Interview with Neftchi midfielder Filip Ozobic for Futbolxeber.az
– Neftchi secured a win against Turan Tovuz in a match that had no impact on the standings. How tough was it to get this away victory?
– We knew it would be a tough match. Playing on an artificial pitch in Tovuz is always challenging, and it certainly was. Still, we managed to win, and we’re happy about that.
– Considering Neftchi no longer has a chance to qualify for European competitions, what motivates the team in the remaining rounds?
– True, our chances are gone. But we play for the name of Neftchi. We have to prove that we’re still in good form. Our goal is to win the last two matches and finish the season on a strong note.
– Despite having a sizable budget, this is the second consecutive year Neftchi has missed out on European competitions. What’s holding the team back?
– I can’t comment on the financial side. Neftchi is a big club. Naturally, we’re disappointed not to be in Europe. It hurts. We’ve had a tough and ultimately unsuccessful season—there’s no hiding from that. But at this point, it’s too late to talk.
– Do you think the team can bounce back next season and leave this disappointment behind?
– It’s too early to speak about next season. We still have two games left, and we must win them.
– The season in Azerbaijan will end with the cup final. On one side is your former club Qarabag, and on the other, Sabah—the team that knocked Neftchi out. Who would you like to see lift the trophy?
– Yes, I played for Qarabag for four or five years. But now I’m a Neftchi player, and this is the only team that matters to me. So, I don’t really care who wins the final. May the better team take the cup.
Idman.biz
