On 10 December, H.E. Mr. Mammad Ahmadzada, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, hosted an informal viewing event for the UEFA Champions League match between Qarabağ FK and AFC Ajax. The gathering took place at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague and brought together a diverse and enthusiastic audience.
From as early as 6 p.m., ambassadors, diplomats, members of the Azerbaijani community, Dutch business leaders, and friends and supporters of Ajax began arriving—many coming directly from professional engagements and other diplomatic events. The atmosphere quickly became animated as guests filled the hall, forming a convivial mix of supporters from both sides.
Ambassador Ahmadzada warmly welcomed everyone and encouraged guests to feel entirely free to cheer for their preferred team. This set the tone for an evening marked by genuine enjoyment, embodying the spirit of sports diplomacy at its best.
The match itself proved as exciting as the ambiance in the room. Qarabağ opened the scoring early and regained the lead shortly after halftime, showcasing the skill that has made the team a source of national pride.
Match Highlights:
• Qarabağ took an early lead through Camilo Durán (10′).
• Kasper Dolberg equalised just before half-time (39′), scoring his first open-play Champions League goal of the season.
• Matheus Silva restored Qarabağ’s lead early in the second half (47′).
• Ajax mounted a dramatic comeback in the final 15 minutes with goals from:
– Oscar Gloukh (79′)
– Anton Gaaei (82′)
– Oscar Gloukh (90′) sealing the 4–2 victory.
Ajax’s win marked their first Champions League victory of the 2025–26 campaign, making the evening’s match all the more memorable for Dutch supporters. Despite the result, Azerbaijani attendees applauded their team’s strong performance, while Ajax fans celebrated a decisive group-stage win. The shared excitement, suspense, and mutual respect highlighted how football can unite people in a single collective experience.
Before kick-off, Ambassador Ahmadzada addressed the audience, expressing gratitude and emphasizing the significance of Qarabağ for Azerbaijan:
“Thank you very much for coming and for sharing our joy and excitement. Qarabağ holds a special place in the hearts of all Azerbaijanis. Founded in 1951, the club has become not only one of the most successful sports teams of our country, but also a symbol of resilience, unity, and national pride. Despite the challenges faced over the past 30 years, Qarabağ has continued to represent Azerbaijan on the international stage with dignity and determination.
Tonight is also a celebration of friendship between Azerbaijan and the Netherlands. We believe that sport brings nations closer together, and we hope that this match will further strengthen the ties between our two countries. I know we have many Ajax fans among us, so please do not hesitate to cheer, celebrate, and express your excitement. This evening is for everyone to enjoy together.”
The evening concluded in a friendly and relaxed mood, with guests exchanging impressions about the match while enjoying the hospitality of the Azerbaijani Embassy. It was a memorable event that strengthened diplomatic ties, and brought together communities through one of the world’s most universal passions: football.
