“If Qarabag can collect 3–4 points in 8 matches, we can consider this result satisfactory.”
These remarks were made by Arif Asadov, who works as an instructor in UEFA coaching courses held in Baku, in an interview with AZERTAC while discussing Qarabag’s opponents in the UEFA Champions League group stage, Idman.biz reports.
He noted that facing prestigious clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool, and Napoli will help the Agdam team grow: “This in itself is a major achievement. Qarabag has reached its goal by qualifying for the group stage, a historic result. There are no weak opponents in the Champions League. All teams are the strongest in their countries, and the difference in level is evident. Therefore, Qarabag will approach the matches without pressure, as the psychological tension is behind them, allowing the team to play more freely.”
According to the expert, Qarabag has a better chance of earning points in home matches: “In encounters with Chelsea, Ajax, Eintracht, and Copenhagen, Qarabag’s probability of achieving results is higher. The team has faced these opponents before and even outperformed the Danish representative. In other words, it is possible to gain points from each of these teams.”
Asadov stated that away games will be more challenging: “Earning points at Liverpool’s stadium seems unrealistic, almost impossible. Benfica is also very strong at home, as demonstrated in their match against Fenerbahce. However, there is some hope for the game against Athletic. Qarabag once earned a point in Madrid against Atletico, which provides additional confidence. Napoli is a strong opponent, and it will be tough there.”
He emphasized that Qarabag qualifying for the Champions League group stage is an achievement in itself: “This result has greatly pleased the people of Azerbaijan, the football community, and the entire Qarabag family. Head coach Gurban Gurbanov and his technical staff also deserve special congratulations. We thank them for giving us this celebration.”
The first round of the UEFA Champions League group stage will take place on September 16–18. The play-off stage will start on February 17–18, and the final match will be held on May 30 in Budapest, Hungary.
Idman.biz
