"For a long time, "Araz-Nakhchivan" could not pass the first stage. I congratulate them. We know that Araz is a well-established club."
These words were said by the former futsal player of the Azerbaijani national team, Namig Mammadkarimov, in his statement to Sport24.az.
He commented on the 0:9 defeat of "Araz-Nakhchivan" to "Benfica" (Portugal) in the first match of the 1/8 final stage of the UEFA Futsal Champions League:
"Previously, we passed the first stage without problems because there were high-level legionnaires in the squad. "Benfica" is a world-class club. It has a strong and large squad. The reason for "Araz-Nakhchivan"'s big defeat to "Benfica" was that the legionnaires in the squad could not carry the burden. In our time, legionnaires could carry the team in such games, and local futsal players gave impetus. The score might not have been like this, but the level speaks for itself. It is a success that "Araz-Nakhchivan" has reached here. I believe that we will show a good game in the return match."
It should be noted that the return match between the parties will be held on December 5 in Portugal.