By Azerbaijan.US Sport Desk
Azerbaijan’s national team has touched down in Reykjavík for a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier that could set the tone for their campaign.
The squad departed Baku on Wednesday morning, flying out of Heydar Aliyev International Airport, and will stage their final training session on Thursday night under the floodlights at the Laugardalsvöllur Stadium — the same venue that will host Friday’s clash. Kick-off is at 22:45 Baku time.
It’s a daunting assignment. Group D features heavyweights France, a resurgent Ukraine, and a physically robust Iceland. With only the group winners guaranteed a place in the finals and runners-up chasing playoffs, the margins are razor-thin.
Yet optimism remains. The expanded 48-team World Cup gives Europe three additional qualification slots, and Azerbaijan’s camp believes that the door — however narrow — is open. “We respect Iceland, but we’ve come here for points, not photographs,” one federation source said before boarding the flight.
Victory in Reykjavík would be a statement result for a side long considered outsiders on the continental stage. It would also set up a high-stakes home fixture against Ukraine in Baku on September 9, when the roar of the local crowd could push the team further into contention.
For now, all eyes are on Iceland’s capital, where Azerbaijan hopes to turn belief into momentum.
Player to Watch: Emin Mahmudov
Position: Midfielder & Captain
Club: Neftçi Baku
Why He Stands Out: With 14 international goals, he’s Azerbaijan’s joint top scorer Mahmudov combines vision, experience, and leadership—vital qualities for guiding the national side through high-pressure qualifiers. In 2025, he continued to anchor the team’s midfield and act as the heartbeat of their play. Plus, his recognition as Azerbaijani Footballer of the Year in 2021 and 2022 underscores his status as the undisputed engine of the squad.
