OMM Newsroom
Gabala midfielder Elvin Camalov said his team came close to earning a point in their 2-1 defeat to Zira. In an interview with sport24.az, he said they played well in the first half and early in the second, creating chances but failing to take them.
Camalov said fatigue and the team’s retreat into defense late in the match allowed the opposition to score. He said Gabala equalized quickly and had a chance to take the lead, but failed to convert a clear opportunity in the second half. The player thanked the fans who supported the team throughout the away match and said he believes the side will improve over time.
Camalov said the team’s progress was clear compared with its matches against Sumgait and Sabah, noting that it was creating scoring opportunities. However, he said the coach needed more time to instill his playing system in the team. He added that the main objective now was to move clear of the bottom places and stay in the league. If they collect plenty of points before the winter break, he believes fans could see a team resembling the former Gabala in the second half of the season.
Camalov said he left Neftchi because he was not getting enough playing time. He had wanted to stay at his former club and win the championship, but decided to move so he could play regularly and earn a call-up to the national team. His goals at Gabala are to become a regular starter and be called up to the national team. He said he respects Emin Mahmudov’s decision to end his national-team career, adding that Mahmudov has done a great deal for Azerbaijani football and Neftchi and could still contribute to the national team.
