"Qarabag" beat Ferencvaros to reach Champions League group stage after eight years

Azerbaijan’s Qarabag qualified for the Champions League group stage for the first time in eight years after defeating Hungary’s Ferencvaros 5–4 on aggregate, head coach Gurban Gurbanov said the result was a historic moment for the club and the country.

“I congratulate my players. It was a very intense game with great responsibility. We managed to qualify for the Champions League. I am happy that once again we will play in Europe’s top tournament,” Gurbanov told reporters after the match.

He said President Ilham Aliyev had congratulated the team. “He has waited for many years to see Qarabag in the Champions League. I congratulate him and his family. The President once again showed that he is following us.”

Gurbanov praised the home supporters, calling the atmosphere at the stadium “completely different” from anything he had seen in years. “The fans were just as tense as we were. I thank them,” he said, adding that before the match he had urged his players to stay calm and ignore provocations.

Qarabag last played in the Champions League group stage in 2017. “As years go by, we change, and our football changes. Returning there after eight years has been possible thanks to unity and character,” Gurbanov said.

Asked about his emotional reaction at the final whistle, Gurbanov smiled: “My tears? Where did you see them? I was trying to hide them. We will continue; we are not tired. Sometimes tears of joy come even after league matches.”

He said he would celebrate the victory with his brothers before turning his attention to the draw for the group stage. “Playing in the Champions League is every footballer’s dream. It is a huge experience and an important step for promoting football in Azerbaijan. Perhaps interest in football will grow even at the state level.”

On the prospect of facing Barcelona, Gurbanov said: “I’ve been in Barcelona’s camp. Do I want to face them? For me, it may be a great danger. But for the fans, having Barcelona come to Baku would be wonderful.”

N.Tebrizli