Igor Angelovski, head coach of the Tajikistan national team, attended a press conference ahead of the friendly match against Azerbaijan.

The North Macedonian specialist first spoke about the preparation process for the match and the conditions provided:

"I am glad to be here. The host country has created every condition for us. We are ready for the game, and I am pleased to work with these footballers. This match is a good test for us in terms of preparing for the Asian Cup."

The experienced head coach also shared his thoughts on the current state of the Azerbaijan national team:

"I respect all opponents. Six years ago, when I was coaching the North Macedonia national team, I faced your team twice. You do not deserve to be in Group D. However, I am fully focused on this game. Even though it is a friendly match, the result is always important. We will take the field to make Tajikistan proud."

The specialist mentioned that the likelihood of goalkeeper Oleg Baklov playing will be clarified after training. He also evaluated the performances of Azerbaijani clubs:

"I congratulate Valdas Dambrauskas and Sabah; they are showing a very good game. I also highly appreciate Qarabag's performance from last season. I have faced Gurban Gurbanov in the past. Unfortunately, the national team cannot replicate these successes at the club level."

When asked if he had received an offer for the head coach position of the Azerbaijan national team, Angelovski briefly replied, "It would not be appropriate to discuss this."