Azerbaijan - Iceland prediction, H2H and probable lineups - November 13, 2025
One of the key fixtures of the 9th round in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers will take place on Thursday at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium in Baku, where Azerbaijan will host Iceland. Here’s a bet on the outcome of this clash with strong chances for success.
Match preview
The Azerbaijan national team has virtually lost all tournament motivation — sitting at the bottom of Group D and now winless in 14 straight World Cup qualifiers. Their only point came at home against Ukraine (1-1), but otherwise, their campaign has been a string of disappointments. Defensive struggles persist: seven losses in their last eight matches, frequent goals conceded, and a general lack of stability on the pitch.
Even at home, Azerbaijan can’t seem to find consistency — five defeats in their last six home qualifiers. The team regularly allows two or more goals per game, and their attack relies too heavily on individual moments. The first-choice goalkeeper is suspended, compounding their defensive woes. With minimal motivation, personnel issues, and the pressure of the home crowd, the odds are stacked against the hosts.
Iceland, on the other hand, still has hopes for second place and a playoff spot, especially after their 2-2 draw with France in the previous round. Their biggest asset remains their scoring power — 11 goals in five matches, the best tally in the group. Their dominant 5-0 win over Azerbaijan in the first leg underlined the gulf in class between these teams, a gap that will be hard to bridge even with the away status this time around.
Iceland are less convincing on the road, but the significance of this match should provide extra motivation. The group remains wide open, and dropping points to the clear underdog would be a disaster. Expect a pragmatic approach focused on the result — likely without a huge rout, but with firm control and a confident victory.
Probable lineups
- Azerbaijan: Aghayev, Mustafazade, Guseynov, Krivotsyuk, Badalov, Jafarguliyev, Khaibulaev, Mahmudov, Nuriyev, Akhmedzade, Akhundzade
- Iceland: Valdimarsson, Ingason, Palsson, Ellertsson, Gretarsson, Thordarson, Johannesson, Haraldsson, Gudmundsson, Magnusson, Gudjonson
Match facts and head-to-head
- Azerbaijan are winless in 14 consecutive World Cup qualifiers.
- Iceland defeated Azerbaijan 5-0 in the first round.
- Seven of Azerbaijan’s last eight qualifiers have seen three or more goals scored.
Prediction
Azerbaijan is no longer in the hunt for results and, judging by the first encounter, can’t compete with the Vikings even at home. Iceland, in contrast, remain in playoff contention and are obliged to win to avoid relying on other results in the final round. Expect the visitors to play for a win and maintain control, without unnecessary risks. Our pick: Iceland to win at 1.60.
