Qarabag Secures Late Victory Over Frankfurt, Boosting Champions League Hopes

Qarabag FK achieved a crucial 3-2 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt on January 21, 2024, keeping their Champions League playoff hopes alive. The late winner from Bahlul Mustafazade sealed the match for the Azerbaijani team, while Frankfurt’s defeat confirms their exit from the competition. Currently, Qarabag sits in 17th place with 10 points, while Frankfurt languishes in 33rd with only 4 points.

The match, held in Baku, started energetically for the hosts as they took the lead in the fourth minute. After a close-range effort by Leandro Parade was parried by Frankfurt goalkeeper Kaua Santos, Camilo Duran was quick to react, bundling the rebound over the line for an early goal.

Frankfurt responded six minutes later when Can Uzun capitalized on a misplaced pass from Pedro Bicalho. Stealing the ball at the edge of the Qarabag area, he advanced into the box and delivered a precise shot into the bottom corner, leveling the score at 1-1.

Despite creating several opportunities, Qarabag struggled to regain the lead before halftime. The second half proved more tense, with both teams cautious in their approach. However, Frankfurt was awarded a penalty with 12 minutes remaining, which substitute Fares Chaibi successfully converted, putting the German side ahead at 2-1.

Qarabag responded immediately, equalizing just two minutes later. A well-placed pass from Elvin Jafarguliyev into the six-yard box allowed Duran to score his second, tapping the ball in to make it 2-2.

As the match approached its conclusion, the tension escalated. In dramatic fashion, Bahlul Mustafazade struck the decisive blow in the dying moments, scoring the winner from close range. This victory not only boosts Qarabag’s morale but also keeps their Champions League aspirations intact as they prepare for their next challenge.

Looking ahead, both teams will face tough opposition on the final matchday of the league phase. Qarabag will travel to face Liverpool, while Frankfurt will host Tottenham Hotspur next Wednesday. Each team will be eager to secure points as the competition intensifies.