Interview with Qarabag player Elvin Jafarguliyev after 0:1 home loss to Sumgayit in Azerbaijani Premier League Round 2 for Sportnet.az.
You started the game in the main lineup. How did this affect your performance?
Yes, some of our players were not on the field. We knew it would be very tough because we had watched and analyzed Sumgayit’s first-round match against Kapaz. They really play good football. They also have new players, so we expected the game to be difficult.
You conceded the goal unexpectedly…
Yes, we conceded a goal unexpectedly, and we felt the pain of that goal. We tried to keep pressure on the opponent until the end of the match. We wanted to score, but it didn’t happen. Now we have to focus on the upcoming games.
Could this result have been predicted?
We don’t usually struggle regardless of using the first or second lineup. Both lineups have strong players. It just didn’t work out today. We didn’t expect this result.
How will you prepare for the match against Ferencvaros?
We will probably analyze the first game and prepare accordingly. Nothing is over yet. Some people think that since we won there, everything is done – but that’s not true. From the opponent players’ and head coach’s statements, it’s clear they are coming here to win. We will do our best to maintain our advantage and advance to the next stage.
The opposing team’s coach, Robbie King, and the players want you not to treat that victory as if the stage is already secured. Does this give you extra motivation?
Of course. After the match, we gathered as a team, and our coach told us that no one should be overconfident and that we must prepare seriously for the game in Baku. Nothing is over yet.
They said you celebrated your goals very passionately…
– That’s normal. After falling behind, we started scoring goals. Even though we conceded in the previous game, I think we were dominating and creating chances before the goal. We conceded, but we came back and advanced. That’s very normal. If we score, we should celebrate.
What would you like to say to the fans?
– Hopefully, we expect everyone at the game in Baku, and we invite everyone. We want incredible support. Together, we will advance to the next stage.
Idman.biz
