Sumgayit FK Edged by Qarabag in Seven‑Goal Thriller – 3–4

In one of the most entertaining matches of the Azerbaijan Premier League season, Sumgayit FK fell just short against champions Qarabag in a 3–4 defeat on May 22, 2026. The match at Sumgayit’s home stadium had everything – early goals, comebacks, controversial moments, and a dramatic late winner.

Match Overview

Qarabag started brightly and raced into a 2‑0 lead inside 20 minutes, showing the quality that has made them perennial title contenders. Sumgayit refused to buckle, pulling one back just before the half‑hour mark and equalizing early in the second half. The pendulum swung again as Qarabag regained the lead, only for Sumgayit to level once more. The decisive moment came in the 82nd minute when Qarabag’s striker finished a slick team move.

Key Moments

• 12' – Qarabag 1–0: A swift counterattack ended with a low drive into the far corner.
• 19' – Qarabag 2–0: A defensive slip allowed a free header from a corner kick.
• 28' – Sumgayit 1–2: A long‑range strike that took a deflection, fooling the goalkeeper.
• 52' – Sumgayit 2–2: A well‑worked set piece saw the ball squared for a tap‑in.
• 63' – Qarabag 3–2: A solo run from the left wing, cutting inside and curling into the top corner.
• 71' – Sumgayit 3–3: A penalty converted after a handball in the box.
• 82' – Qarabag 4–3: A precise one‑two and a clinical finish sealed the points.

Tactical Story

Sumgayit employed a high press that worked well in patches but left them exposed to Qarabag’s rapid transitions. Qarabag, playing their usual possession‑based style, varied their attacks between short passes and long diagonal balls. The away side’s experience in managing key moments proved crucial, especially in the final 15 minutes when Sumgayit pushed for a fourth equalizer.

Standout Performers

• Qarabag's No. 10: Scored one and assisted another, pulling the strings in midfield.
• Sumgayit's forward: Scored a brace and was a constant menace, showing composure under pressure.
• Qarabag's goalkeeper: Made a vital save at 3–3 that kept his side in the game.

Season Impact

Qarabag’s victory kept them firmly in the title race, now two points off the top. Sumgayit, despite the loss, proved they can compete with the league’s best and remain in the top half of the table. The match will be remembered as a classic of the 2026 season.