Ernad Skuliç: "Zira" must keep Marko Livaja away from goal - INTERVIEW

An interview with Ernad Skulić, one of the footballers who has lived the longest legionnaire life in Azerbaijan, to Apasport.az

- In the Conference League draw, "Hayduk" was drawn against "Zira". What do you think about this?

- The season that ended was very good for Rashad Sadigov's team. The team also performed successfully in the league, finishing the season in 2nd place. Moreover, as far as I know, they collected the most points in their history.

- In your opinion, what advantages does "Hayduk" have over "Zira"?

- The main advantage is Hayduk's striker Marko Livaja. He is the best football player in the Croatian championship. Split representative belongs to such a striker. It is difficult to keep him. In addition, "Hayduk" has a new head coach who likes to play technical football. I mean Gonzalo Garcia. I know him from "Istra". He worked in this team. Now he will coach "Hayduk".

- What do you think about the return match in Split?

- The stadium in Split is always full. This means that "Hayduk" is the 12th player. It will be very difficult for "Zira" in this sense. Let's see. The first meeting is in Baku.

- "Hayduk" has not been very successful in European Cups in recent years. Last season, they could not pass the Slovak club "Ruzemberok". Could the failures in European Cups in recent years be an advantage for "Zira"? Because "Zira" was more successful...

- Of course, this may be an advantage for "Zira". The first meeting is very important for "Zira". That match will also be held in Baku. You know, "Hayduk" has already invited a new head coach. Moreover, I think the team will be stronger this season.

- What about Ivan Rakitic?

- The issue with Rakitic is not yet clear. Time will tell whether he will be in the team or not.

- How should you play against "Hayduk" to defeat them?

- You know, it is difficult to say in advance what kind of football they will play. It is possible to guess more or less. Because I can say this because I know Garcia. They will prefer more technical football. But to talk in detail, it is necessary to follow the training camp. If "Zira" wants to be successful, I can only say that they should keep Marko Livaja away from the ball and scoring. I am sure that Rashad Sadigov will analyze "Hayduk" very well. I am sure that both meetings will be very interesting. We'll see together how it goes.

Idman.biz