In a stunning display of determination and skill, Sabah Baku has etched its name in the history of the UEFA Champions League by becoming the youngest club to qualify for the tournament's qualifying rounds. Established in 2017, the team has made significant strides in a short period, culminating in their latest achievement for the 2026/27 season.

Sabah Baku's journey to this historic milestone began with a dramatic playoff against Hapoel Be'er Sheva. After losing the first leg 1-2 in Israel, they faced a daunting task in the return match. With time running out and the score tied at 2-2, the team needed a miracle. In a nail-biting finish, Tellur Mutallimov scored a crucial header, bringing the score to 3-2 and forcing the match into extra time. Sabah continued to show resilience, scoring two more goals to secure a 5-2 victory, thus advancing to the qualifying rounds of the Champions League.

This remarkable feat is even more impressive considering that just five years ago, Sabah was competing in Azerbaijan's second division. Their rise has been meteoric; they finished fifth in their inaugural season and have since claimed their first national championship title. The emotional weight of their victory was palpable, with players like Tymoteusz Puchacz visibly moved as the final whistle blew.

Sabah Baku will now prepare to face some of Europe's most prestigious clubs, including giants like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. The qualifying rounds are set to take place from September 8, 2026, to January 27, 2027, with each team playing a total of eight matches. This season, 36 teams will compete in the qualifying rounds, maintaining the format used in the previous two seasons. The top eight teams will earn direct entry into the Round of 16, while teams ranked ninth to twenty-fourth will battle it out in playoffs for advancement.

As Sabah Baku steps into this new chapter, they not only celebrate their historic achievement but also prepare for the challenges ahead in the prestigious Champions League, a dream that seemed unimaginable just a few years ago.