Credits: IMAGO / Sally Rawlins Every Second Media

Qarabag Stun Chelsea with Heroic 2-2 Draw in Champions League Thriller

Credits: IMAGO / Sally Rawlins Every Second Media

Chelsea endured a frustrating night in Baku as Qarabag FK held the Premier League giants to a stunning 2-2 draw in the Champions League. The result certainly delayed Chelsea’s bid for early qualification to the knockout stages. It also showed that the Azerbaijani team are in the tournament to fight.

It was supposed to be a routine evening for Enzo Maresca’s side. They took an early lead through Brazilian prodigy Estevao. His sharp finish after linking up with fellow Brazilian Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos put the visitors in front.

It ends level in Baku. #CFC | #UCL pic.twitter.com/7ICeEyLSDx
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) November 5, 2025

However, the underdogs of the clash had other ideas. Backed by a packed and passionate Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, Qarabag refused to be overwhelmed. Winger Leandro Andrade capitalised on defensive hesitancy from Chelsea’s backline.

He volleyed home the equaliser, before Marko Jankovic calmly slotted in a penalty following Jorrel Hato’s handball. The hosts were once thrashed 10-0 on aggregate by Chelsea back in 2017. In a dramatic turn of events the same team went into halftime deservedly leading 2-1.

Also read: Ousmane Dembele Injury Update: Injured Again, How Long Will PSG Be Without Their Ace This Time?

Alejandro Garnacho Rescues Chelsea

Needing inspiration, Maresca turned to his bench and introduced Alejandro Garnacho, Enzo Fernandez, and Liam Delap at the break. The changes injected life into the visitors. Within seven minutes into the second half, Garnacho found the equaliser. The Argentine forward latched onto Delap’s long ball.

He steadied himself before sending a low strike into the corner past Mateusz Kochalski. Chelsea pushed for a late winner, with Garnacho and Estevao both going close, but Qarabag stood firm. The hosts nearly grabbed all three points in stoppage time when substitute Nariman Akhundzade fired narrowly wide.

Also Read: Achraf Hakimi Injury Update: How Long Will PSG Be Without Their Star Defender?

A Night to Remember for Qarabag FK

For Qarabag, this result marks a historic moment. It’s their first-ever point against English opposition in the Champions League. Chelsea, meanwhile, were left ruing missed chances and defensive lapses. With seven points from four games, their qualification path remains open.

However, Maresca’s heavy squad rotation and reliance on youth may face renewed scrutiny after the draw. As the final whistle blew, it was a first time witnessing such scenes for all the fans present. But for Chelsea, they will travel back home hoping to bounce back against Wolves in the weekend.

Champions League

Chelsea

Qarabag FK

Qarabag FK vs Chelsea

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.