Qarabag 0-0 CSKA Sofia: nil in Baku in the 1st leg of the 2nd
According to Championat.
Context
Qarabag, a club that has excelled in European competitions, showed a solid defense with the performance of Badavi Huseynov, while CSKA Sofia will try to capitalize on their home advantage in the 2nd leg. The performance of both clubs in the Europa League could influence their season, especially in terms of morale and confidence.
Why this matters
The 0-0 draw between Qarabag and CSKA Sofia in the 1st leg of the 2nd qualifying round of the 2026/27 Europa League keeps the tie open, with both teams fighting for a place in the next phase. The lack of goals reflects the defensive solidity of both teams, but it also raises questions about the offensive capacity they will have in the 2nd leg. The decision will be crucial for the future of both teams in European competition.
Main conclusions
- Qarabag 0-0 CSKA Sofia: nil in Baku in the 1st leg of the 2nd.
- Qarabag and CSKA Sofia drew 0-0 at the start of the 2nd qualifying round of the 2026/27 Europa League, in Baku.
- Карабах — ЦСКА С, результат матча 23 июля 2026, счет 0:0, второго квалификационный раунд Лиги Европы 2026/2027 - Чемпион.
Qarabag and CSKA Sofia drew 0-0 in the first game of the 2nd qualifying round of the 2026/27 Europa League. The match was played at the Tofik Bahramov Stadium, in Baku (Azerbaijan), and ended goalless, leaving the tie completely open for the 2nd leg.
In a balanced and cautious match, neither team managed to break the deadlock over the 90 minutes. The defenses got the better of the attacks and clear opportunities were few and far between, resulting in a goalless draw that mirrors the tactical organization presented by the Azeris and Bulgarians in this start to European qualifying.
On the Qarabag side, Badavi Huseynov stands out: the Russian defender spent 74 minutes on the field. The player, who once represented Anji, was part of the eleven and helped keep the goal clean before being substituted in the second half. Goalkeeper Shahruddin Magomedaliev, born in Makhachkala, remained on the bench, unused in this first leg.
The goalless outcome means that any victory in the 2nd leg will guarantee qualification for the next round of the Europa League. Remember that UEFA abolished the away goals rule, so a new draw after 90 minutes in Sofia will take the game to extra time and, if necessary, penalties to determine the winner of the tie.
The decision is scheduled for next week: the 2nd leg will take place on July 30th, at the Vasil Levski Stadium, in Sofia (Bulgaria). At home, CSKA Sofia will have the support of their fans to try to seal the passage, while Qarabag will seek to repeat the defensive solidity shown in Baku and find efficiency in the final third to surprise away.
This 2nd qualifying round is part of the long qualifying route towards the group stage of the 2026/27 Europa League, played over two legs. After the draw in the Azerbaijani capital, the margin for error shrinks and the importance of details such as the dead ball, effort management and the bench's response grows. The way each coach adjusts the plan between the two legs could be decisive for the final outcome of a tie that, for now, has no clear favorite.
With everything leveled, the tie heads to Sofia with a simple scenario: whoever scores first will gain a precious advantage in a series that has been tied, and where defensive solidity and concentration could earn a ticket to the next phase of the UEFA competition.
What happens next
The 2nd leg is scheduled for July 30th, at the Vasil Levski Stadium, in Sofia, where any victory will be enough to guarantee qualification. With the abolition of the away goals rule, a further draw will lead to extra time and, if necessary, penalties. Teams will have to adjust their strategies to maximize their impact in the next game and advance in the Europa League.
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of the game between Qarabag and CSKA Sofia?
The game ended in a 0-0 draw.
How does the draw affect the Europa League tie?
The draw leaves the tie open, as any victory in the 2nd leg will guarantee qualification for the next round.
When will the next game between Qarabag and CSKA Sofia be?
The 2nd leg of the tie will be held on July 30th at the Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia.
What happens if there is a new draw in the 2nd leg?
If there is a new tie, the match will go to extra time and, if necessary, penalties to determine the winner.
Who stood out in Qarabag's defense during the game?
Badavi Huseynov stood out, playing 74 minutes and helping to keep the goal clean.