Aghayev’s Early Counter Seals Another Cadet European Crown for Azerbaijan

Nihad Aghayev was the decisive name in the -50 kg category as Azerbaijan added another Cadet European title to its already strong record in the division. The final became an all-Azerbaijani showdown after Aghayev and Farid Rzazade both advanced through the semi-finals to guarantee the nation another gold medal in the category.

That outcome carried extra weight. Azerbaijan had already built an exceptional history at Cadet European level in -50 kg, with eight of the 24 titles previously contested in the division. Before the final even began, that total was certain to rise again.

The gold medal match brought an unusual atmosphere as teammates met for the title. With both athletes representing the same team, coaches stayed respectfully away from the field of play and left the contest to be settled by the judoka themselves.

It did not take long for the key moment to arrive. Rzazade opened with the first attack, but Aghayev reacted instantly. He defended the action and turned it into a sharply timed yoko-sumi-gaeshi, scoring Waza-ari within the opening seconds and taking control of the final almost immediately.

One fast counter changed the entire final.

Rzazade did not let the match drift away. He stayed aggressive and worked his way back with two yuko scores, pushing Aghayev and keeping the pressure high through the remainder of the contest. The response showed real resilience, especially after conceding so early.

Even so, the first score remained the difference. Aghayev handled the rest of the match with composure and tactical maturity, protecting his lead and closing out the contest to take the Cadet European title.

For Azerbaijan, it was another powerful reminder of how consistent the country has been in this weight category. For Aghayev, it was a final defined by awareness, timing and calm under pressure. In a match between teammates where little could be hidden, one perfectly read exchange made all the difference.

Azerbaijan’s grip on -50 kg grew even stronger again.

Source: EJU.net