In what promises to be an exhilarating start to their Europa League group-stage journey, Qarabag FK and Molde clash at the Azersun Arena in Azerbaijan this Thursday.
Match Preview
Qarabag FK is no stranger to the Europa League group stage, having navigated through qualifying rounds successfully.
After an initial attempt in Champions League qualifying, they seamlessly transitioned to Europa League, securing their spot after defeating Olimpija Ljubljana.
Now, they face Molde, Hacken, and Bayer Leverkusen in the group stage.
Molde, on the other hand, missed the Champions League main draw but found their footing in the Europa League.
Their memorable round of 16 performance in 2020-21 fuels their anticipation for this stage once again.
Team Form
Qarabag enters this fixture with a newfound winning momentum, breaking a three-game winless streak with a league victory over Sabah.
Their impressive home record, avoiding defeat in their last 12 UEFA competitions, sets a formidable stage for Molde.
Molde, bolstered by recent league victories, seeks to carry this momentum into the away fixture, having beaten Haugesund and Odd convincingly.
Team News
While Qarabag’s lineup remains unchanged, Molde grapples with potential doubts over key players.
Juninho’s prowess in Qarabag’s attack and Molde’s strategic adjustments will be key in this encounter.
Qarabag FK Possible Starting Lineup:
Ramazanov;
Bayramov, Mustafazada, Medina, Cafarquliyev;
Jankovic, Romao;
Andrade, Benzia, Zoubir;
Juninho
Molde Possible Starting Lineup:
Karlstrom;
Oyvann, Bjornbak, Hagelskjaer;
Lovik, Hestad, Kasa, Breivik, Haugen;
Kitolano, Eikrem
Match Prediction
Considering Molde’s struggles in away games during Champions League qualifying, we predict a 2-1 victory for Qarabag FK in this pulsating Europa League clash.