Elnur Sadigov

In Elnur Sadigov’s opinion, football has been a life-changing source of hope and resilience for many veterans of the Karabakh conflict, including himself. He recalls how, in 1993, while serving in the Azerbaijani army, he was severely injured by a landmine, losing one leg and a part of the other. For years, he and many other veterans struggled with the physical and emotional toll of their injuries, confined to their homes without a clear sense of purpose. However, when amputee football was introduced in Azerbaijan, it gave these veterans a renewed sense of belonging and direction. Sadigov, who is one of the founders of the Azerbaijani amputee football team, believes that the sport has helped veterans regain their "lost foot" on the field, allowing them to rediscover their strength.

Sadigov reflects on his motivation for establishing the football team, noting that Azerbaijan’s long-standing struggle against Armenian occupation inspired him to create something that would represent the resilience and spirit of the Azerbaijani people. He points out that football is a universally loved sport, and its ability to bring people together made it the perfect platform for veterans to showcase their strength and determination. For Sadigov, the football field became a place where veterans could find solace, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose, while also promoting Azerbaijan’s name and flag on an international stage.

Despite the physical challenges of playing football with one leg, Sadigov is proud to continue playing as a role model for others. He believes that by participating in the sport, he can inspire others to push through difficulties and achieve success. Sadigov emphasizes that success does not come easily; it requires hard work, suffering, and perseverance. He shares how many people initially doubted that amputee football players could compete at a high level, but through their dedication, they have proven that anything is possible.

One of Sadigov’s proudest moments came when the Azerbaijani amputee football team secured second place in a European tournament in Scotland. He recalls how the team prepared tirelessly, enduring both extreme heat and cold during their training. Their efforts paid off when they achieved this unexpected success, bringing immense joy and pride to Azerbaijan. For Sadigov, the moment when the Azerbaijani flag was raised in Scotland was unforgettable. It represented not only a victory for the team but also a tribute to the sacrifices made by Azerbaijan’s martyrs in the liberation of Karabakh.

Sadigov believes that amputee football has provided veterans with a new lease on life, allowing them to continue serving their country in a different capacity. The support and care provided by the Azerbaijani government have been instrumental in the team’s success, and Sadigov is grateful for the opportunities that have been created for disabled veterans to thrive. As the leader of the team, he remains committed to promoting the sport and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Ultimately, Sadigov’s journey from the battlefield to the football field is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He believes that through amputee football, veterans like himself can continue to represent Azerbaijan with pride and honor, both on and off the field.