Sabah FC Makes History as Youngest Club to Reach UEFA Champions League League Phase

On August 25, 2026, Sabah FC, a club from Azerbaijan founded in September 2017, achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the UEFA Champions League league phase. In the second leg of the play-off round, Sabah defeated Hapoel Be'er Sheva of Israel 3-2 at home, forcing extra time after a 4-4 aggregate score. Sabah ultimately secured a 5-2 victory in the match, winning 6-4 on aggregate.

At less than nine years old, Sabah has set a new record as the youngest club to reach the competition's league phase, surpassing the previous record held by Russia's FC Krasnodar. According to Khaosod Online Thailand, this achievement marks the first time the club has reached this stage of the tournament.

For residents and travelers in Azerbaijan, this success elevates the profile of local football on the international stage, potentially increasing interest in domestic matches and sports tourism. While the club has confirmed its place in the upcoming league phase, the specific opponents they will face and the exact schedule for these high-profile matches remain to be confirmed by UEFA. Fans of the sport should monitor official UEFA announcements for upcoming fixture details.