Yagub Abdullayev: 'Azerbaijan athletes motivated by host nation tag'

Azerbaijan sambo coach Yagub Abdullayev has insisted that being the host nation of the European Games has made his side more motivated.

The hosts are expected to do well across the event's different weights, with the sport being popular in many regions towards the East of Europe and beyond.

"No. On the contrary, we are feeling very motivated by this," said Abdullayev, when asked if his side felt pressure being part of the host nation.

"With this kind of event being held in our country, we are not feeling any pressure from a psychological perspective, only motivation."

Azerbaijan currently hold second place in the Baku medals table.