Qarabag 0 – 0 CSKA Sofia: Stalemate in UEFA Europa League first leg

Qarabag and CSKA Sofia played out a tense goalless draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League qualifier on 24 July 2026 at the Azersun Arena. Both sides had moments of promise, but neither could find the finishing touch needed to break the deadlock.

Match overview

The match was a tactical chess match from the outset. Qarabag, playing at home, controlled possession and created several half‑chances, but CSKA Sofia’s disciplined defensive block held firm. The Bulgarian visitors, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter‑attack but lacked the final ball in the final third.

Key moments

• Best chance for Qarabag: A curling shot from outside the box forced a fingertip save from the CSKA goalkeeper just before halftime.
• CSKA’s near miss: A looping header from a corner brushed the crossbar early in the second half.
• Late pressure: Qarabag pushed for a winner in stoppage time, but the Sofia defence stood resolute.

What this means for the tie

The goalless draw gives CSKA Sofia a slight advantage heading into the second leg on home soil, as any score draw would send them through. Qarabag will need to score at the Bulgarian stadium to keep their European campaign alive. The tie remains finely balanced.