Qarabağ are one of the six clubs who have yet to earn a point in the first two rounds of the Europa League group stage. Conversely, Ajax have conceded only one goal and are currently positioned for direct qualification to the playoffs. The Azerbaijani side will find it extremely challenging to turn the tide in the third round.
Their initial 3:0 loss leaves little room for doubt—despite having a numerical advantage for most of the match, facing Tottenham Hotspur is never easy, as they can remain formidable even with nine men. In the subsequent home defeat to Malmö, Qarabağ only have themselves to blame. They took the lead but failed to capitalise on it, waking up only in the last quarter of the game. Their lone shot on target from 12 attempts speaks volumes.
The Dutch team eased up a bit in Prague, ceding possession to their opponents and rarely pushing forward. What was that—six shots, two on target for the entire match against Slavia Prague? Had Ajax exerted a bit more effort, they surely would have scored. Their efforts amounted to 1.51 xG, while the hosts’ 19 attempts (8 on target) resulted in just 1.16 xG and one goal. In their first-round encounter with Beşiktaş, Ajax found the net four times from 17 attempts (9 on target).
If Ajax players avoid a repeat of their lethargy, they should comfortably secure three points in Baku and head off to prepare for their clash with Willem II. There's no need to delve into any historical meetings (none exist anyway). Qarabağ can be dangerous, but they’re clearly not in their best form right now.
