"It will be a very difficult game for us, we know that. Because we will play against a strong team that is more invested in and plays in the UEFA Champions League."
This was said by "Shamakhi"'s Portuguese midfielder Dioqo Balau in an interview with futbolinfo.az.
We present that interview:
– In the 8th round, you lost 1:4 to "Kapaz" in your own field. Was the big defeat unexpected for you? What do you see as the reason for the defeat to "Kapaz", which is in the last place?
– It was a heavy defeat. Of course, we did not expect such a result. We had a good impression in the last matches before the game with "Kapaz". I think we didn't approach this meeting properly and it cost us 3 points.
– If your teammate Abdullahi Shuaybu had not received a red card, could a different score have been recorded?
– Yes, I have no doubt about it. I am sure that if Shuaybu had not received a red card, we could have scored more goals and won the game.
– A difficult test awaits you in the next round. What result do you hope for in the away match against "Qarabag"?
– It will be a very difficult game for us, we know that. Because we will play against a strong team that is more invested in and plays in the UEFA Champions League. Nevertheless, we are motivated and attentive, we have the right mindset. 11 people play against 11 people on the field – we'll see what happens.
– "Shamakhi" is currently in 7th place in the tournament table. Does the team's strength, the current squad allow it to be in a higher place?
– Yes, it does, we are ready! Of course, we can play better and we will be even stronger when two important players return from injury.
– In a short time, you managed to become one of the players that "Shamakhi" fans have the most hope for. Are you completely satisfied with your performance?
– I am happy about that, but there is still a lot of work to be done. I want to score more goals, provide more assists, and help the team win. The more often all this happens, maybe then I can be satisfied with myself.
– The adaptation of legionnaires from Brazil and Portugal to the Azerbaijan championship takes less time, and most of them manage to show themselves in a good light here. How would you explain this?
– I think it's related to the individual quality of the players and also to our hunger for success. Portuguese and Brazilian football players tend to adapt quickly to situations in life – it's the same in football. The combination of quality and hard work always pays off. Of course, some players need more time. But if you give them that time, fans will sooner or later enjoy their games.