Theo Weeks’ Azerbaijan club, Gabala FK, faces an uphill task against the French club Lille, on its journey to reach the group stage of the 2016-2017 UEFA Europa League.

Gabala must overcome Lille Olympique Sporting Club, which finished fifth in the French League One table. Because of Lille’s season performance,  it is the favorite to advance to the group stage over Gabala.

However, Weeks, who has scored five times in Gabala previous four qualifying matches, has no fear of meeting the French club.

Weeks has backed his team to reach the group stage, and insists his club is not afraid of a Lille.

“We respect our opponent, but we are not afraid of them,” he said. “We are going to play football. It is all about preparation. We are fully prepared and are ready to move to the group stage. It will be a difficult match, but I’m confident of my team qualifying. We came from the first round to reach this stage. We played stronger teams but managed to qualify. We are physically and mentally fit for the encounter.”

The first leg will be played today at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in France, and the return leg on August 4, at the Gabala City stadium in Azerbaijan.

Featured photo courtesy of Gabala FK