Sport24.az
"Perhaps the score in the first game had an impact on our game in the return match." Sport24.az reports that these words were said by "Qarabag" football player Bahlul Mustafazadeh in an interview with journalists.
The defender shared his thoughts on the return match of the second qualifying round of the Champions League, in which they defeated Ireland's "Shelbourne" club in Baku (1:0):
"We thought that the opponent would try to come back. They were working on it. They prepared well against us. Especially in the second match. Nevertheless, we got the result we wanted."
Mustafazadeh touched upon the possibility that the arena's turf could create difficulties for the team in the next stage:
"You are right. The condition of the turf is a bit worse compared to previous times. But there is nothing we can do. We will play as it is."
The player also explained the reasons why the team performed a little sluggishly on the field: "It may be due to the heat. Also, it was our second match. We will get into better shape over time."
He reminded that they have secured at least the main stage in the Conference League:
"Of course, that's not the goal. We want the main stage in the Champions League. We will fight for it."
It should be noted that "Qarabag" will face the North Macedonian representative "Shkendija" in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.
