“We had a tough season. There were interesting matches. We fulfilled the task of becoming champions, and I am happy about that. Of course, it wasn’t easy; we had losses and draws,” said Emin Kurdov, futsal player of Araz-Nakhchivan, Idman.biz reports.
The team captain evaluated the UEFA Champions League draw: “Our goal is to achieve good results in the Champions League. The draw has already taken place. We are the highest-ranked team in our group. So, on paper, Araz-Nakhchivan is the favorite. Now, we need to prove this on the field. We will start preparations at the end of July. We will have a good training camp and set off toward our goal.”
According to Kurdov, the next three matches are very important for his career: “On the road to the championship, I helped my team as much as I could. Our coaches mentioned it every time. Now, we must continue this on the international stage. As captain, I understand the responsibility and expectations from us. By the way, I renewed my contract with Araz-Nakhchivan and will remain with the national champion for another year. Among our opponents, we are familiar with Belfast Sparta, whom we faced last season and defeated 7-1. The champions of Scotland and Austria remain unknown to us. Before the games, the coaching staff will gather the necessary information and tell us how to play. In any case, our goal remains the same: to qualify for the main stage. We will do everything possible to achieve this and restore Araz-Nakhchivan’s former glory. Our squad is also being strengthened. Our new signings will join the team from the first day of preparation.”
Araz-Nakhchivan will play in Group F of the UEFA Champions League preliminary round against Northern Ireland’s Sparta, Scotland’s PYF, and Austria’s Ljuti. The group matches will take place in Austria from August 26 to 31. Only the group winner will advance to the main stage.
Idman.biz
