Shahrudin Mahammadaliyev, the goalkeeper of the Azerbaijan national team, gave an interview after the match against Bulgaria.
Idman.biz reports that he commented on the performance of the team within the framework of the FIFA series – Edition 2024 project.
- We played the first game against the Mongolian team. Let's admit that the opponent's level was not that high. We would like to face opponents as strong as Bulgaria. Although we created many scoring chances in this match, we were able to stand out in the end. No need to say, we saved the game in the end. They were more defensive and relied on counter-attacks. We could even win.
- What did the two games contribute to Azerbaijan?
- Today's game gave Azerbaijan self-confidence. We have shown that we can play against strong opponents. We proved this in the matches against Sweden and Austria. It is true that we lost to the Belgian team with a big score. This is an event that can happen to many teams. But the current squad is quite strong. In particular, our players from Qarabag performed well against Braga and Bayer. Team members like Elvin and Toral fought head-to-head with strong opponents. We need to believe. I would like more fans to come to the stadium and support us. It's true, fans can't be blamed for that either. Everything depends on us. It is necessary to get better results and get them to come to the stadium.
- In your opinion, what is the reason why fans do not come to stadiums?
- We are the first reason. If the fans don't come to the games, it's our fault. I can cite Qarabag as an example. As the team gets better results, fans fill the stands. Today, in the cold, I would prefer to sit at home in front of the TV and watch football. I don't blame them.
- Georgia has not achieved what our country has done at the club level. Instead, their team can go to the European Championship.
- We are not behind them. We are not even weaker than Kazakhstan. It needs some time. It takes a lot to be successful. It does not depend on 1 or 2 factors. If we look at the Georgian team, all players play abroad.
- Our football players also play outside the country...
- Look at the clubs where they play. There are players who play in leading European championships. We need some time.
- What has changed in the team after De Biasi's departure?
- Arif Asadov worked with an Italian specialist. Today, Arif Asadov also uses De Biasi's tactics. As before, we preferred a 4-2-1-3 formation. It is true that Mr. Arif made some additions. I think the team played a good game today.
- When watching the games of Qarabag, do you feel sorry for leaving the team?
- No. Of course, I am very happy with the success of Qarabag. In particular, I was watching the home match against Braga with my teammate. He could feel my excitement.
- Sometimes you face criticism when you make mistakes, how do you feel about it?
- The position of the goalkeeper is such that any mistake attracts attention. And I like to take risks. I realize my mistakes. It is still hard to forget the mistake in the game against Vikroria (Plzen). I made a really serious mistake. Others are difficult to explain. Sometimes I missed balls that I could have returned in 100 shots.
- Gurban Gurbanov always supported you. So, what is the situation in Adana Demirspor from this point of view?
- There is a huge difference. You can't compare Gurbanov with anyone else. Both as a person and as a coach. Not only me, but everyone thinks so about him. You are not following the training process. After unsuccessful results, he gives special attention and support to everyone.
- In your opinion, should the head coach of the national team be local or foreign?
- It is very difficult to answer this question. I am ready to do my best for the collection. It doesn't matter who the head coach is, let the main team win a good result. At present, an excellent generation is playing in the national team. Musa performs in Sweden, Ramil, Renat in Turkiye. After that, I can mention the players of Qarabag. I believe that we will get a successful result.
Banuchichek Huseynli
Idman.biz
