Ruslan Gurbanov: Azerbaijan Can Take First Place in the Nations League Group

“Now there are no weak national teams, everyone has learned to play football,” Gurbanov told azerisport.com. “I believe that against Lithuania they will show good and spectacular football and make the entire Azerbaijani people happy.”

Evaluating the Milly and Squad Depth

The 1-0 win against Tajikistan provided a platform for evaluation as the squad prepares for competitive action. When asked whether the national team has grown stronger or weaker, Gurbanov noted that such evaluations are best left to the supporters, while emphasizing the importance of competitive readiness across all positions.

The Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA) recently adjusted regulations by removing the foreign player limit, a policy shift that has sparked discussion across domestic football circles. Gurbanov addressed the impact of the rule change, observing an increase in local players continuing their careers abroad.

“In some respects, this is beneficial, but on the other hand, locals will receive little playing time,” Gurbanov said. “I am for Azerbaijanis playing more, this benefits the national team. And yet, if AFFA decided this, apparently they know better. We must respect the association’s decision.”

Preparations for Lithuania and Group D2 Stakes

Azerbaijan traveled to Kaunas days ahead of the fixture to secure vital acclimatization time. The hosts opened their group campaign with a 2-0 away victory against Liechtenstein, setting a competitive tone for Group D2. Gurbanov emphasized that no fixtures can be treated as routine encounters in modern international football.

“As I said, everyone has learned to play now, we need to seriously tune in to this match, because there will be no more passing games,” Gurbanov stated. “I believe that the Milly will achieve a positive result. I will watch and root.”

Addressing the coaching staff, Gurbanov offered backing to Aykhan Abbasov, describing him as a capable manager equipped to secure results for the national team. Regarding the broader objective of claiming first place in Group D2, Gurbanov maintained an optimistic outlook for the squad’s campaign.

“In football, nothing is impossible, the main thing is not to burn out and approach the matches seriously,” Gurbanov said. “Personally, I believe that the Milly is capable of taking first place. As the saying goes, why not? I will root for the national team and worry. I wish success to every footballer. The main thing is without injuries.”

The team continues its preparations in Kaunas ahead of the scheduled fixture, with coaching staff assessing fitness levels following the early arrival and acclimatization period.