Azerbaijan snatched a dramatic 76-75 victory over Ireland in a Europe Basketball Championship qualifier on February 28, 2026. In a heart-stopping finish, Azerbaijan executed a final play to score at the buzzer or hit crucial free throws in the dying seconds to steal the win on Irish soil. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with Ireland holding a narrow lead for much of the contest behind the support of their home crowd. Azerbaijan stayed patient and within striking distance, setting the stage for a frantic final minute. With the game on the line, an Azerbaijan player made a decisive drive or shot to put their team ahead, leaving Ireland devastated after a valiant effort. The 76-75 result was a massive boost for Azerbaijan's qualification hopes and a bitter pill for Ireland to swallow.