In an interview with journalists, head coach Alexander Khomyakov shared his thoughts after "Bukhara" lost to "Pakhtakor" (0:1) in the final of the Uzbekistan Cup. According to him, the team fought until the end, but one situation decided the fate of the game.
- I congratulate Pakhtakor on their victory and wish them good luck in the Asian Champions League. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our fans in today's match. They instilled confidence in us throughout the entire game. In the finale, every mistake has a high price, so it was not spectacular, but sharp and emotional. "The guys gave their all, but unfortunately, the victory went to the opponent," said the coach.
About offside: "I haven't seen offside, but the decision isn't mine"
When journalists asked about the team's disallowed goal, Khomyakov responded:
"They said there was a 'passive offside' in that situation. But I don't think so. It's another matter - I'm not a judge or expert, making decisions is not my responsibility. This is football, such situations happen. But, of course, such defeats are painful. We should have been more aggressive in attack."
About the referees: "There could have been a red card for a foul"
"Sometimes all situations are before our eyes. I think a red card could have been shown for a foul on Po'latov in the first half. But the referees are experienced, they make decisions in the spirit of the game."
"You can't always win in football."
Speaking about the atmosphere in the locker room after the defeat, the coach emphasized that he did not speak harshly to his team:
"The guys are professionals. There's no need to talk to them - they feel the situation themselves. You can't always win in football. Such defeats will be a great lesson for our youth. It's the same in life and sports - unfair situations make you stronger. Therefore, today's defeat must be accepted psychologically."
About Kolakovich: "These tears are not for money - they are for pride"
"Football is a war for victory. In modern times, you're not asked where you played, but what you won. Kolakovich played in Uzbekistan for many years and wanted to leave a mark on the country's history. That's why he cried. These tears were not for money or salary, but for pride and work. We played for our fans, for our families. There was no fear, only desire."
Moral lesson of the final
In his final words, the coach once again reminded us of the essence of football:
"Football is a game of emotions and willpower. The result will not be known in advance. I simply asked the guys: go out onto the field today with the same enthusiasm with which you played on the street as a child. They did it, and I am proud of them."
Thus, although "Bukhara" was defeated, the team won the hearts of fans with its willpower and fighting spirit in the game.
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