Marcel Sabitzer secured Austria’s third consecutive qualification for the UEFA European Championships with a 1-0 victory over Azerbaijan, marking their first consecutive away wins since 2020.
Despite the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium being chosen in the hope of attracting more fans, the sea of empty seats reflected Azerbaijan’s struggles, as they haven’t won a home UEFA European Championship Qualifier (ECQ) since 2015.
Austria dominated early, with Konrad Laimer’s attempted chip saved by goalkeeper Shakhruddin Magomedaliyev. Saša Kalajdžić posed a constant threat, setting up Xaver Schlager for a close-range opportunity that narrowly missed. Azerbaijan’s best chance came with Toral Bayramov’s cross, but Ramil Sheydayev’s header went off target.
In the second half, Ralf Rangnick’s substitution, Marcel Sabitzer, made an immediate impact. His free-kick led to a penalty, converted by Sabitzer himself. Despite Austria’s continued pressure, Azerbaijan had a chance with Bayramov, who hit the outside of the post.
The match ended in a feisty manner, with Guido Burgstaller receiving a second yellow card. Nonetheless, it was a triumphant evening for Austria, relieving pressure on Rangnick ahead of the upcoming match with Estonia. Azerbaijan’s final ECQ fixtures are now inconsequential, as they failed to achieve the three-goal win needed for a chance at their first major tournament appearance.