After winning Liga 1 with rivals Bhayangkara last year, recently acquired Indonesia international Ilija Spasojevic scored his first goal for Bali in the victory against Tampines, and the striker took time out to speak to the-AFC.com ahead of the one-legged second preliminary round clash in Chiangrai
Q. How happy were you with Bali’s performance against Tampines Rovers?
It was our first competitive match this season so I was very happy with our performance. I’m sure in time we can only get better as there are some new players in the squad and we need more time to really adapt to each other.
Q. You scored at a crucial time. How important was that goal to the team's confidence in the final 30 minutes?
After the first half ended 1-1, we had to attack early in the second half as we didn’t want to chase the win in the last minutes of the game. Luckily, everything went according to our plan.
Q. There was a huge crowd in to see the game. How much does that support help the team?
Indonesians are football fanatics, they are in love with football. I played for Bali Devata in 2011, so I know from before how great the fans are in Bali. Semeton [the fans] are definitely our 12th player.
Q. Next up are Chiangrai – what do you know about them and how difficult a task will it be?
We know they’re a quality team and I’m sure it will not be an easy game for us, but we aren’t going to Thailand for a holiday. We want to win and represent Bali and Indonesia in the best way possible.
Q. You signed from the champions Bhayangkara, what was it that convinced you to join Bali?
I had a great time in Bhayangkara, but I had already won the title and I needed a new challenge. Bali United was a clear choice as this club has it all: professional management, great coaching staff, quality players and amazing fans. Also, I started my career in Asia playing in Bali so it felt like coming back home.
Q. And as a goalscorer, is there added pressure on you in AFC Champions League matches such as these?
For a striker there is always pressure to score a lot of goals, but I like to play under pressure. I have scored 150 goals in 270 official matches in my career so far, and I hope to continue in the same manner.
Q. After spending a lot of time in Indonesia, how good does it feel to be back in AFC competitions this season?
It’s a great feeling to play in AFC competitions. Bali United already proved they are one of the best teams in Indonesia and it will be interesting to see how we deal with the best teams in Asia.
Q. Finally, what is it about Indonesia that has made you stay there so long?
I love everything about Indonesia. Indonesians are the kindest people you will ever meet, and the beauty of the country is breathtaking. Every day I feel blessed that I can call this country my home.
Photos: Bali United
