You may have noticed from InstaVolley’s recent update on the progress of 2018 FIVB World Championship Women’s European Qualification round that Team Azerbaijan has one last match tonight with Netherlands, which also will determine which team will go to Japan next year. Figurehead and hero of the team, Natalia Mammadova has recently received an interview from azerisport.com. Below is a brief recap on what she talked about the atmosphere in the team and her expectations.
Beside feeling happy with the unbeatable winning streak so far, she remains confident in their team for the next encounter with strong team the Netherlands.
“I think that we have a very good team with large talent pool. First of all, we have a long bench, which means that we can vary the composition. In addition, there are several individually strong players on each position. Plus, a number of volleyball players perform abroad and have great international experience. And if you take into account the younger generation, the fusion of youth and experience is a very good combination,” Mammadova said.
Regarding the chance to be the topper of the pool, Natalya believed that the chance is good. But she admitted that Holland is very strong that the whole team cannot relax in any minute during the match. Even for herself, who is already a big name and known for her powerful spikes, Natalya humbly said she still has to prove her skills in every match and focus on what’s happening on the court.
On whether Natalya is getting on well with the team, she said, “Of course, after all, I played together with many volleyball players of this team – Valeria Mammadova, Ksenia Pozdnyak. The staff are very positive and the atmosphere in the team is wonderful – all support each other. And this positive mood is conveyed to the match.”
The deciding match in Pool E, Azerbaijan vs The Netherlands will take place on 3 June 17:30 (local time).
Stay tuned at InstaVolley to catch up with the latest development of the tournament.
(Photo: Volleywood)
