Thorup: Derby will be 'intense' for everyone
F.C. Copenhagen head coach Jess Thorup is expecting an "intense" clash with Brøndby on Monday in the first derby of the Danish Superliga's Championship Round.
We expect a full house in Parken for the arrival of Brøndby at 4pm, with Thorup's troops sitting six points clear at the top of the table.
Thursday's 3-1 defeat to Silkeborg ended FCK's winning start of the spring.
And Thorup is determined to forget about that result and focus all energy on a high-profile derby against a BIF side yet to claim a point in the Championship Round.
"We have processed that match (vs Silkeborg) and put it behind us quickly, so we have been able to stay focused on the derby," says Thorup.
"We know that it will be intense and a match with lots of physicality to it, so we must be ready for a big performance both physically and tactically."
'We will give everything'
FCK beat brøndby 4-2 in Parken earlier in the season and Thorup is hoping for another emphatic display.
"I won't dare promise that this game will be as goal-dominated as the previous one, but I can guarantee that we will give everything to get another victory," says Thorup.
"We know that this is a very important match for all FCK fans, just as it is of course important in relation to our end result this season."
More than 33,000 fans are expected to break the attendance record for a Superliga clash in Parken this Monday – although there will be no BIF supporters present on the request of police. And Thorup is looking forward to the atmosphere that awaits the players.
Wide squad can make the difference
"It's always best when there are fans from both clubs because it gives a special dynamic to the game," says Thorup.
"But I know our fans will create a great atmosphere, even though it might be a little different than usual for the first half hour or so. I'm sure we'll probably take a lot of energy from the supporters no matter how it plays out.
"As I mentioned, we expect an intense match, and an opponent who will do anything to make it difficult for us. But we're focused on how we can create a match on our terms and set the agenda. If we succeed in that, then I know we have the quality to get three points.
"At the same time, we also have some good opportunities to make changes along the way, as we have a wide squad of players who can come in and make a difference."
The club recommends fans arrive well in advance of the match, in order to avoid queues at the turnstiles. Our fan pop-up area will be accessible from 1pm.