tactical approach in each game. They are capable of playing different formations and, as a team, we're preparing for it as if it were just another Bundesliga game."

"Tough games" ahead

Philipp Lienhart, who took part in Wednesday's pre-match press conference alongside Streich, added "I think that they are strong both in attack and in defence and that they will change how they play against us in certain situations." Lienhart was also part of the squad that "did well against Bochum," according to Streich. When asked whether or not there will be any changes to his line-up due to the double-game week – SCF travel to face Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Bundesliga on Sunday – Streich once again kept his cards close to his chest. "We will see how those players that have just returned to the squad are doing."

Asked about the busy schedule of Bundesliga, Europa League and DFB-Pokal fixtures, Lienhart said "I'm obviously hoping to be able to play again. Recovery is always easier after a win, like we just managed against Bochum, and it also makes it easier to look forward to the next game." The team are naturally aware of the significance their upcoming two games against Topola, at home and then away, can have on their spot in the table. "We're all aware of what the table looks like and know what we can achieve in the next two games," said Lienhart. "But, we're well prepared for tough games."

Photo: SC Freiburg