After losing to Bulgaria’s Levski in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League, Sabah must regroup and improve in upcoming matches.
Idman.biz reports that Igor Ponomarev, the sporting director of the Baku club, made the statement to Report news agency.
He evaluated the team’s performance in this season’s European competitions: “Looking at the current European campaign, there are both positive and negative aspects. In the first round, we faced Sele, who reached the Conference League quarterfinals last season. Although we lost 2:3 at home with a last-minute goal, we won the away match by the same score. The game went to extra time, and the opponent advanced only due to a goal in added time. Still, in these two matches, we competed on equal terms with experienced and quality opponents.
“In the second qualifying round, the team impressed in matches against Moldova’s Petrocub. Some may consider Petrocub a weak opponent, but they also played in the Conference League group stage last season. The first match already demonstrated their strength, but our team showed character and returned from the away game with an important victory. At home, we secured a convincing win.”
The official also commented on yesterday’s loss to Levski: “We played the first leg very well. The opponent won only with a last-second goal. In the home game, I must first highlight the incredible atmosphere at the stadium, and we thank the fans for that. Unfortunately, we could not reward them with a win or progression. Regarding the match itself, I would not say we were outplayed. Both teams had opportunities, but they utilized theirs better. The opponent is known for a solid defense, which their European matches confirm, they conceded only two goals in six matches, both in extra time. They also started their domestic league well, winning all four games.
“Of course, despite all this, we could have advanced. We had chances, but unfortunately, it didn’t happen. Those games are behind us now. The team must regroup and develop in upcoming matches.”
Sabah was eliminated from the UEFA Conference League after losing to Levski 0:1 at home and 0:2 away in the third qualifying round.
Idman.biz
