South African defender Aden McCarthy and Sabah FK have qualified for the UEFA Champions League league phase after a thrilling 6-4 aggregate victory over Hapoel Be’er Sheva.
A Historic Night in Azerbaijan
Sabah FK secured their spot in the elite European competition following a dramatic play-off clash.
Trailing 2-1 after the first leg against Hapoel Be’er Sheva, the Azerbaijani club knew they needed a strong response on home turf.
They delivered an incredible performance, winning the second leg and taking a 5-2 victory on the night to seal a 6-4 aggregate triumph.The stadium erupted as the final whistle blew.
Players and staff rushed the pitch to celebrate a monumental milestone for the young club. For Sabah FK, reaching the biggest stage in club football marks the absolute peak of their rapid rise through domestic and continental ranks.
Aden McCarthy’s Remarkable Journey
At just 22 years old, central defender Aden McCarthy has taken a massive step in his professional career.
Just months ago, McCarthy was a fan favorite anchoring the defense for Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa.
He enjoyed a stellar breakout campaign during the 2025-26 season, making 31 appearances and helping Kaizer Chiefs secure a strong third-place finish—their highest league standing in six years.
His solid performances caught the eye of scouts abroad. In June 2026, McCarthy finalized a high-profile transfer to Sabah FK, signing a three-year contract.
Moving to a new country and adapting to a different style of football can challenge any young player. However, McCarthy settled in quickly.
Although he began the decisive second leg against Hapoel Be’er Sheva on the bench, his contributions throughout the early qualifying rounds helped steer Sabah through tough battles against teams like AGF Aarhus and The New Saints.
The Rise of Sabah FK
Founded only eight years ago, Sabah FK has grown at an astonishing speed.
The club claimed the Azerbaijan Premier League title, earning their maiden ticket to the UEFA Champions League qualifiers.
Club leaders invested heavily in the offseason to prepare for the heavy demands of European football. That bet paid off brilliantly.
Overcoming Hapoel Be’er Sheva proves that Sabah is no longer just a domestic surprise.
They are ready to test themselves against Europe’s finest heavyweight clubs in the upcoming league phase.
Looking Ahead to the Group Stage
Now, McCarthy and his teammates will line up alongside the heavy hitters of European football.
They will face legendary clubs, travel to iconic stadiums, and showcase their talents on world television.
For South African football fans, watching McCarthy achieve this dream brings immense pride.
It highlights the potential of local talent when given an opportunity on the global stage.
As the draw approaches, excitement builds in both Baku and South Africa.
Sabah FK enters the Champions League with no fear, ready to write the next chapter of their fairy-tale story.
