Copenhagen Coach Slams Qarabag Pitch Ahead of Champions League Match

Jacob Neestrup

FC Copenhagen's coach, Jacob Neestrup, expressed concerns about the pitch condition at Qarabag's stadium ahead of their Champions League match.

FC Copenhagen coach Jacob Neestrup said that he was not happy with the pitch when he spoke to the media ahead of the Champions...

FC Copenhagen's coach, Jacob Neestrup, expressed his concerns about the pitch conditions at Qarabag's stadium ahead of their Champions League match. During Tuesday's training session, the players noticed the pitch wasn't in the best shape, which was also discussed at the press conference. Neestrup described the pitch as difficult, mentioning there are literally holes when the ball starts rolling. However, he's determined not to use the pitch condition as an excuse, emphasizing that their goal is to win and take home at least one point.

Neestrup also expressed great respect for Qarabag, highlighting their strong attacking players and experience in European competitions. He believes both teams will face challenges adapting to the pitch, making it crucial for the team that utilizes it better to gain an advantage.

FC Copenhagen's head coach, Jacob Neestrup, expressed his concerns about the pitch condition at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium in Baku, where his team will face Qarabag FK in the Champions League. During Tuesday's training, the Copenhagen players noticed the pitch wasn't in the best shape, and Neestrup echoed their sentiments at the press conference, describing it as "difficult" with literal holes. Despite this, Neestrup emphasized that the pitch's condition is equal for both teams, and Copenhagen's focus will be on adapting and using it to their advantage.

Neestrup also highlighted the strength of their opponent, Qarabag, saying they have many great attacking-minded players and are dangerous on the counter. He believes the match will be closely contested, estimating the chances between the two teams as 50/50. Neestrup's message to his team is clear: they need to take advantage of every opportunity and bring home at least one point from the match.

“It is equal for both teams, so it will of course be an important parameter in the match, in relation to which team uses the pitch best and adapts to the holes that are literally there when the ball starts rolling,” said Jacob Neestrup to Bold.dk

“There is a bit of everything, shouldn't we just say it like that?” added Neestrup when he was directly asked if there are holes in the pitch.

Regardless of the pitch conditions, FC Copenhagen's coach Jacob Neestrup is determined not to use it as an excuse and is focused on securing points in the Champions League match against Qarabag. Neestrup's priority is to adapt to the conditions and find a way to win, emphasizing that both teams will face the same challenges. With a strong emphasis on performance and results, Neestrup is keen on bringing home at least one point from the match.

“It is difficult to assess the strength ratio between us and Qarabag, but I would say 50/50 when we now play away from home.”

“In any case, we have come here to win, and we must take home at least one point, said Jacob Neestrup to FC Copenhagen website.”

FC Copenhagen's coach, Jacob Neestrup, has high praise for Qarabag FK, acknowledging their impressive performance in the Champions League. Qarabag pulled off a stunning upset in their opening match, defeating Benfica 3-2 away from home after initially trailing 2-0. This victory showcases Qarabag's determination and skill, making them a formidable opponent for Copenhagen in their upcoming match.

Neestrup's respect for Qarabag is evident, and he understands the challenges his team will face in the upcoming match. With Qarabag's momentum from their recent win, Copenhagen will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.

The Qarabag vs FC Copenhagen match kicks off at 17:45 WAT (West Africa Time) or 18:45 CET (Central European Time) on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. This highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash will take place at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium in Baku, Azerbaijan. Make sure to tune in on time to catch the action live.