In an exclusive interview with the correspondent of Sputnik Kazakhstan, the player of the National Team of Kazakhstan and FC Astana Abzal Beisebekov spoke about the upcoming match against FC Buducnost in the Europa League.

- A lot of changes have happened in FC Astana recently. With what spirit is the team preparing for the match against Buducnost?

- After the victory over FC Ordabasy, of course, the team’s spirit is high. Everyone wants to continue the victorious path, and I hope that after the match against Buducnost the mood will be even better!

- What can you say about your opponent in the Europa League? What are the strengths of the team?

- There are no weak teams in European Competitions, especially Buducnost is the Champion of Montenegro. They did not start the championship in the best way, but they won the last match – 3:1. In general, the team is organized, and capable of causing problems to any opponent.

- How are the training sessions under the management of Paul Ashworth? What has changed since he joined the team as a coach?

- Each coach has his own approach to the team, to training sessions. Paul gives more exercise with the ball. He has been working in the structure of the club for almost two years, so he is familiar with the players, so it is a little easier for him in this regard.

- The match against Buducnost will be held in Almaty at the Central Stadium. Is it more of an advantage or disadvantage for the team?

- This is a twofold situation: on the one hand, of course, I already want to return to my home field, to Astana Arena, but on the other hand – now the entire Kazakhstan Championship is being held in Almaty. Therefore, we do not need to fly anywhere to the “home” match on Central Stadium.

- FC Kairat broke away from Astana in the Championship and gained a good pace. Do you think you can catch up with the Almaty team?

- So far, only eight rounds have been played, so the whole struggle is still ahead. Moreover, we still have two face-to-face meetings with FC Kairat.

- I’ll ask you about the match against Belarus, in which you took part for the national team. How did you come to the national team camp under the management of Bilek after his shift from FC Astana? What is the reason for the defeat from Belarus, besides the personal mistakes of the players?

- I cannot say that this visit was different from the previous ones. It is an honour for me to play for the national team, so I always come at the disposal of the team with a great desire, regardless of the coach.

As for the match against Belarus, then, perhaps, the team left a lot of energy and emotions in the first match against Lithuania. Perhaps this was not enough in the end of the match against Belarus.

- Who is the favourite in the upcoming Europa League match?

- Probably, considering that the match will be held in Kazakhstan, we have more chances, but everything will be decided on the football field! It is on it that you need to prove your advantage.

- Good luck in the match!

It should be noted that Buducnost from Podgorica will play against Astana on September 17 in the 2^nd Qualifying Round of the Europa League. The match will take place at 20:00 by Nur-Sultan time.