Sport24.az
"Zira" defeated "Turan Tovuz" 2:0 away in the first match of the semi-final stage of the Bizon Azerbaijan Cup. Sport24.az reports that the head coach of the "eagles", Rashad Sadygov, answered journalists' questions at the press conference held after the match:
- There is always a tactical battle in the first games of the cup. We witnessed this in the first half. The opponent had many set pieces. We all know that "Turan Tovuz" is one of the most dangerous teams in set pieces. We increased the speed a little in the second half. We won a victory that was very important for us. We have already played the first part. An important second half awaits us.
- Can we say that the fate of the pair has been decided?
- Absolutely not. The opponent has many weapons to stand out. I would have the same opinion no matter what the score was. We need to focus on the championship game quickly.
- Could "Zira"'s results have been different if there had been no injuries during the season?
- We are one of the teams that have the most problems in terms of injuries and penalties. Sometimes it happens that it is not possible to get results with a full squad. Everyone being in shape gives us an advantage.
- What is the reason for Anje Mutsinzi not being in the starting lineup?
- He came from a long trip. Tomorrow we will give him a light training and then a day of rest.
- Can you do bigger things with a bigger budget? Staying in "Zira" seems difficult to achieve great success...
- I am happy in "Zira". Our management has always created conditions for me. I thank them. They trusted me even though I had no experience in the top league. All coaches want a bigger budget and better conditions. But budget is not everything. It may happen that with a big budget I cannot even get into the top 5. Football has all kinds of aspects. Today I am grateful that I am the head coach of "Zira". We will do our best to achieve successful results.
- Are you considering playing Leroy Mikels in the starting lineup in the next games?
- Mikels was injured recently. After the winter break, he was getting in better shape day by day. He started in the starting lineup for the match against "Kapaz". I want to play Mikels. The probability of starting in the starting lineup in the upcoming games is high. There is simply competition in the attack line.
- Who would you like the opponent to be in the final?
- I don't want to answer this question. Right now, I'm thinking about how to stop "Turan Tovuz" in the second leg. I wouldn't have relaxed even if the score was 3:0 today. "Turan Tovuz" has a different attacking potential. Considering the opponent, I don't think we have reached the final.
