AFC Champions League Elite
The performance at King Saud University Stadium was a stark contrast to the Matchday One 4-0 defeat to UAE’s Al Ain FC and Postecoglou praised his players for their response.
#ACLElite | Al Nassr Club (KSA) 3-1 PFC Neftchi (UZB)
“We secured an important victory; the players demonstrated great professionalism and delivered an outstanding performance, despite the exceptional circumstances surrounding the match,” said Postecoglou. “We played two good matches, and the performance of every player was exceptional.
“Unfortunately, (Kingsley) Coman sustained an injury, but I am pleased with both the performance and the result. My concern for the team and the players made me anxious during the match but ultimately, I am happy with what the players delivered and the team's overall performance.”
“Unfortunately, (Kingsley) Coman sustained an injury, but I am pleased with both the performance and the result. My concern for the team and the players made me anxious during the match but ultimately, I am happy with what the players delivered and the team's overall performance.”
Angelo’s 33rd minute opener was cancelled out by Alisher Odilov six minutes into the second half but Cristiano Ronalldo (42nd) and Anvarjon G'ofurov’s own goal in the 78th minute secured Al Nassr a deserved three points.
Neftchi head coach Islambek Ismailov praised his players for their effort despite the defeat.
“I thank our players for their efforts, they gave their all and fought until the very end. A single match does not determine the team's future,” said Ismayilov. “We still have many games ahead of us. We have a league match in three days, and we must focus on what lies ahead.
“We review our mistakes after every match — even when we win — and prepare for each encounter differently by studying the opponents and selecting the appropriate lineup and tactical approach.”
“I thank our players for their efforts, they gave their all and fought until the very end. A single match does not determine the team's future,” said Ismayilov. “We still have many games ahead of us. We have a league match in three days, and we must focus on what lies ahead.
“We review our mistakes after every match — even when we win — and prepare for each encounter differently by studying the opponents and selecting the appropriate lineup and tactical approach.”
Ismailov said facing opposition of Al Nassr’s calibre will prove valuable to Neftchi in their continental campaign.
“Facing big teams like Al Nassr provides us with valuable lessons. Today, we learned several things that we need to work on. Football is full of surprises, and that is what makes it exciting.”
“Facing big teams like Al Nassr provides us with valuable lessons. Today, we learned several things that we need to work on. Football is full of surprises, and that is what makes it exciting.”
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