Reis hails Trabzonspor’s quality after hard-fought KuPS win

Thomas Reis said Trabzonspor had to work hard for their 4-2 victory over Finnish side KuPS in the opening round of the league phase of the UEFA Conference League.

Trabzonspor appeared to be in control after building a 3-0 lead, but KuPS were awarded a penalty in the 57th minute and threatened to change the course of the match.

The spot-kick was saved by Onana, keeping Trabzonspor two goals ahead at 3-1. Reis said the outcome could have been very different had the penalty been converted.

“The win was not easy,” Reis said in comments reported by Turkish outlet 61saat. “We played in exceptional circumstances and experienced changing weather conditions, but we fought fiercely.”

He added: “We scored our goals at the right times. After going 3-0 up, we felt the match had been decided. But after the penalty, the game changed and KuPS showed great fighting spirit. I also congratulate them.

“If the penalty had been scored, the match would have taken a different direction.”

Reis also praised the quality within his squad, saying the individual ability of his players had played an important role in the team’s strong start.

“We have a high level of quality in our squad,” he said. “When you look at the names of our players, you can see that there is very high quality. The individual standard of the players is excellent, and everything is going well for us at the moment.”

Trabzonspor’s performance was also boosted by Salah, who started despite doubts over his involvement because of the artificial playing surface.

Salah was substituted in the 55th minute, but had already made a decisive contribution by scoring one goal and providing an assist. His involvement helped Trabzonspor secure their first three points in the league phase of the UEFA Conference League.

Reis also offered an update on striker Onuachu, who was forced off after scoring a notable goal.

“I hope he returns soon,” said Reis. “His injury was unfortunate. He scored a great goal, and I hope he will not be out for long.”