Qarabağ vs Chelsea: Comparing 2017 lineups with today’s new generation

Qarabağ vs Chelsea: Comparing 2017 Lineups with Today’s New Generation

The 2017–2018 UEFA Champions League was more than a football story; it marked a new chapter in Azerbaijani sports history. When Qarabağ FK faced Chelsea FC for the first time, few anticipated that the Azerbaijani side — the country’s first club to reach the group stage — would challenge the English giants with such resolve.

“For Qarabağ, it symbolized the rise of Azerbaijani football onto the European stage.”

For Chelsea, those group stage encounters seemed routine, yet they revealed to the London club the fierce and enduring spirit of Baku. Chelsea triumphed in both matches — 6–0 in London and 4–0 in Baku — demonstrating the power and precision of Antonio Conte’s lineup, which featured Eden Hazard, Cesc Fàbregas, Willian, and Álvaro Morata.

Under coach Gurban Gurbanov, Qarabağ focused on tight defense and unwavering commitment. Their approach, built on discipline and heart, later became the team’s cornerstone in European competitions.

From Underdogs to Contenders

Now, in November 2025, Qarabağ stands as a far more experienced and efficient team. The club has evolved into a consistent European contender, known for tactical maturity, compact defending, and quick transitions that define its modern style.

Legacy and Evolution

The transformation from the ambitious 2017 lineup to the refined 2025 generation reflects more than just talent growth — it is the story of a club that learned, adapted, and earned its place among Europe’s respected sides.

Author’s Summary: A look at how Qarabağ’s journey from 2017 to 2025 turned a historic debut into a story of strategic growth and lasting European presence.

Latest news from Azerbaijan — 2025-11-05