Practically whole world watching Qarabağ now, says head coach Gurbanov Interview with Euronews

17 October 2025 15:28

Qarabağ FK head coach Gurban Gurbanov has spoken about the growing international recognition of Azerbaijani football, following his team’s impressive performances in the UEFA Champions League.

"Practically the whole world is watching us now," he said In an interview with Euronews, highlighting that the club’s recent success is not only a triumph for Qarabağ but a milestone for the entire nation’s sporting reputation, Caliber.Az reports.

"We have many champion athletes in wrestling and judo. We have enough Olympic and world champions. Azerbaijan is a sports country," Gurbanov stated. "Football has reached such a level that it is not easy to keep up with it. There is no weak team in the Champions League. I cannot help but be happy to beat such teams and be in the top ranks. Because, almost the whole world started to take an interest in us."

Gurbanov emphasised that Qarabağ FK's performance on the European stage reflects a broader evolution in Azerbaijani football, which has traditionally been overshadowed by the nation’s strength in individual sports like wrestling and judo.

"What we are achieving today is not just for the club but for Azerbaijani football as a whole," the head coach noted.

Qarabağ’s remarkable 3-2 comeback victory over Benfica in Lisbon is emblematic of the team’s rising stature and resilience, according to the coach. He credits the club’s stability, belief, and consistent hard work as key factors behind their sustained progress.

"The level of football today requires not only talent, but also perseverance and long-term planning," Gurbanov added.

To recall, Qarabağ is in the group of leaders with six points after two rounds in the Champions League. The Azerbaijani champion will play its next game on October 22 against Athletic on the road.

With Champions League momentum behind them, Qarabağ FK now stands as a symbol of Azerbaijan’s broader sporting ambitions—proving that the country’s success extends beyond traditional disciplines and into the heart of Europe’s elite football arena.