The anticipation is building as Azerbaijan’s national football team gears up for a pivotal pair of matches in the European qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the official squad announced and preparations underway, all eyes are on the upcoming Group D clash against Ukraine, set to take place on October 13, 2025, at the historic Cracovia Stadium in Krakow, Poland. The match, which will kick off at 21:45 Kyiv time, marks a crucial juncture in Azerbaijan’s campaign as they aim to make their mark on the global stage.
Head coach Aykhan Abbasov, whose leadership and tactical acumen have been the subject of much discussion among football fans and pundits alike, has unveiled a 26-man squad that blends experience with promising new talent. The announcement, made by the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan and widely reported by sports outlets, underscores the team’s commitment to fielding the strongest possible lineup as they prepare to face both France and Ukraine in this international window.
Let’s take a closer look at the Azerbaijani squad selected for these decisive qualifiers. The goalkeeping trio features Shahruhdin Magomedaliyev of Karabakh, Rza Dzhafarov from Neftchi, and Aydin Bayramov representing Zira. These keepers bring a mix of domestic and international experience, with Magomedaliyev’s performances for Karabakh in European competitions drawing particular praise in recent seasons.
In defense, Abbasov has called up Jalal Guseynov, currently plying his trade at Arda Kardzhali in Bulgaria, and Anton Kryvotsyuk, who competes for Tejeon Hana Citizen in South Korea. They are joined by Elvin Dzhafarghuliyev, Bakhlul Mustafazadeh, and Abbas Guseynov—all from Karabakh—alongside Rahman Dashdamirov (Sabah), Elvin Badalov (Neftchi), Faik Gadjiev (Turan Tovuz), and Rahil Mamedov (Araz-Nakhchivan). This defensive unit is notable for its blend of domestic league standouts and players with valuable experience abroad, a balance that could prove vital against the attacking threats posed by Ukraine and France.
The midfield is packed with versatility and creativity. Sabukhi Abdulazadeh of Sumgayit leads a group that includes Anatoly Nuriyev and Abdullah Khaybullayev from Sabah, Emin Mahmudov and Murad Khachayev of Neftchi, as well as Kismet Aliyev, Jeyhun Nuriyev, and Ismail Ibrahimli—all from Zira. Toral Bayramov and Nariman Akhundzadeh, both representing Karabakh, round out the midfield contingent. These players are expected to control the tempo and provide the critical link between defense and attack, with Mahmudov’s vision and leadership being especially crucial in high-stakes encounters.
Up front, Azerbaijan’s attack will be spearheaded by Renat Dadashev, who currently plays for Motor Lublin in Poland, and Mahir Emreli, who represents Kaiserslautern in Germany’s competitive leagues. Musa Gurbanli (Karabakh) and Rustam Akhmedzadeh (Sumgayit) complete the forward line, offering a variety of options in both speed and finishing ability. Dadashev’s physical presence and Emreli’s knack for finding the net have been well documented, and fans will be eager to see how this duo fares against Ukraine’s formidable backline.
Coach Aykhan Abbasov’s selection reflects a deliberate strategy to balance youth and experience, a point he has emphasized in recent interviews. According to the official statement from the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan, "The head coach of the Azerbaijani national team Aykhan Abbasov announced the squad of players called up for the October European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup against France and Ukraine." This clear focus on continuity and development is seen as essential for Azerbaijan as they look to challenge more established footballing nations in Group D.
The stakes are high for Azerbaijan, who are seeking to make a breakthrough in World Cup qualification. The Group D fixture against Ukraine is particularly significant, not just for its immediate impact on the standings but also as a litmus test of the team’s progress under Abbasov’s stewardship. The match will be played at the Cracovia Stadium, named after Józef Piłsudski, a venue steeped in football history and sure to provide a vibrant atmosphere for this international showdown.
Ukraine, the hosts for this round, are themselves under pressure to deliver, with a talented squad and passionate fan base expecting nothing less than a strong performance on home soil. For Azerbaijan, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The team’s preparations have been intense, with training sessions focused on tactical discipline, quick transitions, and set-piece execution—areas where Abbasov believes his side can exploit weaknesses in their opponents.
Reflecting on the squad announcement, football analysts have pointed out the growing international presence of Azerbaijani players. With several squad members now playing in European and Asian leagues, the national team benefits from a broader range of playing styles and experiences. This diversity could be a game-changer in matches where adaptability and composure are required, especially against technically gifted sides like Ukraine and France.
The broader context of these qualifiers cannot be ignored. With the 2026 World Cup set to expand and offer more spots to European nations, the competition for qualification has become fiercer than ever. Azerbaijan’s football federation has invested heavily in youth development and infrastructure, hoping to capitalize on this expanded opportunity. The squad’s composition, featuring both seasoned veterans and emerging talents, is a testament to these long-term ambitions.
As the October 13 fixture approaches, Azerbaijani supporters are rallying behind their team, hopeful that this campaign will mark a turning point in their footballing history. Social media buzz and fan forums are abuzz with predictions, tactical debates, and messages of encouragement for the players. The sense of anticipation is palpable—not just in Baku or Krakow, but wherever Azerbaijani football fans are found.
While the match against Ukraine is the immediate focus, the squad’s readiness for the subsequent clash with France also looms large. Facing two high-caliber opponents in quick succession is a daunting task, but one that could define Azerbaijan’s World Cup journey. The outcome of these matches will hinge on execution, discipline, and perhaps a touch of magic from the team’s standout performers.
With the official squad now set and preparations in full swing, Azerbaijan’s national team stands on the brink of a defining moment. Whether they can rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the football world will be watching closely when the whistle blows in Krakow on October 13.