Mammadov says Azerbaijani players get too little club time

Former Azerbaijan national team striker Khagani Mammadov attributed the victory over Lithuania to the team’s motivation and determination. He said Azerbaijan could also have beaten Liechtenstein if the players had shown the same qualities in that match.

Mammadov gave an overall fair assessment of the team’s performances in its three group matches. He said the side could play better, but that results depended on motivation and determination.

Limited playing time at clubs

The former footballer said the team’s main weakness was its failure to convert scoring chances. He said Azerbaijan built attacks but did not turn its opportunities into goals, linking that problem to a lack of match practice: “Players get little playing time at their clubs. That has an impact too.”

Mammadov said clubs should trust local players and give them opportunities to develop through regular playing time. He said more appearances for domestic players would also benefit the national team.

Next match against Liechtenstein

Mammadov said he believes Azerbaijan will win its away match against Liechtenstein. He added that the team could also beat the opponent in Baku. The former striker said Liechtenstein’s national team had improved compared with previous years and now played more structured and thoughtful football.