After failing to cut the Champions League spot last month, Neftchi Baku begins their search third qualifying round of the Europa League against HJK Helsinki. The match schedules for Tuesday at the Bakcell Arena with kickoff at 8 pm.
The home side got dumped off the Champions League spot against Olympiacos, whereas HJK Helsinki fell short of a narrow aggregate loss to Malmo. Therefore, both sides battle it out for a spot in the playoff round.
HJK dreams of making a third qualifying round got off to a surprising start following a 7-1 aggregate win over Buducnost Podgorica. Moreover, the Finns side failed to go further than the third stage of Europe’s top-tier competition. However, dreams were cut short after a second-leg defeat to Malmo.
A major shining light at the camp is 29-year-old Riski, who left out of the Finland’s Euros squad. In addition, the Finn talisman shipped in five goals in four Champions League qualifying games.
Meanwhile, their opponents boast of a wide scope of talents compared to the Helsinki-based outfit. Coach Samir Abbasov has a selection dilemma with a crop of talents rising at the camp.
The last time the Azeri made an appearance on the continental stage was back in 2012. Despite finishing bottom, it was a memorable journey while sharing points with Inter Milan.
Neftchi Baku vs HJK Helsinski Head to Head
Both sides are yet to face each other, and this marks their first encounter. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Neftchi Baku 0-1 Olympiacos
- Olympiacos 1-0 Neftchi Baku
- Neftchi Baku 2-1 Dinamo Tbilisi
- Dinamo Tbilisi 1-2 Neftchi Baku
- Spartak Moscow 1-2 Neftchi Baku
Away
- HJK 0-0 SJK Seinajoki
- HJK 2-2 Malmo FF
- Helsinski 2-0 FC Haka
- Malmo 2-1 HJK
- AC Oulu 2-1 HJK
Neftchi Baku Team News
There remain injury contentions over the availability of Namiq Alasgarov after coming off the pitch injured in the first leg. However, Mert Celik is back in contention after serving a suspension. Also, Omar Buludov might have to settle in defense.
HJK Helsinski Team News
Confirmed injury absentees at the camp include Kevin Kouassivi-Benissan and Santeri Vaananen. Another long-term injury at the camp includes defender Igor Cukovic. The attacking line will be lead by loanee Atomu Tanaka and Roope Riski.
Prediction and Odds
We expect the home side to show their defensive unit on their home turf for a return fixture next week.
- Home Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- Riski to Score
