The Athletic, one of the world’s most influential sports publications, has published an extensive feature on the Azerbaijani champions, Qarabag FK, ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool.

The article delves into the club’s historical journey, its unique philosophy, and the symbolic weight of this high-profile matchup.

From "Refugee Club" to the European Elite

In the opening section, the author highlights Qarabag’s unique status. Forced to leave their home city of Aghdam due to conflict, the club has evolved over the years from a displaced team into a powerful symbol of national resilience. The article describes Qarabag’s consistent presence on the European stage for over a decade as nothing short of a "miracle."

Gurban Gurbanov and the Qarabag DNA

The publication highly praises head coach Gurban Gurbanov, identifying him as the primary architect of the club’s success:

"Under Gurbanov’s leadership, Qarabag has developed a distinct, disciplined, and possession-based style of play. This isn't just a tactic; it is the culmination of a robust system built over many years."

A Historic Moment at Anfield

The clash at Liverpool’s legendary Anfield stadium is portrayed as one of the brightest chapters in Azerbaijani football history. The article emphasizes that for Qarabag, this match is about more than just earning points; it is a vital opportunity to project Azerbaijan’s voice to the world, particularly in the historic home of football, England.

Key Highlights from the Feature:

  • Consistency: Qarabag’s streak of qualifying for European group stages for over ten consecutive seasons is cited as a blueprint for mid-sized European clubs.

  • National Pride: The moral significance of the team’s achievements for fans back home in Azerbaijan is given special attention.

  • Competitiveness: The piece notes that competing toe-to-toe with giants like Liverpool is no longer just a dream for Qarabag, but a hard-earned reality.

The Athletic concludes that regardless of the final score, Qarabag has already left an indelible mark on the European football map, ensuring their story will be told for years to come.