OMM Newsroom
Sabah goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov said his team deserved at least a draw in their match against Borussia Dortmund in the third round of the UEFA Champions League league phase. He shared his thoughts with Kazakhstan’s ASnews.kz after the 1-2 defeat.
“I have no emotions or strength left right now. We really wanted to avoid defeat, and I think we had the chance to do that. But Borussia are at a different level now — they are not Slavia. I think we put in a good performance as debutants, especially in the opening minutes. We will keep going in the same spirit,” Pokatilov said.
The goalkeeper also commented on his inclusion in the Champions League’s symbolic team for the second round after the match against Slavia Prague. He said that when a team is considered an underdog, defenders and goalkeepers have more opportunities to stand out. However, Pokatilov said he valued the team’s results more than individual achievements.
The 33-year-old said playing in the league phase was especially meaningful to him. “This is absolutely a dream come true. It can serve as an example for Kazakh children who started playing football in ordinary neighbourhoods. It shows that dreams can come true and anything is possible,” the goalkeeper added.
Sabah lost 1-2 to Borussia Dortmund in a match played at Baku Olympic Stadium on October 20. The Azerbaijani side have three points after three rounds.
