What Perković Said Ahead of the Conference League Match “Noah” — “AZ”

On February 19, “Noah” will play one of the most important matches in its history. In the UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 32, the Armenian club will host Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. The match will take place in Yerevan at the Republican Stadium and will kick off at 21:45 local time.

On the eve of the game, Noah head coach Sandro Perković held a press conference where he spoke about the team’s readiness after the winter break, assessed the opponent’s strengths, commented on the transfer window, and promised fans a reason to be proud. Despite AZ’s status as favorites, the Armenian club believes in its abilities and is counting on strong home support in the first leg of the two-match tie.

Sandro Perković’s Press Conference Before the Match Against AZ

— Have you managed to identify your opponent’s weaknesses?

— It’s a very strong team, and we respect them greatly. But yes, we have identified certain weaknesses that we will try to exploit tomorrow. We had a good training camp. We haven’t played official matches for two months, but we are fully ready — physically, tactically, and psychologically. Tomorrow we will show that on the pitch.

— Were you able to convince the players that even though AZ Alkmaar is a strong and well-known team, they have issues in their game and that Noah has real chances? Do you think the players truly believe in success?

— I don’t know what issues you are referring to. First of all, we believe in our own strength. We are in good form now and will show it tomorrow.

— This is a two-legged tie. How important is it that we play the first match at home? What result at home would be positive for overall success?

— I don’t think it matters much where the first game is played. There are 180 minutes ahead. The outcome will be decided next week in the Netherlands. Any positive result in the first match will be good for us.

— What will be the key to victory?

— Our team and the way we perform tomorrow. I hope the fans who come and create the right atmosphere will help us. We are well prepared and intend to show quality football.

— The opponent is in competitive rhythm, playing league and cup matches. They are in good form. In what condition is Noah, and is the team ready for an intense game against AZ?

— Yes, you’re right: friendly matches are one thing, official matches are completely different. We’re also curious to see how we handle that tempo. But in terms of gameplay, I see progress and hope it will be noticeable tomorrow.

— During the winter transfer window, Noah did not make major signings and will play with largely the same squad as in the league phase. But there will definitely be one reinforcement — the fans in the stands. What would you like to say to them before the match?

— The fans played an important role when we beat Legia and reached the playoffs. I want them to come tomorrow with positive energy and support us throughout the entire game. I promise they will go home feeling proud of their team.

— Noah often conceded in the early minutes during the league phase. Tomorrow is the playoffs and an important match — have you worked on that?

— We worked on all aspects of the game, but in football there is always room for small details and surprises. I hope that tomorrow we won’t concede at all — neither at the beginning nor during the match.

— AZ are considered favorites. Is that pressure for you?

— AZ are indeed a strong team, and they have one of the best academies in the world. Yes, they are favorites. But in football, the most important things are hard work and performance over 90 minutes. Everything else doesn’t matter.

— When Mourinho won the Champions League with Porto, he ran across the entire pitch. For Noah, reaching the next round would be no less significant. What will you do in case of victory?

— I’ll run across the whole of Yerevan, not just the pitch.

— Two left wingers, Pinson and Grgić, left the team this winter. So far, there has been only one signing — Misak Hakobyan. What are your expectations of him, and will we see him tomorrow?

— Yes, some players have left the team. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for everything they did and wish them success in their future careers. As for Misak Hakobyan, we had the opportunity to sign a young Armenian player, and we took it. He has great potential but still has room to improve. He will not play tomorrow or in the second leg because he is not registered for the Conference League, but you will see him in the Armenian championship.

— There have been no other transfers so far. Are you satisfied with the winter transfer campaign? Which positions would you like to strengthen?

— Coaches always want more players. But transfers are a complex process — many factors must align for the right player to join the team. We are always active in the market. As for positions — if it’s a good player, you need to sign him.

— What is AZ’s strongest side?

— They have individually strong players and play with intensity for all 90 minutes. It’s a dynamic team. Their wingers and midfielders create numerical superiority. Moreover, many key players have returned from injury. I’m very curious to see how tomorrow’s match unfolds.

— There were changes in the coaching staff this winter. What will this bring to the team?

— The goalkeeping coach and fitness coach were replaced. It’s normal rotation that should improve our work — just like any transfer.

— Recently, Noah presented a new training base. How will this help the team?

— Not many clubs in Europe have such infrastructure. Armenia should be proud to have this kind of base. I even sent photos to fellow coaches and players — they were pleasantly surprised by the conditions. I’m sure this will help Noah reach a higher level, but it takes time.

— What is the condition of Imran Oulad after his injury? And how are Fayulu and Sangaré, who participated in the Africa Cup of Nations this winter?

— Imran Oulad has returned after two injuries and is now in good shape, but he’s not yet ready to play all 90 minutes. Nevertheless, I’m satisfied with his condition. He will give us additional strength because he missed most of the season after a great start. Fayulu and Sangaré joined the team later than the others, but they are in excellent shape and fully ready to play.