Azerbaijan Women Secure Crucial 3-1 Victory Away at North Macedonia

Azerbaijan Women earned a vital 3-1 win over North Macedonia Women in a FIFA Women's World Cup qualifier on June 10, 2026. The match, played in North Macedonia, saw the visitors produce a disciplined second-half display to come from behind and claim three important points.

Match Recap

North Macedonia started brightly and took a lead in the 20th minute when their striker volleyed home from a corner. Azerbaijan struggled initially but grew into the game. Just before the interval, they equalized with a close-range finish after a goalmouth scramble.

In the second half, Azerbaijan took control. They scored twice more, first from a powerful strike outside the box and then a well-placed header from a free-kick. North Macedonia pushed forward in the closing stages but failed to break down the organized Azerbaijani defense.

Key Moments

• North Macedonia’s opener: A set-piece goal gave them an early advantage.
• Equalizer just before half-time: A scrappy but vital goal that changed momentum.
• Azerbaijan’s go-ahead goal: A long-range effort that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Tactical Battle

Azerbaijan set up in a compact 4-4-1-1, absorbing pressure and hitting on the counter. North Macedonia used a 4-3-3 but lacked creativity in the final third. As Azerbaijan dropped deeper in the second half, they exploited the spaces left by North Macedonia’s advancing full-backs.

Standout Players

• Azerbaijan’s central midfielder: Scored one goal and dictated the tempo from midfield.
• North Macedonia’s goalkeeper: Made several saves but was ultimately beaten three times.

Qualifying Implications

This away win lifted Azerbaijan in the group table and gave them a confidence boost ahead of tougher fixtures. North Macedonia remained near the bottom, now facing a difficult path to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.