The central match of the XXI round of the Misli Premier League between Azerbaijan's two football giants, "Neftchi" and "Garabagh", has been postponed. Originally scheduled for February 21, the high-stakes encounter has been moved to a later date to accommodate international competition schedules.
Operative Information Center-OMM, citing the Professional Football League (PFL), reports that the decision was made following a formal request from the Aghdam-based club and the subsequent agreement of the "Neftchi" management. The PFL officially sanctioned the rescheduling after both clubs reached a mutual understanding regarding the fixture change.
The request from the Garabagh representative stems from the club's upcoming UEFA Champions League play-off matches against England's "Newcastle". As a key representative of Azerbaijan in European competitions, the club aims to focus its resources on preparing for the prestigious tournament. The PFL has yet to announce the new date for the "Neftchi" - "Garabagh" duel, noting that the final schedule will be determined based on both clubs' domestic calendars and the results of the Champions League matches. This fixture, often referred to as the "Azerbaijan Derby," remains the most anticipated event in the national football league, historically drawing the largest television and stadium audiences in the country.