Neftchi Baku and Buducnost Podgorica Play Out Stalemate in UEFA Women's Champions League Qualifier

In a tightly contested opening round of the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying stage, Neftchi Baku (W) and Buducnost Podgorica (w) battled to a goalless draw at the Baku Football Academy on 22 July 2026. Neither side was able to break the deadlock in a match defined by defensive discipline and a lack of clear-cut chances, leaving the tie perfectly balanced ahead of the second leg.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the fixture with cautious approaches, aware that an away goal or an early lead could prove decisive in the two-legged qualifying tie. Neftchi Baku, champions of the Azerbaijani Women's League, relied on a compact defensive structure, while Montenegrin titleholders Buducnost Podgorica looked to exploit quick transitions. However, the first half offered little in the way of goalmouth action, as midfield battles consumed much of the energy.

Key Moments

• 15th minute: Buducnost Podgorica's Ana Đukanović tested Neftchi goalkeeper Aysel Guliyeva with a curling free kick from 25 yards, but the shot was palmed over the bar.
• 33rd minute: Neftchi's best chance came when forward Kamilla Mammadova latched onto a through ball, only to see her strike from a tight angle saved by Buducnost keeper Jelena Škerović.
• 62nd minute: A speculative long-range effort from Buducnost midfielder Milica Karličić flew just wide of the post.
• 78th minute: Neftchi substitute Lala Aliyeva nearly scored with a header from a corner, but it was straight at Škerović.

Tactical Story

The match quickly settled into a pattern of defensive solidity. Neftchi Baku adopted a 4‑4‑2 shape when not in possession, forcing Buducnost to build slowly. The Montenegrin side, in a 4‑3‑3 formation, struggled to find space between the lines. Both teams recorded only three shots on target apiece, with most attempts coming from distance. The lack of a creative spark in the final third was evident, as neither midfield could consistently supply the forwards.

Standout Players

• Aysel Guliyeva (Neftchi Baku): The goalkeeper made a crucial save in the first half and commanded her area well on crosses.
• Jelena Škerović (Buducnost Podgorica): Composed and assured, she dealt confidently with Neftchi's limited forays forward.
• Narmin Aslanova (Neftchi Baku): The centre‑back organised the defensive line and made several important interceptions.

Season and Qualification Impact

The goalless draw means everything remains to play for in the return leg, scheduled for the following week in Podgorica. Neither side has yet secured an advantage, though Buducnost Podgorica will feel slightly more confident having avoided defeat away from home. The winner of the tie will advance to the second qualifying round, edging closer to the group stage of the UEFA Women's Champions League. For both Neftchi Baku and Buducnost Podgorica, this competition represents a major platform to showcase their development in women's football.