In the fourth round of the Misli Premier League, Neftchi defeated Shefa 4-1.

After the match, Yuri Vernidub answered journalists' questions at the press conference.

"Our players dedicated themselves to the game. Shefa being new to the elite doesn’t mean much. They are a disciplined team, playing in a 5-3-2 formation. It’s not easy to break them down. That happened in the first half. We opened the scoring with a beautiful goal from Rufat. We have a lot to work on. Although we conceded a goal at the start of the second half, my players responded well and scored three more goals. I’ve forgotten how many times the ball hit the post. I’m happy we won," he said.

Regarding changes in the starting lineup, Vernidub stated:

"If we exclude the goalkeepers, we have 22 players. Elvin Badalov missed the game due to suspension, and Shtokrin is also injured. The others had trained. We didn’t see what we wanted in the game against Zirə. There were few goal-scoring opportunities in that match. This time we decided to apply pressure. The players handled it well. I like the competition among my footballers—everyone wants to play. But the decisions are made by me and my staff. We have been watching Shkribel for a long time. He comes from a very interesting league—Scotland. He was also selected as the best midfielder there. We wanted him and succeeded in the transfer. I trust all my players. We have the chance to innovate in the centre and on the flanks.

Vernidub also discussed Rufat Abbasov's initial lack of confidence before scoring:

"I completely agree with you. He is young and a player for the national team. I have told him my expectations. He is one of the key members of our team. Although he is left-footed, he scored very well with his right foot. He could have scored a second, but the post didn’t allow it. In a match, he runs at least 1300 metres."