FC Neftci Baku 2–4 Dinamo Minsk: Visitors Triumph in Europa Conference League Qualifier

In a Europa Conference League first qualifying round second leg on 23 July 2026, Dinamo Minsk overturned a first-leg deficit to win 4–2 away at FC Neftci Baku at the Bakcell Arena. The aggregate victory sent the Belarusian side into the next round, while Azerbaijan’s Neftci suffered a painful elimination after taking a first-half lead.

Match Overview

Neftci Baku started strongly, needing to protect a 1–0 lead from the first leg. They opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Emin Mahmudov slotted a penalty. However, Dinamo equalised in the 30th minute through a header from Ivan Bakhar. The visitors then took control, adding two goals before half-time via Artem Kontsevoy and a Neftci own goal. In the second half, Dinamo extended their lead through Pavel Savitsky in the 67th minute. Neftci’s Ramil Sheydayev pulled one back in the 82nd minute, but it was too late.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Mahmudov’s penalty put Neftci ahead on the night and level on aggregate.
• 30th minute: Bakhar’s header from a corner equalised for Dinamo.
• 38th minute: Kontsevoy fired home a rebound to give Dinamo the lead.
• 45+2 minute: A deflected cross went in off a Neftci defender.
• 67th minute: Savitsky’s long-range effort sealed the win.
• 82nd minute: Sheydayev’s consolation goal.

Tactical Story

Dinamo Minsk, managed by Vadim Skripchenko, employed a high-pressing 4-3-3 that overwhelmed Neftci’s midfield. Neftci, in a 4-4-2, could not retain possession under pressure. Dinamo’s wide attackers exploited the full-backs, creating overloads. The visitors finished with 58% possession and 12 shots on target.

Standout Players

Dinamo’s Ivan Bakhar was a menace in the air and set up two goals. Pavel Savitsky’s energy in midfield was vital. For Neftci, Emin Mahmudov was the only bright spot, scoring a penalty and creating chances.

Season Impact

Dinamo Minsk advance to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Neftci Baku now focus on the domestic Premier League, hoping to qualify again next season. The defeat exposes defensive frailties that need urgent attention.