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Interview with Elmir Khankishiyev, former coach of "Sabail", to futbolinfo.az
– How did the completed season of the national championship differ from the previous ones? Which teams were able to surprise you in a positive way?
– Traditionally, "Qarabağ" won the championship. This was known in advance. It was clear that "Zira" would fight for high places. But taking second place was a bit of a surprise. Because it was initially predicted that "Neftchi" and "Sabah" would play for higher places. These two teams surprised me in a negative way. "Sabah" and "Neftchi" performed below their potential and could not take the places they wanted in the championship. "Sabah" has a cup final game left. If they lose to "Qarabağ" in the decisive game, the season will be unsuccessful for them. "Araz-Nakhchivan" was a pleasant surprise. No one expected them to take 3rd place and qualify for European cups before the start of the season.
– How did it affect you that "Sabail", where you worked as an assistant coach at the beginning of the season, was relegated to the First League at the end of the season?
– Of course, I was very upset that "Sabail" left the Premier League. I worked at that club for two years. I was very upset that they were relegated to the First League. I hope that the "Sabail" team will recover and return to the Premier League in 1 year like "Gabala". I wish "Sabail" good luck.
– In your opinion, which players were the discovery of this season?
– I can mention 2-3 young players. Goalkeeper Alirza Mushtabazade from "Sabail" emerged as the discovery of this year. Khayal Aliyev from "Sabah" also showed himself on the good side. I would also mention Edgar Adilkhanov from "Shamakhi". These football players, whom we had never known anywhere before, showed themselves well and became known in the current season. I wish them success in their future careers. Let them increase even more, train more and rise to even higher peaks.
– Today, the final match of the national cup between "Qarabağ" and "Sabah" will be held. Who do you think will win?
– The favorite is "Qarabağ". But final matches are games where you can always expect a surprise. "Sabah" can also make a surprise. Because this is their last chance to qualify for European cups. But as I said, I consider "Qarabağ" the favorite.
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