Peković after the draw: Kairat is one of the toughest rivals, it's up to us to make the most of it and try to play well

Sutjeska's players were unlucky in the draw for the first round of Champions League qualifying, as they were drawn against the champions of Kazakhstan - Kairat.

This is a team that was part of the elite last season, played in the group stage of the Champions League, and finished the competition in last place with one point from eight games. Kairat played against Sporting Lisbon, Real Madrid, Pafos, Inter, Copenhagen, Olympiacos, Club Brugge and Arsenal, and won its only point against Pafos.

And besides a quality rival, Sutjeska also has a long journey to Almaty. Also, Kairat is in a competitive rhythm, because the Kazakhstan league is underway, and Sutjeska's rival plays against Kizlizhar tomorrow (16) in the 17th round. Kairat has tied three matches without a win and is in second place in the table with four points less and a game more than the leader, Ordabasy.

So, it couldn't have been harder.

"Definitely one of the toughest opponents. They played in the Champions League last season, they are a team that has a quality player squad. There were easier opponents, but it could also be a plus for us - we have nothing to lose, we can go there and do everything to cause a surprise, because we believe in ourselves, we believe that with two or three reinforcements we can cope. Kairat is definitely the favorite, but we can try to cause a surprise. We believe in ourselves and our quality," Sutjeska coach Milorad Peković told "Vijesti" after the draw.

Sutjeska is the guest in the first match, while the return match is near Bistrica.

"It certainly won't be easy, but it's up to us to try to get the most out of a quality opponent and try to play well. To try to use our quality," said Peković.

The first round matches in the Champions League qualifiers are on July 7th or 8th, with the return matches on the 14th or 15th.