Qarabag take on the visitors Ferencvaros in the second leg of UEFA Champions League Qualification final round. First leg result: 3-1. The match will be played on Wednesday, August 27th at Tofiq Bahramov Stadium (Baku).
Qarabag have long been the undisputed flagbearers of Azerbaijani football, with virtually no domestic competition to stop them. Yes, Neftchi briefly rose to the top, but before and after that period, Gurbanov’s men dominated the league, and last season was no exception. For years, however, the real focus in Baku has been Europe, with the club determined to return to the main round of the Champions League. This year they came closer than ever, although the path has been relatively straightforward so far. Shelbourne and Shkendija were opponents Qarabag simply had to beat, and they did so convincingly — four wins out of four matches with a perfect record. Importantly, the team showed not only results but also attacking consistency, averaging more than two goals per game in qualifying. Now, for the first time in this campaign, they face a genuinely serious test.
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Ferencvaros are also fully focused on the Champions League. The Fradi may boast a far longer and richer history than their rivals from the Caucasus, but their return as Hungary’s true flagship is relatively recent. Over the past decade, they have built a dynasty of domestic titles, although last season their supremacy was briefly threatened. The arrival of Robbie Keane in the winter proved decisive, and he guided the team to yet another championship in Budapest. This season, dropped points in the league have raised some questions, but all attention is currently on Europe. They have already eliminated Noah (2-1, 4-3) and Ludogorets (0-0, 3-0), showing both resilience and attacking flair. Against Qarabag in the first leg, Ferencvaros started strong, scoring first and going into halftime with an advantage, but defensive lapses cost them dearly in the second half. Their recent form away from home has also been shaky, which makes the return leg in Baku an even tougher challenge.
In the 2022 Champions League qualifiers, Gurbanov’s men drew at home before winning in Budapest. A year later, the clubs played a thrilling friendly that ended in a high-scoring draw. Having won away, Qarabag will be determined to finish the job at home. Back the Azeri champions to claim another victory in front of their fans.
Prediction for the match: Qarabag to win.
