Defender of the Azerbaijan women’s national football team, Nigar Mirzaliyeva, has won the Russian Super Cup with Zenit. The Saint Petersburg club defeated Lokomotiv Moscow 3-0 in the decisive match.
The 23-year-old footballer, who has been playing for Zenit since 2022, is considered one of the team’s key players, Idman.biz reports.
She frequently makes it into the Russian league’s team of the week. Having now won the Russian Super Cup for the second time with Zenit, Mirzaliyeva also claimed the league title in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Zenit currently leads the standings in the ongoing 2025 season.
In an interview with the official AFFA website, the national team player shared her thoughts on recent successes and her future plans.
– How does it feel to win the Russian Super Cup?
– This is our second time winning the Super Cup in Russia, and we’re very happy. We prepared seriously for the match against Lokomotiv, just as we did for previous games. The girls and coaching staff played a huge role in this success. As a team, we showed great character and secured the win.
– What was the most memorable moment for you in the match against Lokomotiv?
– For me, the most unforgettable moment was how we showed collective character as a team. The first half ended in a goalless draw, but in the second half, we followed the coach's instructions, played with determination, and came out victorious.
– Taking your time at Rubin into account, you've now spent four years playing in Russia. What do you attribute your consistent performances to?
– I’m currently in my third season with Zenit. I have a great passion for football, and I think my success is due to that. If you truly love what you do, you’ll succeed. I love my job and take training seriously. That helps me perform well. I’ll continue to do everything necessary to maintain consistency both with the national team and Zenit.
– What are your future plans? Considering you're only 23, do you hope to play in bigger leagues?
– Of course, playing in bigger leagues would be amazing. I want to be the first Azerbaijani woman to play in the top football nations of Europe.
– Have you received offers from clubs in those countries?
– I’ve received offers from some clubs. Zenit has also offered me a new contract. But I’m still thinking about it. If I receive an offer from one of Europe’s top clubs, I will definitely consider it.
– How do you evaluate the development of women's football in Azerbaijan?
– Women’s football in Azerbaijan is just beginning to develop. We are already achieving some success. We fight for our country and our flag.
– The women’s national team will compete again in the UEFA Nations League in 2026. What are your goals this time?
– Next year in the Nations League, we’re aiming for a successful performance. Regardless of which teams are in our group, we’ll prepare seriously and strive to win. Our goal is to top the group. I believe in our team — we can do it.
Idman.biz
