Radnicki Nis 0-3 FC Neftci Baku: Azerbaijani Side Dominates in Friendly Rout

FC Neftci Baku put on a commanding display in their International Club Friendly against Serbian side Radnicki Nis on July 10, 2026, securing a comprehensive 3-0 victory. The match, played at a neutral venue (likely in a pre-season training camp), showcased the Azerbaijani club’s sharp attacking form and defensive solidity as they prepare for their upcoming domestic campaign.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Neftci Baku controlled the tempo, pressing high and disrupting Radnicki Nis’s build-up play. The Serbian team, still finding their rhythm in pre-season, struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized Neftci backline. The goals came at regular intervals, with Neftci’s fluid movement in the final third proving too much for the Radnicki defense.

Key Moments

• First Half Dominance: Neftci opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through a clinical finish from a quick counter-attack. A precise through ball split the Radnicki defense, and the striker slotted home calmly past the keeper.
• Second-Half Extension: The Azerbaijani side doubled their lead just after the hour mark (62’) with a well-worked set-piece. A corner kick was headed home by a towering defender at the near post.
• Late Insurance Goal: In the 78th minute, Neftci capped off the performance with a third goal, a low drive from outside the box that took a slight deflection, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

Tactical Story

Radnicki Nis attempted to build through the middle but were repeatedly stifled by Neftci’s compact midfield. The Serbian side’s best opportunity came in the 35th minute when a long-range effort forced a diving save from the Neftci keeper. However, they failed to sustain pressure, often losing possession in transition. Neftci Baku, under their coach’s instructions, exploited the spaces left by Radnicki’s adventurous full-backs, creating overloads on the wings.

Standout Players

For Neftci Baku, the central midfield pairing controlled the game, while the striker who opened the scoring showed excellent movement. On the Radnicki side, the goalkeeper made several saves to prevent an even heavier defeat, and the left-back worked tirelessly despite the scoreline.

Season Impact

For Radnicki Nis, this friendly serves as a learning experience, highlighting areas such as defensive transitions and set-piece marking that need refinement before the Serbian SuperLiga season. Neftci Baku, meanwhile, will take confidence from this clean-sheet victory as they continue their pre-season preparations for the Azerbaijan Premier League. Friendlies like these are crucial for building match fitness and testing tactical adjustments.