Europa League

Qarabağ

23 Jul 2026 17:00

CSKA Sofia

Prediction:

Qarabağ to win 1.65

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QarabağDraw CSKA Sofia

Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia Predictions, Picks & Odds – 23/07/2026

Europa League · 2nd Qualifying Round

Our prediction

1: Qarabağ to win

1.65 on Betano · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 21 Jul 2026 at 22:49 · Odds are subject to change

Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia Preview

Qarabağ arrive at the Bakı Olimpiya Stadionu in ruthless European form, having dismantled Vestri 6-0 on aggregate in the first qualifying round without conceding a single goal. Coach Gurban Gurbanov has built a side well versed in continental competition, with past Champions League group stage appearances underlining their pedigree. Elvin Jafarguliyev is back in the fold following transfer speculation, though midfielder Joni Montiel's absence from the previous squad remains unexplained beyond "specific reasons."

CSKA Sofia return to European football after a two-year hiatus, and their 5-3 aggregate victory over Derry City showed both promise and vulnerability. Sporting director Boyko Velichkov was openly critical of the first-leg performance, feeling a 3-2 win flattered their opponents. Off-pitch issues compound their challenges: crowd disturbances in that tie prompted UEFA disciplinary proceedings, while goalkeeper Fedor Lapoukhov and midfielder Max Ebong were denied visas for the away leg, raising potential squad availability concerns.

Qarabağ's home win at 1.65 stands as the strongest selection here. The Azerbaijani side scored six goals across two legs against Vestri while keeping a clean sheet in both matches. That defensive solidity, combined with coach Gurbanov's deep European experience, gives them a clear edge in this first leg at the Bakı Olimpiya Stadionu.

CSKA Sofia showed attacking intent with five goals against Derry City, but they also conceded three. Their 5-3 aggregate win exposed defensive vulnerabilities that Qarabağ will look to exploit. Visa issues affecting goalkeeper Lapoukhov and midfielder Ebong in the previous round raise further squad availability concerns heading into Baku.

The off-field chaos surrounding CSKA Sofia adds another layer of disruption. UEFA disciplinary proceedings following crowd disturbances in their last qualifier could weigh on the Bulgarian side's focus and preparation. Qarabağ's pedigree in European competition, including past Champions League group stage appearances, makes the home win the clear value pick at 1.65.

Questo articolo è a scopo informativo e non costituisce una raccomandazione di gioco.

Trends to Know about Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia

• Qarabağ scored six, conceded zero against Vestri
• CSKA Sofia conceded three to Derry City
• CSKA Sofia face visa issues for key players

Both lineups carry a speculated tag, drawn from recent match reports rather than official confirmation, so some late changes remain possible on either side. The projected 4-3-3 versus 4-2-3-1 shape sets up an interesting midfield battle, with Qarabağ looking to use width and press high on home turf.

Zoubir is the creative focal point in Qarabağ's front three, while CSKA Sofia will likely ask Brahimi to link play between the lines and unlock the Azerbaijani defense. The Bulgarians' double pivot should give them some structural solidity, but Qarabağ's home crowd advantage could prove decisive.

How to Watch Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia Match?

What time is Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia?

This Europa League second qualifying round clash kicks off on 23 July 2026 at the Bakı Olimpiya Stadionu.

Where is Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia being played?

This fixture takes place at the Bakı Olimpiya Stadionu in Baku, Azerbaijan.

How Can I Watch Qarabağ vs CSKA Sofia on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings and the UEFA website for broadcast details in your region.