A Fantastic Night for Žilina: Captain Marek Okál on the Victory Over Liverpool

Credit photo: MŠK Žilina / Marek Okál

Marek Okál Marek Okál (17) is considered one of the standout talents of the Žilina Academy. He signed his first professional contract at just 15 years of age. During this season’s autumn campaign, he made nine appearances for the club’s B team in the Monacobet Liga, and his performances earned him a place in the first-team training setup. Just a few days ago, he celebrated a major success with his youth team by eliminating football giants Liverpool FC from the UEFA Youth League. Marek has been part of our football family for five years, and we are proud to have him on board.

*****

You led MŠK Žilina as captain against Liverpool in the UEFA Youth League. What went through your mind when you walked onto the pitch wearing the captain’s armband?

I imagined what it would feel like to win in front of a sold-out stadium. I believed in the team and that we were capable of beating Liverpool. When I saw the fans in the stands, it really pushed me towards victory.

Beating Liverpool 2–1 at home is a huge achievement. What do you think decided the match – tactics, team performance or mental strength? Liverpool scored as early as the 4th minute, but it didn’t break you.

I would say that team spirit was the key factor in winning the match. But we were also tactically disciplined and mentally very well prepared.

How would you describe the atmosphere at the sold-out home stadium? Did the fans help you in the key moments of the match?

The atmosphere was amazing, and the fans were our driving force.

As captain, what was your main role during the match? Was it more about communication, calming your teammates, or leading by example with your performance?

My role was to organize the game and communicate when needed, including with the referee. I also wanted to support that with my own performance.

You were playing against a club with an enormous name and history. Did you see it as extra motivation?

I think each of us saw it as motivation, and above all as an opportunity to measure ourselves against the very best in the world.

Is there someone in the team who pushes you the most, either on the pitch or mentally?

We all push each other forward. I don’t have one specific player who influences me the most – it’s a collective effort and a team process.

You recently took part in a training camp with the first team. What kind of reflection did that give you?

I was able to measure myself against high-quality players, and I believe I’m well prepared for senior football.

What does a typical week look like for you outside of matches? What are you currently working on the most – physically, technically or mentally?

I often have double training sessions, so I spend most of my day at the stadium. At the same time, I make sure to find some free time for myself and my friends. Right now, I’m focusing on improving my heading. The biggest progress I currently feel is my adaptation to men’s football. 

Is there a particular match or moment in your career that has shaped you the most so far?

Apart from this moment, the Elite Round at the U17 European Championship qualifiers meant a lot to me, as well as qualifying for the U17 Euros.

What are your personal goals for this season – both team and individual?

I would like to make my debut for the first team, play as many matches as possible at senior level and, above all, stay healthy. As a team, our goal at club level is to move up the table, and at national team level to qualify for the U19 European Championship.

Where would you like to move as a footballer in the coming years? Do you have a dream league or club?

In the coming years, I would like to become a regular first-team player. My dream league is LaLiga, and my dream club is Barcelona.

Finally – what message would you give to young players who dream today of playing against teams like Liverpool?

To keep working on themselves constantly, even during difficult times. I firmly believe that if they give everything to football, they can experience similar matches in their careers.

S&F