Sport24.az
"Sumgayit" defeated "Qarabağ" 1:0 in the away match within the 2nd round of the Misli Premier League. Sport24.az reports that the head coach of "chemists" Saša Ilić answered journalists' questions at the press conference held after the match:
- We played against the strongest team in Azerbaijan. If you want to achieve a successful result in a match against such an opponent, you need both luck and good play. I know that "Qarabağ" did not play against us with the main squad. They have an important game in the Champions League. I hope they will reach the League stage, and I will be proud of it.
- You stated at the pre-season press conference that our goal is to qualify for the European Cups, but this will depend on the players. Have you gathered players who can take you to the European Cups?
- Yes, I like my players, I am satisfied. But if we want to achieve our goal, we need a few more players. I specifically see 3 players. But I am also satisfied with the existing ones. The result shown today is also satisfactory.
- You brought Nikola Ninković onto the field when "Qarabağ"'s pressure increased. What was the reason?
- Ninković is a world-class player. He just has a physical problem. But he needs time. Even if he can't handle 90 minutes physically, he has the ability to hold the ball.
- Would the result have been different if "Qarabağ" had played with the main squad?
- There would have been a problem. We had problems when the main players came on the field. I would especially mention Janković. We have played with him before. If he had played from the beginning, he could have created a big problem.
- You said that you need three players. Which positions need a transfer?
- In fact, we have players in our squad who should play. For example, Suleiman. We just don't know his situation. We will watch the process.
- Last season there was a "Sumgayit" that did not score a goal in 11 games. But now you have won two games. Is the main feature of this team the defense line?
- The "Sumgayit" you see now is not at its maximum level. We need to work hard to reach the level I want. I have a lot of expectations from the team.
- Are you satisfied with the level of local players and their approach to work?
- Of course, they are trying. I give them a chance. I will give again. Kenan played, and today I gave a chance to Nihad Ahmadzade. They prove in training that they want to play.
- You have won two games. Do you think the players will be euphoric?
- No. I don't think there will be a problem. We focus on every new game. I don't think there will be a problem.
- What position would satisfy you at the end of the season?
- Actually, I would like to be a champion. But it's too early. It is too early to talk about it after two rounds.
