Georgia's Willy Sagnol emphasises importance of historic Caucasus derby against Armenia

Willy Sagnol, Georgia's national football team head coach, on Friday described the upcoming UEFA Nations League clash against Armenia as a historic moment, calling it a “Caucasian derby” and noting that tough matches were expected ahead.

In his remarks at a press conference, Sagnol discussed the upcoming match and emphasised that the Georgian national team were not a league C-level team, and must secure its place in the league B.

“This is a Caucasus derby, and we are expecting tough matches. However, we are not a league C team, and we must secure our place in League B”, Sagnol said.

The coach pointed out that Guram Kashia and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia would miss the first match against Armenia, but both would be present at the training camp, adding that their absence gave other players a chance, including Saba Goglichidze.

“In Kashia’s absence, Otar Kiteishvili will wear the captain’s armband for the first time in Yerevan, while Guram will return and reclaim the role in the second leg. However, Kiteishvili could be our next captain in the future”, he said.

“Mamardashvili and Valencia are going through a difficult period, but we know Giorgi’s abilities and we believe that he will regain his form soon. As for Kvaratskhelia, he is happy at PSG and works hard defensively as well”, Sagnol noted.

The winner of the two-legged tie between Georgia and Armenia will secure a spot in UEFA Nations League’s League B.

The first match is set for March 20 in Yerevan, with the return leg on March 23 in Tbilisi.