After the historic achievement in European competitions, specifically the Champions League, one of the key figures of the Tetova-based club Shkëndija, Mevlan Murati, has reflected on the journey toward this success, which he says has been anticipated for more than a decade.
In an interview for KosovaPress, Murati commented on past challenges, expectations, reaction to statements from the opposing camp and the next goals – including a big dream: qualifying for the Champions League group stage.
Shkëndija eliminated Steaua Bucharest in the second qualifying round, showing their strength and seriousness against high-level opponents.
“To be honest, we’ve been waiting for this success for nearly ten years. Every year there were the same ambitions to reach the group stage, and this year was the key to our success… I believe the trust was huge from everyone—the team, the coach, the owners, and the club leadership—and finally, we achieved our goal,” Murati said.
Murati emphasized that Steaua were favorites on paper, but the players’ sacrifice on the field made the difference across both matches.
“There wasn’t more pressure, no. From the first match we were focused, game by game, because these European games are delicate. With the experience we had, I believe we were better—speaking of the first round. Then, in the second round, we faced a very strong team, and the expectations were even higher. The self-confidence was greater too, because they were a very big team. Even though they were the favorites on paper, we proved that anything can happen on the field,” Murati continued.
To secure a spot in the Champions League group stage, Shkëndija must now defeat Qarabag in the playoff, something Murati says they are ready to give their best.
“We’ve achieved our main objective. Now we’re one step away, and why not make an even bigger one—to enter the Champions League group stage. I believe Qarabag is at the same level as the team we just played, Steaua, and we’ll give our best in that match, of course, to secure qualification,” said Murati.
Murati also responded to the statement by Steaua’s president, Gigi Becali, who said after the match that his team was eliminated by a very weak team like Shkëndija.
“I do have a response, but first let’s mention that even before the match there were such statements. But on our side, we didn’t bother with them at all, with what they were saying. To be honest, we focused on our work, and the result speaks for itself—the field showed everything, regardless of their statements,” Murati emphasized.
Murati also offered advice to Drita players, as the team from Gjilan will face Steaua in the Europa League.
“One piece of advice I’d give: play football and don’t show too much respect to the opponent, because in the end, football is equal for everyone. The field shows everything, and they can take some motivation from us having eliminated them—anything is possible… Drita definitely has quality, and they showed it against Copenhagen in the first match and in the second match. I believe and hope they succeed, and I wish them the best of luck in advancing further,” Murati concluded.
Shkëndija will face Qarabag in the Champions League on August 5, starting at 20:00. /A.Bytyçi/