Match Report: UEFA Europa Conference League – First Qualifying Round

Zira FK 3–0 Torpedo Kutaisi

Zira FK put on an emphatic display in the UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round on 9 July 2026, sweeping aside Georgian visitors Torpedo Kutaisi 3–0 at the Dalga Arena in Baku. A dominant first‑half performance effectively settled the tie, leaving Torpedo with a mountain to climb in the second leg.

Match Overview

Both teams were making their European bows for the season, with Zira looking to capitalise on home advantage. The Azerbaijani side controlled proceedings from the start, pressing high and creating chances through quick combinations in the final third.

Key Moments

• 8th minute: Zira took an early lead. Midfielder Azer Aliyev collected a pass from Tural Akhundov, cut inside and unleashed a curling effort from 20 yards that beat the Torpedo keeper at the near post.
• 23rd minute: The hosts doubled their advantage. A corner was flicked on by defender Rashad Sadygov, and forward Rauf Hüseynli nodded in from close range.
• 37th minute: Zira made it three. A rapid counter‑attack saw Aliyev play a one‑two with Hüseynli before slotting his second of the night, a composed finish across goal.

Tactical Story

Zira FK employed a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation with emphasis on quick transitions. Torpedo Kutaisi struggled to cope with the intensity of Zira’s pressing and were often forced into long balls, which were comfortably dealt with by the Zira centre‑backs. The Georgian side improved after the break but rarely threatened Zira’s goal, as the hosts dropped deeper and protected their clean sheet.

Standout Players

• Azer Aliyev (Zira FK): Two goals and an assist; the midfield engine was at the heart of everything positive.
• Rauf Hüseynli (Zira FK): Scored one and created the third with intelligent movement.
• Rashad Sadygov (Zira FK): Solid defensively and involved in the second goal from a set piece.

Next Stage Implications

A 3–0 victory puts Zira FK in a commanding position ahead of the second leg in Georgia. Torpedo Kutaisi must now win by at least four goals in the return fixture to force extra time – a near‑impossible task given Zira’s form. The Azerbaijani side can start thinking about the next round with confidence.