The "Navbahor" vs "Qizilqum" match from the 23rd round of the Super League was held in Namangan, with the hosts securing a narrow 1-0 victory. At the post-match press conference, the guest coach Akmal Rustamov shared his thoughts.
According to the experienced coach, the game was very eventful and many goal-scoring opportunities were created. "We prepared thoroughly after the match against 'Nasaf'. In this match, the team that scored first had a higher chance of winning. In the first half, we had two or three clear chances to score, but we missed the final shot. Navbahor's effective use of their opportunity ensured that luck tilted in favor of the hosts," said Rustamov.
When asked whether the team could not maintain their intensity in the second half as before, he replied: "I do not agree with that opinion. Our players were mentally fine. The short interval and long travel between matches had an effect. We were also close to victory; if we had converted the first-half chances into goals, the result could have been completely different. Luck turned away from us," he answered.
Additionally, the coach commented on giving youth players a chance due to injured footballers: "Nikola Kumburovic and Ilhom Vahobov were injured. Therefore, we confidently gave opportunities to several young players from the U-21 team. If they demonstrate themselves in such matches, they may also find a place in the main squad in the future," Rustamov added.
When asked about the performance of the foreign players, he said: "On the field, we had three foreign players — Roman Papariga, Jaba Jigauri, and Dushan Miyich. Signs of fatigue appeared in the second half, but I am satisfied with the overall condition. I thank not only them but all the players," he said.
The coach also commented on whether the coaching change at Navbahor affected plans: "In football, when one coach leaves, it is natural that another replaces them. It did not significantly affect our plans anyway; we had to show our own game," he emphasized.
Touching on the championship question, Rustamov said: "There are still eight rounds ahead. It is difficult to say anything definite. 'Nasaf' is fighting on two fronts, which makes it harder for them, but 'Neftchi' does not have such difficulties. So, time will tell everything," he concluded.
Thus, the "Qizilqum" coach acknowledged that despite many positive aspects in the team's play, they suffered defeat because they were unlucky.
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