At a press conference following the Andijan vs. Al Kholdiya match (0-0) in the third round of the Asian Champions League-2, the hosts' head coach, Maksim Shatskikh, spoke in detail about the team's performance, goalless result, and future plans.
Maxim Shatskikh did not hide his satisfaction with his team's performance and enthusiasm during the match:
"Everyone saw that today my players played a game worthy of a victory. We were reliable in defense and active in attack. We created enough chances to score, but luck wasn't on our side. After the match, I thanked all the players - I was satisfied with their mood on the field, their movements, and their thirst for victory. At the same time, it is very unfortunate that we lost two points. "We still have two important matches ahead of us, and we still have a chance to get out of the group," he said.
When Shatskikh was asked about the team's failure to score in all three matches, he emphasized the reliability in defense:
"Even though we're not scoring, we're playing well in defense. In all three matches, our goal remained untouched. And this is a big plus. We scored four goals against Shurtan in the previous game, so we have potential in attack as well. I hope goals will come in the next rounds."
The coach also commented on the substitutions in the second half:
"Damir Temirov and Doniyor Abdumannopov worked a lot, they put the opponent in a difficult position many times. But there was also fatigue. Therefore, we exchanged them for rest. At the same time, since the opponent also brought new forces to the center of the field, we also changed the lineup to maintain stability in the center."
Journalists asked if the team had given the guests the initiative for the first 30 minutes. Shatskikh explained this situation with a tactical plan:
"Yes, the opponent controlled the ball more in the previous half, but that doesn't mean they dominated. There was practically no danger in front of our gate. They simply circled the ball more, but they didn't show any activity in practice. We aimed to tire the opponent by playing without the ball. When they were exhausted, there was a plan to gain an advantage through swift counterattacks. This is a realistic approach in modern football. Even Manchester City sometimes plays with defensive tactics. Today it was clear that the opponent's plan was only for a draw. They were satisfied with the result, and we fought for victory."
Summarizing his remarks, Shatskikh noted the high morale of his team:
"We haven't lost anything yet. As long as there is hope and confidence, we will not stop working. In football, every match is a new opportunity. The main thing is that the team has enthusiasm and a single goal. If so, the result won't take long."
Through this match, "Andijan" retained its chances in the group. Now the team is only thinking about winning the next two matches - every point is crucial for them.
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