Report.az
It is very difficult to say who is the favorite and to predict who will reach the final.
According to "Report", Azerbaijani chess player Mahammad Muradli said this in a statement to the federation's press service regarding the national championship.
The 21-year-old grandmaster touched upon his victory over Umid Aslanov in the 1/16 finals:
"I have known my opponent since childhood. He fought very well and did his best. But the difference in experience made itself felt. I gained a small advantage at the beginning of both matches. I slowly developed them and won confident victories."
M.Muradli said that he has never faced Rauf Mammadov and Shahriyar Mammadyarov in a classic game:
"It will be interesting for me. Aydin Suleymanli is also in good shape. I think he will show good results. But it is very difficult to say who is the favorite and to predict who will reach the final. One mistake can end the tournament for us. The strongest Azerbaijani championship in history is being held. It is gratifying for all of us that this is the case. Every participant deserves to play here."
