Neftchi played an interesting and intense match in the 7th round of the Super League in Tashkent. In this game, the Fergana team, as the away side, narrowly defeated Bunyodkor. The only goal scored in the match decided the outcome of the game and brought the team an important three points.
After the match, the head coach of the visiting team, Ilyom Ismoilov, took part in a press conference and openly spoke about both his team’s performance and future plans.
First of all, he expressed special gratitude to the fans. According to him, the team constantly feels their support even in away matches. The coach congratulated everyone on the victory and noted that the game was generally of good quality. He added that both teams tried to play attacking football, and if the chances had been used more efficiently, the score could have been more decisive.
Answering a question about the team’s psychological recovery after the defeat against Pakhtakor, Ismoilov said that an open conversation was held with the players. He emphasized that it was important to quickly forget the defeat and focus on preparing for the next match. According to him, the team came into the match against Bunyodkor fully prepared.
The upcoming match against Nasaf and discussions related to refereeing in their recent games were also addressed. The coach stated that those situations concern another team, and their main task is to give their maximum effort on the pitch. He added that different situations happen in football, and this is a natural part of the game.
Speaking about the team’s playing style, Ismoilov noted that Neftchi tries to maintain good ball possession, but an attacking style can leave open spaces at the back. Because of this, opponents can have opportunities for quick counterattacks. He explained that the number of fouls is also related to this aggressive attacking approach.
According to the coach, the main goal of the team is to win the ball back as cleanly as possible without fouls, but in some situations they are forced to commit fouls. He also noted that the high number of fouls is due to Neftchi playing in advanced positions on the pitch.
At the same time, he separately praised the Bunyodkor goalkeeper, calling him a worthy candidate for the best player of the match. According to him, several dangerous chances were saved thanks to the goalkeeper’s performance.
Answering a question about rotation due to national team training camps and cup matches, Ismoilov stated that rotation is used in every match. Young players are also given opportunities. He emphasized that the club is systematically working on developing young talents and gradually introducing them into top-level football.
In conclusion, it can be said that Neftchi achieved victory, but there are still aspects that need improvement. However, the direction is correct — attacking football, trust in young players, and gradual development. Football, as always, remains exciting because of its unpredictability.
