Before the UEFA Europa League III qualifying round match against “Chikhura”, Boyukagha Hajiyev, head coach of “Neftchi” Baku, stated at the press conference that his team will make a show.
Boyukagha Hajiyev: “It is my pleasure to be with you. I feel like in Baku here. Our countries have a close relationship. When I was young, I have played in Georgia, including Batumi and Tbilisi. I know this stadium. A lot of Georgian specialists are working in Azerbaijan. Kakha Tskhadadze has been coaching “Inter” Baku for 5 years. Giorgi Chikhradze has been coaching “Simurq” Zaqatala for 3 years. It means that we are like relatives. I want to state that tomorrow will be a show. “Chikhura” plays very close football. It is a very good team. They proved it against “Bursaspor” which is one of the best clubs in Turkey. However, unlike “Chikhura”, we have a slogan: the best defense is a good offense. All tactics are unique. The football players who will carry out this tactic are important for us. If “Chikhura” had Sergio Ramos and Puyol, I would think this team would not make a mistake in defense. “Neftchi” is at European level. We have made a good analysis of “Chikhura” and I think our opponent will play with the same system. “Chikhura” is a strong team. I have to admit it. However, hopefully, tomorrow we will find a way to their net and win the match”.
- How do you estimate the chances? Which veteran football players do you like?
- In the Soviet period the Georgians had many good players: Murtaz Khurtsilava, Aleksandre Chivadze, Piruz Kanteladze, Manuchar Machaidze, Ramaz Shengelia, Davit Kipiani, Vitali Daraselia, Vladimer Gutsaevi. Now I cannot see such players among the Georgians. Do you see them? The games of Kipiani were a real art.
- You stated “Chikhura” plays defensive football and analyzed its matches against “Bursa” and “Neftchi”. You also stated tomorrow’s match will be a show. How can we understand this?
- I cannot say anything on behalf of “Chikhura” head coach. I have stated it from the position of “Chikhura”. Defensive football does not work always.
- You beat “Koper” in away match. Do you see parallels in tomorrow’s match against “Chikhura”?
- We think “Koper” and “Chikhura” play with the same style. They are orientated on defense. “Chikhura” has one forward. Football is a team game. We have our own tactic and I cannot talk about it before the match.
- We express our condolences for your loss in Karabakh. Has UEFA allowed you to play with black armbands?
- Thank you for your support. We are worried about this issue. Our veteran football player Alakbar Mammadov has passed away and that is why we will play with black armbands. The match will also start with a minute of silence.
- Are you going to change tactic?
- “Neftchi” is a very good team. The third qualifying round proves it. As for the changes, you will see it in the match.
- “Chikhura” has not scored goal in the last 3 matches. If tomorrow the Georgians score goal, will it be decisive?
- That is why I stated “Chikhura” plays defensive football. Besides the match against “Turnovo”, have you ever seen their goal?
Lasha Tabagari
