"I don’t think the result of the first leg will determine the fate of the tie. The chances will remain equal going into the return match. In such games, a single defeat doesn’t end everything, there’s always a chance to turn things around. It’s very rare for everything to be decided after the first game."
These thoughts were expressed to Futbolinfo.az by former captain of the Azerbaijani national team, Tarlan Ahmadov, Idman.biz reports.
While assessing the chances of Azerbaijani clubs in the Conference League, the experienced coach added: "We expect both of our representatives to win. Of course, it won’t be easy. Omonia is a familiar opponent for Elmar Bakhshiyev. During his time at Gabala, they also played against this team. Omonia has a stable and settled squad. Nevertheless, Araz-Nakhchivan have been performing more impressively this season compared to previous years. Quality foreign players have been brought in, and the team is improving with each match. They’re more aggressive in attack, but some defensive gaps are noticeable. If they play more carefully at the back, they can gain the upper hand. Playing the first match at home is also an advantage. It’s important to score as many goals as possible to make the return leg easier. We saw Omonia’s aggressive style in their matches against Zira last season, their goals are proof of their strong attacking potential."
Ahmadov also spoke about Sabah’s opponent, Levski: "Levski has rich experience in European competitions and is a well-established club. But in football, no opponent is unbeatable. We expect good performances from our teams. If we’ve made it to this stage, it means the chances are equal. The team that makes fewer mistakes and defends better will advance. Mistakes in these kinds of matches are costly and don’t go unpunished. Our main hope is for our representatives to qualify for the play-offs."
Tarlan Ahmadov believes every team has a weak spot: "Every team has weaknesses. I’m sure the coaches have thoroughly analyzed them and prepared accordingly. Our teams’ playing styles are commendable in both defense and attack. In such moments, it’s important to respond to the opponent with their own style of play."
In conclusion, Ahmadov expressed confidence in the Azerbaijani teams: "Our clubs have the quality in both squad and playing style to advance to the next stage. The new signings have added dynamism. That’s why they won’t look helpless on the pitch. If we’re more aggressive in attack and take advantage of our chances, we can be the ones who go through. Our football has now reached a level where the teams are becoming more ambitious thanks to the foreign players brought in. Let’s hope our representatives do their best and reach the next round. Even if they don’t make it to the play-offs, the fight they’ve shown so far is already a great result. What we want most is to see more of our clubs in the group stage. Football is a game where surprises can happen at any moment. Let’s hope those surprises work in our favor."
Idman.biz
