Interview with Artim Sakiri, former Qarabag player, ex-captain of the North Macedonia national team, and former head coach of Shkendija, for Sportal.az
– Qarabag will face Shkendija in the third qualifying round of the Champions League. What are your thoughts on this match? How do you assess the chances?
– This match will be interesting for both teams. We’ll witness great games. The team that makes fewer mistakes will win. I think the chances are 50/50. Watching these two teams play is quite exciting.
– Shkendija defeated FCSB in both legs of the second qualifying round. Was that unexpected for you?
– FCSB were the favorites in that matchup. But modern football is different. In the current situation, the team that wants it more, plays harder, and makes fewer mistakes ends up winning. In my opinion, Shkendija deserved to advance.
– Qarabag will likely be considered the favorite. Do you think Shkendija can pose a challenge or cause problems?
– Yes, Qarabag is the favorite for this match. But as I said earlier, once you're on the pitch, there are no favorites. You just have to play to win. Shkendija can do a very good job. They already showed that against FCSB.
– What are Shkendija's strengths and weaknesses?
– Qarabag has been playing in European competitions and group stages for many years. Naturally, their experience gives them an advantage in these matches. But that only matters until the match starts. On the pitch, it's 11 players versus 11 players. The team that wants it more and makes fewer mistakes will go through.
– Will you be at the match in North Macedonia? Are you planning to meet with Qarabag representatives before the game?
– If I’m in North Macedonia, yes, I’ll watch the game at the stadium. Of course, I’ll also meet with my friends from Qarabag and visit them before the match.
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