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Qarabag FK's head coach: We will try to play bravely against Newcastle

Head coach of Qarabag FK, Qurban Qurbanov

17 February 2026 17:26 (UTC +04:00)

Qarabag FK will face Newcastle United in Baku in the playoff stage of the UEFA Champions League, APA reports citing Apasport.az.

Qarabag’s head coach, Qurban Qurbanov, made several statements during the pre-match press conference.

He stated that this is a very important match: “This is a first in the history of Azerbaijani football. And to play against a club as well-established as Newcastle. I watch the preparation of my players. They behave very responsibly, and they are excited. This gave us confidence that the players are looking forward to the match. They all think about playing their best game tomorrow. We have watched the opponent. They have a style of football that does not suit us. No team in the Premier League wants to play against them. We will try to play a smart, courageous game in front of the fans. In some components, the opponent surpasses us. They play both physical and fast football. Our players will show themselves from the best side.”

Qurban Qurbanov also emphasized that they have little time to prepare.

The Qarabag–Newcastle match will take place on February 18 at 21:45 at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium.