The first semi-final of Eurovision 2025 will take place today in Basel, Switzerland.
Representing Azerbaijan, the band Mamagama will perform their song "Run with U" in the second half of the show, appearing 10th on stage. The group is made up of Asaf Mishiyev, Hasan Heydar, and Arif Imanov.
It turns out that our Eurovision representatives are also passionate sports fans. Idman.biz sat down with the members of Mamagama to learn more about their sporting interests.
Vocalist and football enthusiastAsaf Mishiyev:
“As a football fan, I’ve supported Inter Milan since I was six years old,” says Asaf. “I waited two months to get this jersey I’m wearing—it’s an original from 1998. I’m deeply connected to Inter with all my heart. When they lose, I get frustrated, but after a day, my love for the team returns. Over the years, I’ve explored many sources about Inter’s history, especially their stance during World War II. The club has always stood for democratic values.
Whether they win titles like Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Manchester City doesn’t matter to me anymore. Despite not being the most trophy-laden team, I’ve always loved and supported them. Inter has consistently been a tough challenge for even the biggest clubs.”
Asaf is also a fan of Azerbaijan's Neftchi Baku: “Being from Baku, Neftchi holds a special place in my heart. I also follow esports regularly, even though I never became a professional myself. I would love to see more large-scale and professional esports teams in Azerbaijan. Maybe they exist, but we just don't know about them yet.
While music worked out for me, esports didn’t—but it's something you need to start young. If my future child ever wants to pursue esports, I’ll fully support them. Parents often get worried when kids are into video games, but those kids could grow into great esports players. This is a promising field, with big prize pools. I really hope esports continues to grow in Azerbaijan—with championships and sponsors coming on board. That would create more interest and foster competition, which is essential for development.”
Guitarist and MMA fan Hasan Heydar:
Hasan shared that his interest shifted from football to combat sports: “I was a Barcelona fan as a kid, but by the end of school, I had switched to supporting Tottenham. After the 2010–2011 season, I gradually stopped following football—it just didn’t excite me anymore. Instead, I got into UFC and MMA.
I regularly watch Azerbaijani MMA fighters like Rafael Fiziev and Tofig Musayev. I really enjoy Tofig’s style—he’s fast, sharp, and explosive in the ring.”
Drummer and fitness enthusiast Arif Imanov:
“For me, doing sports is more enjoyable than just watching,” says Arif. “I’ve practiced basketball and swimming for many years. Playing drums is physically demanding as well—it’s almost like a sport. I still go to the gym whenever I find time. Simply put, I love staying active.”
Aytaj Sahed
Idman.biz
