The dream is alive for Hull City. Head coach Sergej Jakirovic couldn't hide his emotions after guiding the Tigers to the Championship play-off final, calling the achievement "like a dream" following a commanding 2-0 victory over Millwall in the semi-final second leg.
Goals from Mo Belloumi and Joe Gelhardt sealed Hull's ticket to Wembley, completing a memorable turnaround for a club that faced significant adversity earlier in the season. "If you told me at the start of the season you would be in the final, I would say you are crazy," Jakirovic admitted, reflecting on the club's challenging circumstances, including a transfer embargo that limited their options.
What makes this run so special is the chemistry Jakirovic has cultivated within his squad. "This group of players, since day one, they're very hardworking, their togetherness is fantastic," he explained. "There's very high chemistry between them, they are literally friends there. Every day they are together."
For the Hull boss, this achievement ranks among the best of his career. "Since I'm a coach, maybe the best thing I've done. I won some titles, which is great, but in these circumstances, to be in the final is a great achievement," he said, acknowledging the magnitude of the moment.
The victory wasn't without its challenges. "Millwall are very difficult and demanding – we knew they would start well and be a threat," Jakirovic noted. But his side held firm, and now the Tigers are heading to the iconic Wembley Stadium with a shot at promotion. "It's a great feeling and an amazing feeling," he added. "We are going to Wembley."
