"We have high expectations for Eldaniz Azizli, as he has won all his matches with great advantages."
This statement comes from Rafig Huseynov, a member of the Azerbaijani national team and a Greco-Roman wrestler competing in the 77 kg category. He shared his thoughts with Idman.biz regarding the chances of our wrestlers competing for medals today in Tirana, Albania.
Huseynov expressed confidence in Eldaniz Azizli’s ability to secure a comfortable victory. He noted that Iranian wrestler Poya Marz is a formidable opponent: “Eldaniz must utilize tactics in this match, particularly his strategy to take control on the mat. If he focuses on his footwork, he will likely come out on top. Iranian wrestlers often rely on physical strength, but their technical skills are generally lacking.”
Huseynov also commented on Nihad Mammadli's prospects: “Nihad, the European champion at 60 kg, has now successfully transitioned to the 63 kg category, defeating top competitors to reach the finals. I really appreciate his wrestling style; it sets a standard. I believe he should win against Kazakhstan’s Yerzhet Zharlykassyn, although an unexpected result is always possible.”
According to the Olympic medalist, Ulvu Ganizade will face a challenging match: “His opponent, France’s Ibrahim Ghanem, won’t be easy to overcome. Their last encounter was quite tough for Ganizade. Ibrahim is a wrestler who applies a lot of pressure and speed. If Ganizade can maintain his stamina, he stands a chance. Ibrahim has won all his matches by maintaining a high pace. I hope all three of our athletes will emerge as champions, as their victories are a testament to Azerbaijani wrestling.”
Huseynov also mentioned that Gurban Gurbanov’s chances of securing a bronze medal are slim: “This was his first major test at the senior level. His consolation match will be against a strong opponent. Uzbekistan’s Jalgasbay Berdimuratov is an Asian champion and a silver medalist at the world championship. I have faced him twice, winning once and losing the other. Let's hope that after defeating him, Gurbanov can wrestle more comfortably for third place, but it won’t be easy for him.”
The World Championship will conclude on October 31.
Emin Aga
Idman.biz
