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Interview with Hayduk captain Dario Melnjak on Sportal.az
- "Hayduk" will face "Zira" in the qualifying round of the Conference League. Do you consider the draw successful for "Hayduk"?
- Actually, all draws are always interesting. There is no easy opponent concept anymore. And there is no easy team in European Cups.
- Do you have any information about "Zira"? Since you played in Azerbaijan, you probably know this team. How about in the team, does anyone have information about "Zira"?
- To be honest, I had to check if I had played against "Zira". After your question, I looked and yes, I played in 2 matches against "Zira" (laughs). Both meetings were not successful for me. But those are matches that are in the past. Now you just have to look ahead. I do the same.
- Surely, no surprise will be accepted in Croatia? How do you assess "Hayduk"'s chances in the match against "Zira"? "Zira" did not perform badly in the Conference League last season...
- I watched "Zira"'s games in European Cups. I mainly watched the match against "Osijek". I also saw the play-off match against "Omonia". You know, football is equalizing now. That's why it's become even more interesting. To be honest, we are now focusing more on our tasks and tactics than on who we are playing with. That's what's important now.
- "Hayduk" lost to "Ruzemberok" in European Cups last season. Before that, you had unsuccessful results in matches with "Tobol" and "Gzira United". Why do you think things are not going well for a big club like "Hayduk" in European Cups?
- I think the same about recent years. Honestly, I still don't have a correct answer. But there is always a new motivation. We believe we can do it. We are preparing now and trying to be ready for the upcoming meetings.
- We first knew you for your performance in "Neftchi". It is interesting, how do you remember the moments when you were a football player of this team?
- My first times in "Neftchi" were difficult for me. I came to this team on loan. The club also had a difficult period. At that time, the best thing for both sides was to part ways.
- After leaving "Neftchi", your career was more successful. "Rizespor", the Croatian national team and now "Hayduk". Were you not given a chance in "Neftchi"? Surely you don't regret leaving there?
- Let me say that I gained very good experience in "Neftchi" and Azerbaijan. I have very good impressions there.
- After leaving "Neftchi", you came to Baku once as part of the Croatian national team. This time you will come to Azerbaijan for the second time. The meeting against "Zira" will also be held at the "Neftchi" stadium. Are you excited to come to "Neftchi Arena"?
- To be honest, I didn't even know that our match would be held at "Neftchi Arena". You said it, I found out. Of course, it's nice to hear that. "Neftchi Arena" is a good stadium.
- What is "Hayduk"'s main goal in the Conference League? To advance to the main stage (group stage)?
- "Hayduk" has always had big goals. But a new era has begun in "Hayduk". Our goals are big this time too. That's why we want to go forward step by step. The first step will start with the game against "Zira".
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