World Cup Qualifier: Azerbaijan and Ukraine Share Points in 1-1 Draw
Azerbaijan secured a 1-1 draw against Ukraine in a World Cup qualifier, thanks to Emin Mahmudov's penalty kick. Learn more about the match.
Azerbaijan's fortunes changed when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalized for handball in the box after a VAR review...
Azerbaijan's national football team, led by interim manager Aykhan Abbasov, secured a 1-1 draw against Ukraine in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. This unexpected point puts Azerbaijan in a precarious yet hopeful position in Group D. The match, held at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium, saw Ukraine dominate possession but ultimately unable to capitalize on their scoring chances consistently.
The game took an interesting turn after Fernando Santos' dismissal as Azerbaijan's head coach, with Abbasov taking the reins just 24 hours prior. Despite the uncertainty, Azerbaijan's team showed resilience, particularly after Ukraine's Georgiy Sudakov scored in the 51st minute. However, the hosts equalized in the 72nd minute with a penalty converted by Emin Mahmudov, showcasing their determination.
This draw has significant implications for both teams, with Ukraine's World Cup qualification hopes facing a setback. Azerbaijan, meanwhile, looks to build momentum under their new leadership.
Azerbaijan defender Bahlul Mustafazada was initially penalized for a rough challenge in the box just two minutes into the match, but the penalty call was overturned after a VAR review. This early decision set the tone for a closely contested match.
Ukraine dominated possession in the opening half-hour, accounting for over 70% of the ball control. Despite this, Azerbaijan appeared uneasy but managed to hold their ground. The match gained momentum around the 35-minute mark when Ivan Kaliuzhnyi had a shot blocked at the end of a corner kick, indicating a growing intensity in the game.
Azerbaijan's fortunes almost changed just before halftime when Emin Mahmudov's free kick was expertly saved by Ukraine's goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin. This crucial stop prevented Azerbaijan from potentially taking an undeserved lead, which would have marked their first goal in 15 matches.
The second half saw Ukraine assert their dominance, taking the lead in the 50th minute. A well-executed move down the right flank ended with Oleksandr Zubkov delivering a precise pass to Heorhiy Sudakov, who scored with a powerful shot past Shahrudin Mahammadaliyev in the Azerbaijan goal.
Emin Mahmudov scored his fourth senior international goal, just shy of a year since his last, bringing much-needed inspiration to Azerbaijan's campaign. The team desperately required a boost to avoid their eighth loss in nine World Cup qualifiers at home.
Azerbaijan's fortunes changed when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalized for handball in the box after a VAR review, providing an unexpected lifeline. Mahmudov converted the penalty, leveling the score 1-1 against Ukraine in the 72nd minute. This crucial point has significant implications for Azerbaijan's World Cup qualifying hopes.
Emin Mahmudov redeemed himself with a brilliant chip into the right corner, beating Ukraine's goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin and securing a 1-1 draw for Azerbaijan. This late twist in the match showcased Mahmudov's determination to make amends for his earlier missed opportunity.
Both Azerbaijan and Ukraine now have one point each from their first two matches in the qualification cycle. The outcome of other matches in Group D could see a significant five-point gap to automatic qualification emerge later tonight, adding pressure to both teams' campaigns.
Despite the challenges ahead, particularly in finding a new permanent manager, Azerbaijan views this draw as a sign of progress. Their previous qualifier against Iceland ended in a 5-0 loss, making this result a welcome improvement. Ukraine, on the other hand, will focus on strengthening their defense, given their recent trend of conceding in most matches.
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