Former head coach of North Macedonia’s “Shkendija,” Bruno Akrapovic, who was eliminated from the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round by Azerbaijan’s “Qarabag,” gave an interview to AZERTAC.
– Your former team “Shkendija” lost to “Qarabag” (1-6 on aggregate) in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round and was eliminated. What can you say about this?
– Honestly, I didn’t get the chance to watch both matches in full. I later saw the highlights. From the beginning, it was clear to everyone that “Qarabag” were the favorites of the tie, a strong team. They have quality players in their squad. The matches against the Azerbaijani champions were a lesson for “Shkendija.” I hope they will play better in their next games and avoid mistakes.
– Which players from “Qarabag” stood out for you in these matches?
– As I said, “Qarabag” have quality local and foreign players. I would single out Kevin Medina, Leandro Andrade, and Nariman Akhundzada.
– The Azerbaijani representative will face Hungary’s “Ferencvaros” in the Champions League play-off round. How do you assess their chances?
– I watched “Ferencvaros” in their first match against “Ludogorets.” Although the game ended goalless, the Hungarians fought well. They are a tough opponent for “Qarabag.” However, nothing is impossible. I think your team can advance to the League stage.
– Back in 2016, while working at the North Macedonian club, you faced “Neftchi” in the Europa League second qualifying round. What do you remember from those matches?
– Yes, I remember very well. At that time, “Neftchi” had many young players in their squad, all of them quality footballers. In both matches, the chances were equal. In the end, luck was on our side, and we won.
– Have you ever received an offer from Azerbaijani clubs?
– Two or three years ago, I was offered to Azerbaijani clubs through an agent.
– Which Azerbaijani players do you know?
– First of all, I would mention “Qarabag” head coach and veteran footballer Gurban Gurbanov. I also know Badavi Huseynov and Bahlul Mustafazada, who currently play for his team. In addition, I have information about “Zira” head coach Rashad Sadygov.
Idman.biz
