The Tofiq Bahramov Stadium is set to host a crucial second leg of the Champions League qualification as Qarabağ FK takes on KF Shkëndija 79. Following a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the first leg, Qarabağ returns home with a significant advantage, aiming to complete the job and progress to the next round. The Azerbaijani champions, known for their strong home performances in European competitions, will be confident in their ability to seal their place in the next phase. For Shkëndija, the task is clear but daunting: they must overcome a one-goal deficit and score at a stadium where Qarabağ is notoriously difficult to beat.
Qarabağ, led by manager Gurban Gurbanov, showcased their tactical discipline and defensive rigidity in the first leg, grinding out a vital away win. The team’s creative force, Abdellah Zoubir, is a key player to watch, and his flair on the wing could be decisive in unlocking the Shkëndija defense. Over on Shkëndija’s side, they face a tough challenge but will not give up easily. The North Macedonian champions will need to be more aggressive in attack while maintaining defensive solidity to have any hope of overturning the aggregate score. Liridon Latifi, a forward with European experience, will be crucial in their offensive efforts. This match is set to be a captivating encounter, with Qarabağ’s methodical approach and home advantage clashing with a desperate Shkëndija side seeking to cause an upset.
Match Details
Competition: UEFA Champions League, 3rd Qualifying Round (2nd Leg)
Location: Baku, Azerbaijan
Stadium: Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium
Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Kick-off Time: 12:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM BST / 6:00 PM CEST
Referee: Danny Makkelie (Netherlands)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
The recent head-to-head record between these two sides is limited, with only one previous encounter on record—the first leg of this tie. In that match, Qarabağ secured a 1-0 away victory, giving them a significant psychological and statistical advantage. Qarabağ’s recent form is impressive, with four wins and one loss in their last five matches. They have shown defensive solidity, keeping three clean sheets in that period. Shkëndija’s form has been more mixed, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five outings. The pressure of needing to score away from home against a defensively sound opponent will be a major factor in this second leg.
Qarabağ:
Qarabağ enters the match in excellent form, having successfully navigated the early stages of the Champions League qualifiers. Their 1-0 away win against Shkëndija in the first leg showcased their tactical maturity. The team has been a dominant force at home in European competitions, and their players are well-versed in the high-stakes environment. Key players for the team include Abdellah Zoubir, the influential winger, and the defensive partnership of Badavi and Abbas Huseynov, who provide stability at the back. Qarabağ will likely stick to their structured 4-2-3-1 formation, looking to control the midfield and use their wide players to exploit spaces.
August 5, 2025: Shkëndija 0–1 Qarabağ (Champions League)
July 30, 2025: Qarabağ 1–0 Shelbourne (Champions League)
July 23, 2025: Shelbourne 0–3 Qarabağ (Champions League)
Skendija 79:
Skendija 79 comes into this match with a mountain to climb. The 1-0 home defeat in the first leg was a setback, but their recent form in their domestic league and their upset win over FCSB in the previous round show they are capable of surprising opponents. They will need to show more attacking intent and find a way to break down Qarabağ’s disciplined defense. Key players for Skendija include Liridon Latifi, who will be a crucial outlet in attack, and goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye, who may be called upon to make key saves. They are expected to line up in a similar 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to clog the midfield and hit Qarabağ on the break.
August 8, 2025: Shkupi 1–5 Shkëndija (Macedonian First League)
August 5, 2025: Shkëndija 0–1 Qarabağ (Champions League)
July 30, 2025: Shkëndija 2–1 FCSB (Champions League)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
This match is expected to be a tense affair. Qarabağ will aim to be patient, not taking unnecessary risks and relying on their solid defensive structure. Their goal will be to control possession and wait for opportunities to capitalize on any mistakes from the visitors. Skendija must be proactive from the first whistle. Their tactical focus will likely be on a high-pressing game to force errors and create chances. The key battleground will be in the midfield, where Qarabağ’s control will be tested by Skendija’s urgency. If Shkëndija can find an early goal, the tie could be wide open. Otherwise, Qarabağ is in a strong position to see out the victory.
How to Watch Qarabağ vs. Skendija 79 on TV, Live Stream
CountryTV/Live StreamUnited KingdomTNT SportsUnited StatesParamount+, TUDNAzerbaijanCBC SportNorth MacedoniaArena Sport
For viewers in the United States, the match will be broadcast on Paramount+ and TUDN. In the United Kingdom, you can catch the action on TNT Sports. For viewers in Azerbaijan, the match will be live on CBC Sport, while in North Macedonia, it will be available on Arena Sport. For all other regions, broadcasting information can vary, so it’s best to check official UEFA or local sports broadcasting websites for the most up-to-date information on how to watch the match live.
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