Idman.biz
"At the beginning of the season, the main goal was to finish the first round as the leader, and this plan was realized as expected. The level of the league has increased compared to previous years, the quality of the teams' squads has increased, which has made the competition more difficult."
Idman.Biz reports that these words were said by Elgiz Keremli, the head coach of "Shafa", which finished the first round as the leader in the First League, in an interview with sportal.az. He commented on the team's performance in the first part of the season and their upcoming goals.
Keremli stated that it is a positive moment for the team that "Shafa"'s point difference with its rivals is more than expected.
The head coach noted that they see "Sabail" as the main rival in the championship race. At the same time, he said that they had previously predicted that teams such as "Baku Sporting", "Mingachevir", and "Ordu" would also compete for the top spots during the season. Keremli emphasized that both the infrastructure and the staff of the rivals made this struggle inevitable.
He stated that certain changes have been made to the squad during the winter break, new players have been brought in, and the main goal is to have more extensive rotation opportunities in the second half of the season. The expert, who said that the games will continue on a tight schedule after the winter break, emphasized the importance of having alternative players in every position.
Elgiz Keremli stated that "Shafa's" main goal is to finish the First League as an undefeated champion and qualify for the Premier League. The head coach noted that the competition in the Premier League will be more difficult, but he feels the leadership's confidence in him and that long-term plans are being made with the club.
The expert added that "Shafa" does not intend to be content with just rising to the Premier League. The club aims to develop gradually and compete for European cups in the future.
