Idman.biz
Polina Rahimova feels comfortable in the Greek league. The volleyball player of the Azerbaijani national team, "Panionios" club, is in third place in the league, and also advanced to the 1/8 finals by passing two stages in the Challenge Cup.
In an interview with Idman.Biz, the attacker shared her impressions of playing in her new club, talked about upcoming tournament tasks and her life in Greece.
"Currently, we are on an eight-win streak in the Greek league, we managed to rise to third place, we are only behind Panathinaikos and Olympiacos. But the demands are very high and many expect Panionios to win the championship, because the club has made a large financial investment. The management expects high results from us and believes that the club can perform successfully in all tournaments. Not only the national championship, but also the Cup and the Greek Super Cup, as well as the European Cups," said P. Rahimova.
According to her, the game schedule is quite tight.
"We play twice a week. A few days ago we defeated Zirinios in the championship, and the day before we beat Ilisiakos. As for the Challenge Cup, we will face the Spanish team Eskimo in the 1/8 finals. The first game will be held away on January 9, and the return match will be on January 16," said Polina.
In addition, by the end of the year, Panionios will play a match for the first cup of the season. On December 23, they will face Olympiacos for the Super Cup. "Determining the owner of the Super Cup is only determined by the result of one game, so this is a big game for us and we are preparing seriously. At the same time, we are also preparing for the games before the cup match. Interestingly, we went on a trip in the previous round of the championship and we will play a game with Olympiacos in that hall. The hall is small, the ceiling is low, and we have already tested it," Rahimova emphasized.
The volleyball player also shared her impressions of living in Greece.
"Although it is winter, the climate here is very warm and comfortable. I live near the sea, I often go for walks along the coast. There is also the Old Town nearby, and Athens is not far away. The mentality of the locals is sometimes similar to that of Turkey. If we compare last season with Brazil, the difference is very big. Volleyball is not so popular in Greece. But all teams have fan groups called "ultras". But the fan culture is different from Brazil. I am happy to accept this challenge in a new country. I also plan to visit several islands. We played in Santorini – it's a very beautiful place. It's like I'm in a fairy tale," added Polina.
