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Kaizer Chiefs academy graduate Aden McCarthy watched from the bench as Sabah FC recorded an emphatic 4-0 victory over Gabala to strengthen their position at the top of the Azerbaijani Premyer Liqası.
Sabah delivered an impressive performance, scoring four goals without conceding to collect three valuable points. The result leaves the club with a two-point advantage at the summit, with a game in hand that could further strengthen its position in the title race.
McCarthy was an unused substitute for the encounter, bringing an end to his recent run of five consecutive full 90-minute appearances. His absence from the action could provide an opportunity to recover physically after a demanding period of regular football.
The South African defender has been working to establish himself at Sabah, and his recent involvement suggests he has become an important option for the technical team. Regular appearances have given him opportunities to gain experience and demonstrate his abilities in Azerbaijani football.
Despite not featuring against Gabala, McCarthy will hope to return to the starting lineup for Sabah’s upcoming fixtures. The club faces a demanding schedule, with domestic league ambitions and European competition providing further tests for the squad.
According to the supplied report, McCarthy is expected to return to action on October 20 when Sabah face Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League. The fixture would offer another opportunity for the young defender to test himself against high-level opposition, should he be selected.
Sabah are also preparing for a league meeting with Qarabag on October 25. The Azerbaijani club is a familiar name in European football, and the encounter could prove important as the title race develops.
For McCarthy, maintaining fitness and taking advantage of opportunities will be essential as he continues his development abroad. Having progressed through the Kaizer Chiefs academy, his performances in Azerbaijan could help him gain valuable experience at senior level.
Meanwhile, Sabah will be encouraged by their latest victory and their position at the top of the standings. With a two-point lead and a game in hand, the club has an opportunity to strengthen its advantage if it continues collecting positive results.
The focus will now shift to the upcoming fixtures, with supporters hoping McCarthy returns to the pitch as Sabah look to maintain their momentum in both domestic and European competitions.