Qarabag vs. CSKA Sofia – UEFA Europa League, 24 July 2026

Qarabag and CSKA Sofia played out a tense goalless draw in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium on 24 July 2026. Both sides had opportunities but lacked a cutting edge in front of goal, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of the return leg in Bulgaria.

Match Overview

The match was a tactical chess match from the outset, with both teams respecting each other’s attacking threats. Qarabag enjoyed the majority of possession (62%) and created the clearer chances, but CSKA Sofia’s disciplined defensive organisation frustrated the Azerbaijani champions. The visitors, playing on the counter‑attack, had a few moments of their own but failed to test the home goalkeeper with sufficient power or precision.

Key Moments

• 19' – Qarabag’s best chance – A corner was flicked on by Bahlul Mustafazada, and the ball fell to Abdellah Zoubir at the far post, but his volley flew inches over the bar.
• 34' – CSKA Sofia’s reply – A quick break saw Thibaut Vion feed Georgi Yomov, whose low shot from the edge of the area was smothered by Shahruddin Mahammadaliyev.
• 58' – Close again for Qarabag – Kady Borges curled a free‑kick towards the top corner, but CSKA goalkeeper Gustavo Busatto tipped it onto the crossbar.
• 71' – Red card scare for CSKA – Defender Ivan Turitsov was booked for a late tackle and escaped a second yellow by millimetres after a similar challenge minutes later.
• 85' – Final chance – Qarabag substitute Musa Gurbanov headed straight at Busatto from a corner.

Tactical Story

Qarabag manager Gurban Gurbanov set up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, looking to dominate possession and create overloads in wide areas. CSKA Sofia’s Tomislav Stipić deployed a compact 4‑4‑2 mid‑block, inviting pressure and hitting on the break. The home side’s inability to convert set‑pieces – normally a strength – was the defining factor. CSKA’s defence, led by experienced centre‑back Younes Namli, held firm under sustained pressure.

Standout Players

Gustavo Busatto (CSKA Sofia) was the standout performer, making five saves including the vital tip onto the bar. Bahlul Mustafazada (Qarabag) was dominant in the air but unable to find the net. Younes Namli marshalled the CSKA back four superbly, making eight clearances and blocking two shots.

Season Impact

The 0-0 scoreline keeps the tie wide open. Qarabag will feel they should have won, but the away goal rule is no longer in effect in UEFA competitions, meaning a score draw in Sofia would send CSKA through. The return leg at the Stadion Balgarska Armia on 31 July promises to be a tense affair, with both sides still firmly in contention for a place in the second qualifying round.