There is no doubt that Slovakia is one of the sides in this European Championship, that can easily transform into one of the tournament's underdogs. They managed to pull off what England wasn't able to do, which is defeat the Russian team. Granted that they were completely tired during the second half, the effort they made holding their ground against the Russian opposition, is something that will be remembered for a long time in the country.
One of the team's goal scorers and match hero, Marek Hamsik, wanted to send his teammates a message through the press: "Of course we're very happy for this first big win for Slovakia, we're very proud. Maybe now we've opened the gates to the last 16. I think I did well, I'm very proud to have scored such a goal. I collected Vladimir Weiss' corner and it was brilliant."
Before playing against England in the last match of the group, Hamsik confirmed they will be very focused on watching them play against Wales next Thursday: "We'll see about England's match with Wales but we don't have to be too interested in their results. We have four or five days to prepare for that game against the big favorites in the group. I'm sure it will be tougher than these matches."
About the Russians, Hamsik added: "The Russians were really strong on the ball, had more possession and were very good at counter-attacks, but also leaving maybe some more space in defense. In the second half, we were sitting deep all the time but we held on to the result and we're very happy."
Photo credit: UEFA EURO 2016