Idman.biz
"Shkendija", who eliminated the Romanian giant FCSB from the tournament with an impressive overall score, entered this match confidently and self-assuredly under the leadership of head coach Yeton Bekiri. Despite their successful performances in the previous stages, they were not the favorites in this game. "Qarabağ's" vast experience in the European arena made them the superior side in this intense battle."
These words were said by Filip Popovski, who was the Secretary General of the North Macedonian Football Federation for nearly nine years, and is currently the head of the organization's Marketing, Communications, Logistics and Technical Support sector, in an interview with İdman.biz.
Speaking about the UEFA Champions League 3rd qualifying round match "Shkendija" - "Qarabağ" (0:1), the Macedonian expert believes that the match was low-scoring, as expected: "Although "Shkendija" lost, they stood out with their tactical discipline and solid defense throughout the match. This demonstrates the team's development under Bekiri's leadership.
"Qarabağ's" attacking power and experience showed itself especially in decisive moments. However, "Shkendija's" tight defensive formation and occasional counter-attacks were commendable. Tactically, the home team demonstrated maturity and endurance, but lacked composure in the front line.
Although this match revealed the difference in terms of European experience, it also showed the progress made by "Shkendija" to compete at this level. As someone who worked at "Qarabağ" as UEFA's stadium director from 2013-2015, I understand the importance of this game and believe that "Shkendija's" fight at this level in Baku will be a clear indicator of their development.
The 0:1 score gives "Shkendija" hope before the return match and shows that under Bekiri's leadership, the team is on a promising rise in European football."
İdman.biz
