“A lot of players are capable of showing their best during matches when there is a lot at stake. These are the kind of games I have always enjoyed the most because they are the reason you start playing football as a child,” explained Christian Gytkjaer ahead of the Sunday clash with Legia Warsaw. The Dane is familiar with the atmosphere surrounding national derbies back from when he used to compete in the exhilarating clashes between Rosenborg and Molde.
The striker spent a year at the top-division Norwegian club. During his time at Rosenborg, he won a double and scored most goals during the season, including a few against the club’s biggest opponent. “I remember being unsure before one of the first Norwegian derbies whether I’d be a part of the starting line-up. At that time, I was still adjusting to the team. The two goals I scored against Molde gave me a motivational boost,” said the 28-year-old. “I also scored a goal in the away match against the same team and helped Rosenborg secure the championship,” added Gytkjaer with a smile.
The player admits that the Norwegian derbies differ from the Polish ones when it comes to atmosphere. “The rivalry between Lech and Legia is more intense and tougher. Of course, Rosenborg and Molde give their all when playing against each other, but the fans of the two teams can easily sit next to each other. The rivalry doesn’t seem to arouse the same emotions as the Polish derby,” explained Gytkjaer.
The Danish striker enjoys matches with a lot at stake. When playing for Rosenborg, he beat Molde’s keeper three times. Since he joined Lech, he has already scored once against Legia. “Every goal is important to me. However, in the context of the championship, it’s the goals scored against the biggest rivals that are most valuable,” emphasized Gytkjaer.
The footballer believes that it’s natural for the fans to await those clashes impatiently. “The pressure surrounding those games is usually created by the supporters. The two teams don’t hate each other, however, such matches are important for the players and the club. A win arouses immense pride. That’s what we want to feel like after the Sunday game,” added Gytkjaer.
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