The UEFA Nations League 2024-2025 saw an intriguing clash between Slovakia and Azerbaijan in League C, Group C1. Held at the Košická Futbalová Aréna in Košice, Slovakia aimed to make a strong statement with a solid victory over Azerbaijan, while the visitors sought to make a mark in the group. With the stadium packed, Slovakia delivered a clinical performance to secure a 2-0 win, pushing their campaign forward.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Head-to-Head
Heading into this match, both teams had differing records in the UEFA Nations League 2024-2025. Slovakia, known for their sturdy defense and disciplined approach, sought to extend their winning run, whereas Azerbaijan was keen to secure points in what was already shaping up to be a competitive group. In their last few encounters, Slovakia often had the upper hand, and the outcome this time followed a similar narrative.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Lineups with Substitutes
Here is the actual lineups of Slovakia vs Azerbaijan on Sep 8, 2024.
Slovakia (Coach: Francesco Calzona)
- GK: Martin Dúbravka
- Defenders: Obert, Gyömbér, Škriniar (C), Hancko
- Midfielders: Suslov, Duda, Kucka, Lobotka, Haraslín
- Forward: David Strelec
Substitutes:
- Samuel Kozlovský (for Dávid Hancko, 90’+3)
- Róbert Boženík (for David Strelec, 84′)
- Ľubomír Tupta (for Lukáš Haraslín, 84′)
- Dávid Ďuriš (for Tomáš Suslov, 71′)
- László Bénes (for Ondrej Duda, 71′)
Azerbaijan (Coach: Fernando Santos)
- GK: Dzhenetov
- Defenders: Seydiyev, Jafarguliyev, B. Hüseynov, R. Mammadov
- Midfielders: Jamalov (C), T. Bayramov, Isaev, Mustafaiev, Kökcü
- Forward: Dadaşov
Substitutes:
- Abbas Hüseynov (for Amin Seydiyev, 37′)
- Ramil Sheydaev (for Emil Mustafaiev, 46′)
- Jeyhun Nuriyev (for Ozan Kökcü, 46′)
- Shahriyar Aliyev (for Badavi Hüseynov, 70′)
- Joshgun Diniyev (for Elvin Jamalov, 78′)
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan First Half
Slovakia started the match with high intensity, dominating possession and creating early chances. In the 21st minute, a crucial moment came when Amin Seydiyev of Azerbaijan committed a foul on Slovakia’s Lukáš Haraslín in the box, resulting in a penalty. Ondrej Duda calmly converted from the spot in the 22nd minute, putting Slovakia ahead 1-0.
Just four minutes later, Slovakia doubled their lead. David Strelec received a well-timed assist from Dávid Hancko, and with a clinical finish, made it 2-0. Azerbaijan struggled to break through Slovakia’s defense, and despite some attacking efforts, they failed to find the back of the net. The half ended 2-0 in favor of the hosts.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Second Half
The second half saw a series of tactical substitutions as Azerbaijan pushed for a comeback. Despite Azerbaijan’s efforts to get back into the game, Slovakia remained composed and disciplined. They controlled the midfield, with Lobotka and Kucka making key interceptions and launching counter-attacks.
Azerbaijan’s best chance came in the 61st minute when B. Hüseynov had his shot blocked by Obert, but they couldn’t capitalize on the few chances they created. Slovakia’s defense, led by captain Milan Škriniar, was rock-solid, and Martin Dúbravka made several important saves to preserve the clean sheet.
In the dying minutes, Shahriyar Aliyev of Azerbaijan was shown a yellow card after a foul on Boženík. Slovakia managed to see out the game comfortably, securing a 2-0 win.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Stats
Here is the Slovakia vs Azerbaijan stats today (Sep 8, 2024)
- Goals: Slovakia 2 (Duda 22′ (P), Strelec 26′), Azerbaijan 0
- Possession: Slovakia 58%, Azerbaijan 42%
- Shots on Target: Slovakia 6, Azerbaijan 3
- Fouls: Slovakia 13, Azerbaijan 17
- Yellow Cards: Slovakia 0, Azerbaijan 3 (Seydiyev, Jafarguliyev, S. Aliyev)
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Timeline
- 1st minute: The match begins at Košická Futbalová Aréna.
- 22nd minute: Penalty – Duda scores from the spot after Seydiyev’s foul on Haraslín (1-0).
- 26th minute: Goal – Strelec finishes off a precise assist from Hancko to double Slovakia’s lead (2-0).
- 37th minute: Azerbaijan makes their first substitution, bringing on Abbas Hüseynov for Amin Seydiyev.
- Half-Time: Slovakia leads 2-0.
- 46th minute: Azerbaijan makes two substitutions, introducing Sheydaev and Nuriyev.
- 61st minute: B. Hüseynov’s shot is blocked by Obert.
- 70th minute: Slovakia brings on Bénes and Ďuriš to freshen up the midfield.
- 90’+3 minute: Full-Time – Slovakia secures a 2-0 victory.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Match Impact
Slovakia’s victory in this UEFA Nations League 2024-2025 match significantly boosted their standing in Group C1. With three crucial points, they move closer to securing promotion to League B, while Azerbaijan remains at the bottom of the group, struggling to find form. Slovakia’s solid defense and efficient attack have made them a formidable force in this group, giving them the edge in the race for top spot.
Slovakia vs Azerbaijan Man of the Match
Ondrej Duda earns the Man of the Match award for his outstanding performance. His composure to score the opening penalty and his overall control of the midfield play were crucial to Slovakia’s victory.
Slovakia’s clinical 2-0 win over Azerbaijan at Košická Futbalová Aréna was a testament to their tactical discipline and quality in front of goal. With this victory, they strengthen their chances in the UEFA Nations League 2024-2025, while Azerbaijan will need to regroup and address their weaknesses as the competition progresses.
