Following the award ceremony for the 2025/26 Azerbaijan Cup, Sabah's Rwandan star Joy-Lance Mickels gave an exclusive interview to Offsideplus.az.

Here is the full interview:

"This Season Was Perfect" — Joy-Lance Mickels

How would you describe this season for Sabah?

It was magnificent — it's hard to put into words. We took it game by game and won almost every single match. Everything was incredible; it felt like we were soaring. Everyone was waiting for us to stumble, saying that "Qarabag" would beat us and become champions. But we won every game and, yes, went 33 matches unbeaten. It was a fantastic season. To win both the league and the cup is an unbelievable feeling. I think we made this season perfect.

Can we say that this is just the beginning?

I hope so. I truly hope so. With this coach, anything is possible. The next step is to qualify for the group stage of an international tournament. I believe we are strong enough to beat many teams, and with a little bit of luck, we will achieve it.

During the award ceremony, you appeared on the pitch with your children and your brother's children. Could you comment on that moment?

Yes, my niece and nephew wanted to join me on the field. Most people probably saw the video on TV — my niece is a huge fan of mine. So, having them by my side felt completely natural. We are a family. We win together, and we lose together. Actually, that makes me a bit sad because my brother was on the opposing side and lost the game. He wanted to win too. So, while I’m trying to enjoy this day, I also feel for him.

Will you invite him to dinner or somewhere else to cheer him up?

Yes, definitely. Maybe he’ll even celebrate with us (laughs). No, I’m joking. But honestly, I feel bad for him because he didn’t get to participate much in the game. He only played a few minutes. I know what he’s capable of; we saw his skills back in Rwanda. Unfortunately, the coach doesn't see him the way he deserves.

You have been in Azerbaijan for a long time now. Would you like to say a few words to the fans in Azerbaijani?

"Sabah bizik!" (Sabah is us!). "Çox sağ ol, Azərbaycan!" (Thank you so much, Azerbaijan!). "Biz bunu bacardıq!" (We did it!) I want to thank everyone for all the support throughout this year. A magnificent city, magnificent people. Thank you very much.