Rui Jorge says Azerbaijan U-20 team is at start of its journey

Rui Jorge, head coach of Azerbaijan’s under-20 national team, said the side was at the start of its development journey after a friendly against Japan’s U-20 team.

Speaking at a news conference after the match, Jorge said his team had faced a strong opponent. He said it was normal for players to have physical shortcomings at this stage.

“We are at the start of our journey. It is normal for the players to have physical shortcomings. That is why we made frequent substitutions during the match. The players will address these shortcomings in the future,” Jorge said.

The match between the Azerbaijan and Japan U-20 teams ended in a goalless draw in regular time. Azerbaijan won 5-4 in the penalty shootout.

Context

Azerbaijan’s U-20 team lost 1-0 to Moldova in a friendly played in Gabala on October 3.