The Azerbaijan national futsal team is set to begin its latest training camp ahead of several international friendly matches. The team will face Georgia in Tbilisi on April 9 and 11, followed by two matches against Kazakhstan in Aktau on April 13 and 15.
According to information provided by the Azerbaijan Futsal Federation to Operative Information Center-OMM, head coach Yevgeni Kukseviç has called up a total of 17 players, including 3 goalkeepers, for the preparation process scheduled to take place in Baku from April 5 to 7. The squad will conduct twice-daily training sessions at the 'Olympic Star' sports complex.
The selection features a mix of experienced players and young talents from domestic clubs. The roster includes:
Goalkeepers:
- Emin Kurdov, Rovshan Huseynli (both from Araz-Nakhchivan)
- Javad Mammadov (Baku Fire)
Players:
- Nihad Ismayilov, Emil Hasanzade, Tofig Aliyev (all from Neftchi IK)
- Tofig Mikayilov, Ogtay Rustamli, Eldar Zeynalov, Novruz Kazikhanov, Murad Guluzade, Kanan Manafov, Farid Abbasov (all from Baku Fire)
- Punhan Gasimzade (U-19)
- Adalat Alakbarov, Ulvi Aliyev (both from Araz-Nakhchivan)
- Gudrat Gasimzade (Shusha)
These friendly matches serve as a crucial preparation phase for the Azerbaijan national team as they aim to improve their standing in international futsal rankings. Azerbaijan has a strong tradition in the sport, with the national team frequently participating in the UEFA Futsal Championship and the FIFA Futsal World Cup. These fixtures against regional rivals Georgia and Kazakhstan provide an essential opportunity for the coaching staff to test tactical formations and integrate newer players into the senior setup before upcoming competitive qualifiers.
