After the “Bunyodkor” – “Bukhoro” (2:4) match from the Uzbekistan Cup quarterfinals, “Bukhoro” head coach Viktor Karpenko took part in the press conference and exchanged views about the team’s play, the source of motivation, and the next stage.
Karpenko evaluated the clash as follows: “We saw a very cheerful game. Six goals were scored. In one word, it was a match typical of the Cup. I think the game pleased the fans. Both ‘Bunyodkor’ and we went onto the pitch aiming only for the next stage. But luck was on our side, and having won, we reached the semifinal.” It was noted that the big score and the dynamics further heated the competition on the road to the trophy.
To the question about the team’s attacking spirit and its ability to press continuously, the coach replied: “Our squad is formed of good footballers. Before the game I emphasized to our players that winning the Cup gives good motivation and that in a football career not everyone can win a trophy. Two steps remain to the final, and if we work, we can easily show ourselves. Our players know how to play football, they just need to convince themselves. With time we will become even stronger. We knew the strong sides of ‘Bunyodkor’. The team is young and likes to play football,” — he answered. According to him, confidence, correct motivation, and loyalty to the plan are the main factors of today’s victory.
The thoughts regarding Azizbek Amonov’s play are also clear: “Amonov played well in the previous game too. Today he showed an even better game. Amonov was not called to the national team in his time for nothing. He knows how to play football. He also needs belief in his own strength. Then he can play even better. If he continues to play like this, he will be called to the national team again.” In the coach’s opinion, a player’s development is directly connected with confidence and stable practice.
About the potential opponent in the semifinal Karpenko said the following: “It doesn’t matter to us, because in the semifinal there are no weak opponents. Whoever we draw, we will try to show ourselves. Maybe others would like to get ‘Bukhoro’ as an opponent. Even if so, it’s fine. We will go onto the pitch and show our football.” Thus, for “Bukhoro” the main goal is — while keeping its style — to implement the plan against any opponent in practice.
In short, Viktor Karpenko’s team stepped into the semifinal with a game matching the Cup spirit, with moderate confidence and character — and now two steps remain to the final.
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