Qarabağ FK

Qarabağ Football Club from Aghdam, Azerbaijan, has become a symbol of sporting success and national pride. In the 2025/2026 season, the club achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time, marking a landmark moment for Azerbaijani football. This article explores the club’s history, achievements, current squad, and ambitions on the European stage, as well as its significance for its supporters.

History and Formation of the Club

Qarabağ FK was founded in 1951 in Aghdam but relocated to Baku in 1993 due to regional conflict. The club’s nickname, “The Horsemen” (Azerbaijani: Qarabağ Atları), reflects its fighting spirit and connection to national culture. Since 2008, under the leadership of head coach Gurban Gurbanov, Qarabağ has dominated Azerbaijani football, securing 11 consecutive Premier League titles by 2025.

The club has frequently competed in European competitions, including the group stages of the UEFA Europa League, but its qualification for the UEFA Champions League in 2025 represents the pinnacle of its achievements. Qarabağ plays its home matches at the Tofig Bahramov Stadium in Baku, which holds 31,200 spectators, and at a new stadium in Aghdam, symbolizing the club’s return to its roots.

Achievements in European Competitions

In the 2025/2026 season, Qarabağ FK made its debut in the UEFA Champions League, joining the 36-team league phase under the new Swiss system format. The club navigated a challenging qualification path, defeating teams such as Ferencváros and Molde. In the league phase, Qarabağ will face giants like Real Madrid (September 30, 2025), Arsenal, and Inter. These matches present a formidable challenge but also a unique opportunity to shine on the global stage.

Previously, Qarabağ achieved success in the UEFA Europa League, reaching the round of 32 in the 2020/2021 season. These accomplishments have solidified the club’s reputation as Azerbaijan’s strongest team and one of the most ambitious in Eastern Europe.

Current Squad and Coaching Staff

In 2025, Qarabağ relies on a balanced squad of local talents and foreign players. Key figures include captain Maksim Medvedev, midfielder Abdellah Zoubir, known for his speed and technique, and striker Musa Gurbanli, the top scorer in the qualification rounds. Gurban Gurbanov, who has coached the club since 2008, is considered the architect of Qarabağ’s success. His tactical flexibility and emphasis on discipline have made the team competitive even against European giants.

Significance for Azerbaijan

Qarabağ is more than just a football club; it represents the Karabakh region and holds deep symbolic meaning for the Azerbaijani people. Qualifying for the Champions League was celebrated as a national triumph, with matches uniting thousands of fans and fostering a sense of solidarity. The club actively supports youth football, developing an academy that nurtures future stars.

Predictions for the 2025/2026 Season

In the Champions League, Qarabağ is considered an underdog, but the Swiss system offers opportunities for upsets. Analysts predict the club could earn points in home matches against lower-ranked teams like Pafos or Bodø/Glimt. The primary goal is to finish in the top 24 to advance to the knockout round play-offs. In the Azerbaijan Premier League, Qarabağ remains the favorite, aiming for a 12th consecutive title.

Conclusion

Qarabağ FK achieved historic success in 2025 by becoming the first Azerbaijani club to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. With a rich history, a strong squad, and an inspiring coach, the club continues to conquer new heights. The 2025/2026 season promises to be a defining moment for “The Horsemen,” with their matches drawing global attention. Follow Qarabağ’s journey to witness new chapters in the history of Azerbaijani football.