Dinamo Minsk 0–1 FC Neftci Baku
UEFA Europa Conference League – First Qualifying Round – 31 July 2026

FC Neftci Baku took a crucial step towards the next qualifying round with a 1–0 away win over Dinamo Minsk at the Dinamo Stadium. A first-half goal from winger Ramil Sheydayev proved enough as the Azerbaijani side defended stoutly to claim a valuable away victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Match Overview

The match in Minsk was played in a tense atmosphere, with Dinamo eager to impose themselves on home soil. However, Neftci Baku, a club with strong European pedigree, absorbed early pressure and struck against the run of play in the 28th minute. Sheydayev latched onto a through ball from midfield, dribbled past two defenders, and slotted home from the edge of the box.

Dinamo pushed for an equaliser after the break but found a well-organised Neftci defence difficult to break down. The Belarusian side had a goal disallowed for offside in the 67th minute, and their frustration grew as Neftci’s goalkeeper Andrey Savitskiy made several key saves. The visitors held on to secure a clean sheet and control of the tie.

Key Moments

• 28' – Sheydayev opens the scoring with a superb solo effort.
• 45+2' – Dinamo’s Pavel Sedko hits the side netting from a tight angle.
• 67' – Dinamo have a goal ruled out for offside after a VAR check.
• 84' – Savitskiy denies Dinamo’s Yevgeniy Shevchenko with a reflex save.

Tactical Story

Dinamo Minsk set up in a 4-2-3-1 looking to dominate possession through midfield, but Neftci Baku countered with a compact 4-5-1 that reduced space in central areas. The Azerbaijanis’ goal came from a quick transition, exploiting Dinamo’s high defensive line. In the second half, Neftci dropped deeper and invited pressure, but Dinamo lacked the cutting edge to break through.

Standout Players

Ramil Sheydayev was the match-winner with his goal and tireless running. Goalkeeper Andrey Savitskiy earned high praise for his composed performance, particularly in the final 20 minutes. For Dinamo, Nikita Kaplenko worked hard in midfield but could not influence the final third.

Season Impact and Return Leg Preview

Neftci Baku take a 1–0 aggregate lead back to the Bakcell Arena, where they will be strong favourites to finish the job. Dinamo Minsk must score at least once in Baku to have any chance, and the away goals rule makes that task even harder. For Neftci, this result continues their tradition of strong performances in early European qualifiers.