Idman.biz
The head coach of "Neftçi", Samir Abasov, made a detailed statement at the press conference after the goalless draw with "Sabah" in the 4th round of the Azerbaijan Premier League.
Idman.biz reports that Abasov first emphasized the dedication of his team in the game:
"I owe my footballers gratitude. They worked hard, ran, and fought well. We lost points in the game against "Turan Tovuz", but this time we played better. We had losses, but despite this, the players did their best on the field. I was very pleased with the game. I understand our fans. Everyone expected a victory in the first game. But we will continue this process and play better and better."
The head coach also harshly criticized the penalty episodes that were not awarded in the game:
"In some episodes, there was only one team on the field, and that was "Neftçi". The referee was close, saw the episode, and awarded a penalty. But I don't understand why VAR intervened. The ball was going into the goal, the player blocked it with his hand. In addition, there was also a foul against Vargas. In my opinion, at least one of these two episodes should have been a penalty. I am sure that if it had happened in our goal, it would have been a hundred percent penalty."
Touching on the topic of transfers, Abasov admitted the lack of a striker:
"The most frequently asked question is about the striker. Because this is a position where you can't make mistakes. But the reality is that it is very difficult to bring the strikers we want to Azerbaijan. European, Arab, and Chinese clubs are hindering us in this matter. We talked to many players, but it didn't work out. There are currently some players who are free agents. It was difficult to get them to the table at the beginning of the season, but now we have a chance."
The head coach also highly appreciated the young players of the team:
"Murad Khachayev played very well. Elvin Badalov also showed himself well on the field. I am satisfied with the game of the whole team. Who will be in reserve, who will play, time will tell. The main thing is that they all stay in this form."
Abasov was also asked about the national team. He did not hide his position on this issue:
"Of course, I am in favor of a local coach. The last games showed that we need a specialist who understands our football, who knows the reality. Whoever will be from the locals, I wish him success. At the moment, all my thoughts are on "Neftçi" and the U-21 national team."
In the end, the specialist added that the main goal in the upcoming games will be to show football that will delight the fans, along with the result:
"I have no explanation for not being able to capitalize on goal opportunities. But the team is on the right track. We will work harder to improve both our game and our result."
Idman.biz
