Pos #	Team	PTS	GP	W	D	L	GS - GC	G
1	FK Qarabag	80	33	25	5	3	80 - 19	61
2	Zira IK	70	34	22	4	8	57 - 26	31
3	Araz FK	55	33	14	13	6	33 - 26	7
4	PFK Turan Tovuz	49	34	12	13	9	40 - 39	1
5	Sabah	44	34	9	17	8	48 - 45	3
6	Neftchi Baku	40	34	9	13	12	36 - 48	-12
7	Shamakhi FK	36	34	9	9	16	32 - 44	-12
8	FK Sumqayit	30	33	8	6	19	27 - 50	-23
9	FK Kapaz	29	33	7	8	18	27 - 58	-31
10	Sabail FC	22	34	4	10	20	27 - 52	-25

Name

MPG

Leandro Andrade Leandro Andrade FK Qarabag FK Qarabag

Salifou Soumah Salifou Soumah Zira IK Zira IK

Davit Volkovi Davit Volkovi Zira IK Zira IK

Jesse Sekidika Jesse Sekidika Sabah Sabah

Joy-Lance Mickels Joy-Lance Mickels Sabah Sabah

Felipe Silva Correa dos Santos Felipe Silva Correa dos Santos Araz FK Araz FK

Raphael Utzig Raphael Utzig Zira IK Zira IK

Nariman Akhundzade Nariman Akhundzade FK Qarabag FK Qarabag

Philip Ozobic Philip Ozobic Neftchi Baku Neftchi Baku

Pavol Safranko Pavol Safranko Sabah Sabah

Azerbaijan Premier League Fixtures

Azerbaijan Premier League Results

FK Gabala Football Club, commonly referred to as Gabala, is a professional football club based in Gabala, Azerbaijan. Established in 1995, the club has rapidly grown into one of Azerbaijan’s most recognized football institutions. With a reputation for producing young talent and consistent performances domestically, Gabala has carved out a noteworthy role both in the Azerbaijan Premier League and in European competition.Gabala plays its home matches at the Gabala City Stadium, renowned for its scenic surroundings in the Gabala region. The team’s traditional colors are red and black, and Gabala’s badge is instantly recognizable amongst Azerbaijani football fans.Supporters of Gabala, known as “Qırmızı-qaralar” (The Red-Blacks), are passionate and loyal, following the club both home and away. While Gabala's greatest domestic rivals have often been Qarabağ FK and Neftçi Baku, their consistent presence in European competitions has also helped boost the club’s reputation beyond Azerbaijan. Throughout its history, Gabala has seen a number of notable players pass through its ranks, such as Filip Ozobić, Ruslan Qurbanov, Dodo, and Rafael Santos. Gabala has become especially respected within Azerbaijan for its youth academy and player development programs.Although major league titles have proven elusive, Gabala’s greatest club achievement came in the 2015–16 season when they reached the group stage of the UEFA Europa League, a rarity for Azerbaijani clubs. The club remains competitive in the Azerbaijan Premier League, the Azerbaijan Cup, and regularly vies for places in European competitions.With an ever-growing fanbase, solid organizational structure, and focus on both performance and youth, FK Gabala is a key figure in the development and progress of Azerbaijani football.

Team:	Gabala
Full name:	Gabala Idman Klubu (Gabala Sports Club)
Country:	Azerbaijan
Nickname:	Red-Blacks (Qırmızı-qaralar)
Founded:	1995
Colors:	Red and Black
Stadium:	Gabala City Stadium 4,500 Capacity
Address:	Stadion yolu 1, Gabala, AZ3600, Azerbaijan
Telephone:	(+994 24) 205 44 44
Fax:	(+994 24) 205 44 44
Website:	http://gabalafc.az/
E-mail:	[email protected]

History of FK Gabala

Founded

Gabala Sports Club was originally founded as Goy Gol in 1995 and relocated to Gabala in 2005, adopting its current name and identity. The club was created to bring professional football to the scenic Gabala region. Over time, with strong financial backing and organizational improvements, Gabala rapidly established itself as a stable force in the Azerbaijan Premier League.

After its move, Gabala reached the Azerbaijan Premier League in 2006–07 and has remained ever-present since. Steadily, the club grew in stature through local and foreign signings, improved youth development, and consistent performances. Gabala’s most notable achievement came in the 2015–16 season, when they became the first Azerbaijani club outside of Baku to qualify for the group stage of a European competition, reaching the UEFA Europa League group stage.

While a Premier League title is yet to be won, Gabala lifted their first Azerbaijan Cup in 2018–19, signaling their arrival amongst Azerbaijan’s elite. The club continues to target domestic success and regular European campaigns as part of its strategic ambitions.

Finances and Ownership

FK Gabala is owned and financially supported by Gilan Holding, a major Azerbaijani conglomerate with diverse interests ranging from construction to agriculture. This backing has enabled the club to invest in infrastructure, facilities, and the youth academy, underpinning Gabala’s competitiveness in both domestic and continental competitions.

Despite not possessing the same financial muscle as some Baku-based clubs, Gabala operates with a stable budget and maintains prudent financial policies. The club is also well-regarded for its transparent administration and its focus on sustainable development rather than expensive short-term fixes. This approach has helped Gabala avoid major financial crises and maintain consistent growth.

Gabala’s financial health has played an important role in establishing the club’s stable position in Azerbaijani football, offering long-term security and continued investments in sporting and community projects.

Popular culture

FK Gabala has built a unique club culture centered around its picturesque location and community spirit. The club enjoys a devoted fan base—the Red-Blacks—who are renowned for their passionate yet family-friendly support at Gabala City Stadium. Local traditions feature strongly in matchday experiences, with musical performances and regional food often on offer for visitors.

Gabala has also developed a remarkable youth academy in Azerbaijan, regularly producing players for both club and country. The club’s emphasis on youth development has made it especially popular with young fans and their families. Gabala is commonly associated with professionalism, integrity, and a strong relationship with its local community.

In popular culture, Gabala is regarded as a club that has helped decentralize Azerbaijani football, challenging the dominance of Baku-based clubs and inspiring fans from across Azerbaijan to dream bigger. European campaigns have further enhanced the club’s visibility and status on the continental stage.

Overall, Gabala’s blend of community engagement, scenic identity, and commitment to youth makes it one of Azerbaijan’s most distinctive football institutions.

Player

The club has been home to numerous outstanding and influential players from Azerbaijan and abroad. Gabala’s youth system regularly generates talented players who either become staples of the team or continue their careers at larger clubs domestically and in Europe.

Domestically, players such as Ruslan Abışov, Javid Huseynov, and Kamran Agayev have made significant impacts at the club. The side has also attracted international stars including Dodo (Brazil), Filip Ozobić (Croatia), and Ricardinho (Brazil), each contributing to Gabala's growth in stature and competitiveness.

The current Gabala team combines experienced veterans and emerging prospects, with a strategy of promoting home-grown talent bolstered by smart international signings. Gabala’s focus on youth development has set them apart among Azerbaijani clubs, while their competitive squad consistently challenges for honors in league and cup.

In recent years, Gabala has not only produced national team players but also developed several talents who later transferred to European clubs, continuing the club’s tradition of nurturing talent for both club and country.

Famous Players

Dodo: The Brazilian midfielder was a pivotal figure during Gabala’s rise and helped the club achieve its first-ever European group stage. His creativity and attacking prowess were notable during his tenure.
Filip Ozobić: The Croatian international became one of Azerbaijan’s finest attacking midfielders during his time at Gabala, consistently contributing goals and assists.
Ruslan Qurbanov: A crucial Azerbaijani striker, Qurbanov led Gabala’s attack in both domestic and European matches, making valuable contributions through key goals and leadership on the field.
Rafael Santos: The Brazilian defender was integral to Gabala’s defensive line, providing stability and quality during one of the club’s most successful periods, especially in European competition.
Javid Huseynov: Known for his leadership, hardworking midfield play, and loyalty to the club, Huseynov served as a longtime captain and remains a well-loved figure at Gabala.
Kamran Agayev: The Azerbaijani goalkeeper is renowned for his performances at Gabala, especially in key domestic and continental matches.

These players are just a few of those who have contributed to Gabala’s rapid rise and reputation in Azerbaijani and European football.

Top goalscorers of All time

Rank	Player	Position	Goals	Appearances	Goals/match
1	Filip Ozobić	MF/FW	40	90	0.44
2	Bagaliy Dabo	FW	36	67	0.54
3	Dodo	MF	35	104	0.34
4	Ruslan Qurbanov	FW	32	97	0.33
5	Javid Huseynov	MF	22	158	0.14
6	Rafael Santos	DF	17	123	0.14
7	Ricardinho	MF/FW	16	59	0.27
8	Kamran Agayev	GK	1	100	0.01

Typical Squad

Gabala FK typically lines up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation. The current core squad consists of a balanced mix of experience and promising youth. Key positions are filled by long-term club leaders and exciting newcomers.

Goalkeeper

Gabala’s first-choice keeper is usually a blend of experienced local talent or international signings. Notable recent keepers include Kamran Agayev and Andrey Popovich, both known for their reliability and leadership at the back.

Defender

Gabala’s defense regularly features both domestic and international players, providing stability and occasional attacking support. Traditional key defenders have been Rafael Santos and Azerbaijan internationals such as Elvin Camalov.

Midfielder

The midfield remains Gabala’s creative hub, with current and former talents like Javid Huseynov, Ehtiram Shahverdiyev, and Dodo, who have orchestrated play and provided drive forward.

Forward

Gabala’s attack has historically featured dynamic forwards like Ruslan Qurbanov, Filip Ozobić, and Bagaliy Dabo, combining pace with finishing ability and creativity.

This squad composition, with local and international flair, ensures Gabala’s continued challenge for honors in every competition they enter.

2024/25 Squad Season

The 2024–25 season reflects Gabala’s ongoing efforts to compete at the top of Azerbaijani domestic football and to establish themselves on the European stage. The following is an indicative list of squad members based on recent seasons and projected lineups. Please note, actual squad for 2024/25 may be subject to official confirmation.

Goalkeeper
Updating...	1	Andrey Popovich	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	17/04/1992
Updating...	12	Rahid Amirguliyev	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	01/09/1989
Defender
Updating...	4	Elvin Camalov	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	05/02/1995
Updating...	23	Rafael Santos	Brazil	Brazil	11/01/1989
Updating...	15	Ehtiram Shahverdiyev	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	15/10/1995
Midfielder
Updating...	8	Javid Huseynov (C)	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	09/03/1988
Updating...	10	Dodo	Brazil	Brazil	19/06/1987
Updating...	20	Ehtibar Qurbanov	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	18/07/1996
Forward
Updating...	11	Ruslan Qurbanov	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	12/08/1991
Updating...	7	Bagaliy Dabo	France	France	10/01/1988
Updating...	9	Filip Ozobić	Croatia	Croatia	08/09/1991
Manager
Updating...		Elmar Bakhshiyev	Azerbaijan	Azerbaijan	03/08/1980
Ass. Manager
Updating...		Updating...	Updating...	Updating...	Updating...

Coach

Gabala FK, since its establishment, has worked under the guidance of several prominent coaches who have contributed to its rise in Azerbaijani football. The club's history includes both local and international managers, and under their leadership, Gabala FK has enjoyed some of its most successful moments, including historic domestic cup wins and strong performances in European competitions.

Roman Hryhorchuk: Appointed in 2015, Hryhorchuk is widely regarded as Gabala's most successful coach. Under his management, Gabala FK reached the Azerbaijan Cup finals three times, won the cup in 2018–19, and, most notably, qualified for the group stage of the UEFA Europa League for two consecutive seasons (2015–16, 2016–17).
Elmar Bakhshiyev: As a former player turned coach, Bakhshiyev led Gabala to another Azerbaijan Cup victory in the 2022–23 season, solidifying the club’s competitive presence domestically.
Yuri Semin: An experienced Russian coach who led Gabala in 2013–2014. Although he did not win major silverware, his presence elevated the club’s profile and professional standards.
Sanan Gurbanov: Guided Gabala to a third-place finish in the Azerbaijan Premier League and notable progress in the Azerbaijan Cup during his tenure.

Through the contributions of these and other coaches, Gabala FK has built a competitive legacy in Azerbaijani football, marked by domestic successes and memorable nights in European competitions.

Period	Manager	Country	born
10/12/2019 – present	Elmar Bakhshiyev	Azerbaijan	06/08/1980
20/09/2018 – 06/12/2019	Sanan Gurbanov	Azerbaijan	22/08/1980
06/06/2015 – 20/09/2018	Roman Hryhorchuk	Ukraine	22/03/1965
02/06/2014 – 31/05/2015	Dorian Baucina (caretaker)	Croatia	30/03/1976
01/06/2013 – 01/06/2014	Yuri Semin	Russia	11/05/1947
20/11/2011 – 21/05/2013	Fuat Çapa	Turkey	15/08/1968
03/06/2011 – 19/11/2011	Ramiz Mammadov	Azerbaijan	21/08/1968
10/09/2010 – 01/06/2011	Tony Adams	England	10/10/1966
26/05/2009 – 09/09/2010	Igor Ponomaryov	Azerbaijan	24/02/1960
16/12/2008 – 25/05/2009	Kanan Karimov	Azerbaijan	05/08/1976
01/07/2006 – 15/12/2008	Bahman Hasanov	Azerbaijan	06/12/1969
01/07/2005 – 30/06/2006	Agil Mammadov	Azerbaijan	01/04/1972
2004 – 2005	Updating...	Updating...	Updating...
Summer 2005 (first season in Premier League)	Boyukaga Hajiyev	Azerbaijan	01/04/1958

Crests and Colors

Football Club Gabala, commonly known as Gabala FK, is an Azerbaijani professional football club based in the city of Qabala. Since its foundation in 2005, Gabala has established a distinctive identity reflected through its crest and colors.

The club's original crest featured a traditional shield design with the name "Qəbələ" (the Azerbaijani spelling of Gabala) and a stylized depiction of the Tufandag mountains, symbolizing the club's connection to its region. Over the years, while the club logo underwent minor modernizations, it has consistently retained the mountainous emblem and the red-and-black color palette. The most recent crest is a streamlined shield with a bold mountain motif and a football at the base, emphasizing Gabala's competitive spirit and regional pride.

Gabala's traditional colors are red and black. Red signifies energy and ambition, while black symbolizes strength and resilience. Occasionally, white is used as an accent or for away kits. The club's kit designs have evolved in terms of style and sponsors but have always highlighted the core red-black color scheme, which has become synonymous with Gabala's brand on and off the field.

In summary, Gabala FK's crest and colors are prominent symbols of the club's identity, representing both its local heritage and its aspirations in Azerbaijani and European football.

Fan Club

Gabala FK enjoys the support of a growing and passionate fan base. The largest and most recognized fan group is "Red Black Army," named after the team's iconic colors. Members of the Red Black Army are known for their enthusiastic chants, unwavering support, and vibrant displays during home and away matches.

Gabala's fans are characterized by their family-friendly approach and pride in their region. On home matches at Gabala City Stadium, supporters create a lively atmosphere with flags, banners, and coordinated cheers. Many fans travel from across the Qabala region, and the club enjoys a loyal following among local youth and families.

In recent years, Gabala FK's fan movement has also gained momentum on social media, connecting supporters across Azerbaijan and abroad, especially during the club’s European campaigns. The club regularly organizes fan events, bringing together the Gabala community and strengthening the connection between fans and players.

Stadium

Gabala FK plays its home matches at the Gabala City Stadium, located in Qabala, Azerbaijan. The stadium was opened in 2007 and features a capacity of approximately 4,500 spectators. Despite its relatively modest size, the stadium provides an intimate and vibrant setting for home games and is known for the intense support from local fans.

Gabala City Stadium has undergone several renovations to improve facilities and enhance the spectator experience, most notably in preparation for Gabala's participation in European competitions. Upgrades have included improved seating, modernized locker rooms, media facilities, and enhanced pitch quality.

The picturesque location of the stadium, surrounded by the Tufandag mountains, makes it one of the most scenic venues in the Azerbaijan Premier League. Gabala City Stadium stands as a proud symbol of the club’s ambition and its deep connection to the local community.

Honours and Awards

Gabala FK is recognized as one of the rising clubs in Azerbaijani football. While Gabala is yet to win the Azerbaijan Premier League title, the club has achieved notable success in domestic cup competitions and made history through participation in Europe.

The club's greatest achievement to date is winning the Azerbaijan Cup in the 2018–19 season. Gabala FK has also reached the final several times, cementing its reputation as a consistent contender. On the continental stage, the club qualified for the UEFA Europa League group stage in the 2015–16 season, a milestone for both Gabala and Azerbaijani football.

No	Cups	No. of Titles	Awards	Years
1	Azerbaijan Cup	1	Winner	2018–19
2	Azerbaijan Cup	3	Runner-up	2013–14, 2016–17, 2017–18
3	Azerbaijan Premier League	0	Best position: 2nd	2016–17, 2017–18
4	UEFA Europa League	1	Group Stage	2015–16

Bet on Gabala FK with Betimate's Predictions

Betimate is a website that provides up-to-date data and insights about Gabala FK. Whether you're a passionate supporter of Gabala or an experienced football bettor, Betimate offers a comprehensive suite of resources to facilitate informed decisions.

One of the main features of Betimate is its highly accurate predictions on the outcome of Gabala FK matches, based on a sophisticated algorithm that considers team dynamics, player statistics, recent form, and historical records. While predictions aim for up to 60% accuracy, they offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to bet on Gabala matches during both domestic and European competitions.

Beyond predictions, Betimate delivers detailed statistics on Gabala FK players, fixtures, historical performance, and honours. Additionally, fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news, squad updates, and match analysis, all presented through an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface.

Whether you are a dedicated fan or enjoy analysing football bets, Betimate stands as an essential resource for following Gabala FK and optimising your chances in football prediction markets.

FAQs about Gabala FK

Q: When was Gabala FK founded?

A: Gabala FK was founded in 2005.

Q: What are the official colors of Gabala FK?

A: The official colors of Gabala FK are red and black.

Q: What is the name and capacity of Gabala's stadium?

A: Gabala FK plays its home matches at Gabala City Stadium, which has a capacity of approximately 4,500 spectators.

Q: Has Gabala FK ever played in European competitions?

A: Yes, Gabala FK qualified for the UEFA Europa League group stage in the 2015–16 season.

Q: What is the biggest achievement in Gabala FK’s history?

A: The biggest achievement is winning the Azerbaijan Cup in the 2018–19 season and participating in the Europa League group stage.

Q: Who are Gabala FK’s biggest rivals?

A: Gabala’s main rivals are often considered to be Neftchi Baku and Qarabag FK, two of Azerbaijan’s most successful clubs.

Q: What is the name of Gabala FK’s main fan group?

A: The largest fan group is called the "Red Black Army."

Q: Who is the current head coach of Gabala FK?

A: Updating...

Q: What was Gabala FK’s best finish in the Azerbaijan Premier League?

A: Gabala FK achieved its best league finish as runners-up in the 2016–17 and 2017–18 seasons.

Q: Where is Gabala FK based?

A: Gabala FK is based in the city of Qabala, Azerbaijan.

Show more Less