Sabah Baku 1–2 FC Neftchi Baku
Azerbaijan Premier League | 17 May 2026, 22:00

Match Overview

Neftchi Baku edged out local rivals Sabah Baku in a tense Azerbaijan Premier League derby, coming from behind to win 2–1 at the Bank Respublika Arena. The victory strengthened Neftchi’s push for a top‑four finish, while Sabah were left to rue missed opportunities in front of goal.

First Half – Sabah Strike First

Sabah started brightly and took a deserved lead in the 23rd minute. A sweeping move down the left flank ended with a low cross that found Ramil Sheydayev, who swept the ball home from close range. The hosts dominated possession for much of the first period but failed to double their advantage, with Neftchi goalkeeper Salahat Aghayev making two smart saves.

Second Half – Neftchi’s Response

Neftchi emerged with renewed purpose after the interval. They equalised in the 57th minute when Emin Mahmudov cracked a first‑time shot from the edge of the box that deflected past the Sabah keeper. The visitors grew in confidence and completed the turnaround in the 74th minute. A corner kick was met by Yusuf Lawal, who powered a header into the net.

Key Moments

• 23' – Ramil Sheydayev gives Sabah the lead with a clinical finish.
• 57' – Emin Mahmudov’s deflected strike levels the score.
• 74' – Yusuf Lawal heads home from a set piece to make it 2–1.
• 88' – Sabah’s Tellur Mutallimov hits the crossbar with a powerful drive.

Tactical Story

Sabah controlled the tempo early on but became too reliant on crossing from wide areas. Neftchi, under the guidance of manager Arif Asadov, adjusted at half‑time by pressing higher and cutting off supply lines to Sabah’s forwards. The away side’s set‑piece efficiency proved decisive – their second goal came from a corner that Sabah failed to clear.

Standout Players

• Emin Mahmudov (Neftchi) – Scored the equaliser and orchestrated the midfield.
• Yusuf Lawal (Neftchi) – Won several aerial duels and netted the winner.
• Ramil Sheydayev (Sabah) – A constant threat despite playing on a tight pitch.

Impact on the Table

The win moved Neftchi Baku up to third place in the Azerbaijan Premier League, keeping them within striking distance of leaders Qarabag. Sabah, meanwhile, dropped to sixth, four points adrift of the European qualification spots.