Sabah goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov believes the Baku-based side deserved at least a draw in their home match against Borussia Dortmund in the third round of the UEFA Champions League league phase.
As İdman.Biz reports, citing Kazakhstan-based outlet ASnews.kz, the goalkeeper shared his thoughts after Sabah’s 2-1 defeat.
"There are no emotions or energy left right now. We really wanted to avoid defeat at the very least, and I believe we had the chances to do so. But Borussia Dortmund are on another level – they are not Slavia Prague. I think we still put in a good performance for a debutant team and played well, especially in the opening minutes. We will keep going in the same spirit," Pokatilov said.
The goalkeeper also commented on his inclusion in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Week for the second round following the match against Slavia Prague.
According to Pokatilov, defenders and goalkeepers often have more opportunities to stand out in matches where their team is considered the underdog. However, he stressed that team results are far more important to him than individual recognition.
The 33-year-old also spoke about what it means to compete in the league phase of Europe's most prestigious club competition.
"It is 100% a dream. You could say it is an example for young guys in Kazakhstan who start their journey on ordinary neighbourhood pitches. It shows that dreams come true and anything is possible," the goalkeeper noted.
As a reminder, on October 20, Sabah lost 2-1 to Borussia Dortmund at the Baku Olympic Stadium. Despite the defeat, the Azerbaijani club put up a strong fight against their German opponents.
Sabah have three points after three rounds.
