Diogo Verdasca: "Playing in our city, in front of our fans, would be an advantage" – INTERVIEW

Interview
17 September 2025 14:49
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Diogo Verdasca: "Playing in our city, in front of our fans, would be an advantage" – INTERVIEW

Interview with Portuguese defender of "Kapaz," Diogo Verdasca, for Futbolinfo.az.

– In the league match against "Araz-Nakhchivan" (0:2), the team looked better compared to previous games but still suffered a defeat. What was missing for a successful result?

– I think in the first half we did not play badly; we were solid in defense, compact, and even had a few chances in attack. But football lasts 90 minutes, so we need to maintain this rhythm throughout the whole match. "Araz-Nakhchivan" is a good team, they finished third in the league last year. So we knew it would be a tough match.

– After 4 rounds, "Kapaz" is the only team in the league without points. What do you think is the reason for this unsuccessful start?

– I just recently returned to the team, so I cannot say what happened before me. But I can say that in the next game we will do our best.

– Has the fact that "Kapaz" is playing away from its home city and fans negatively affected the team’s performance?

– Let’s admit, playing in our own stadium, in our city, in front of our fans, would definitely be an advantage. But this is the reality we have to accept.

– In the next round you will face "Gabala." Could this match be a turning point for "Kapaz"?

– In the Azerbaijani league, every game and every round is important. Considering our current situation, this match is extremely important for both us players and the club in general.

– Last season you also played for "Kapaz" and the team managed to stay in the Premier League. Do you think "Kapaz" can secure its place again this season?

– In my opinion, we should take it game by game. I don’t like talking too much about the future. Anything can happen in football. I can only say that I will give my best for this club.

– How do you evaluate the new foreign players that "Kapaz" signed this summer, who are playing in Azerbaijan for the first time? Can they prove themselves in the league?

– I’ve been training with my new teammates for about two weeks. Compared to last year, there are many new faces in the squad. I can say that this league is competitive. Only with physical strength and teamwork can we achieve our goals.

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