Balzan go down to Neftchi

BALZAN-0, NEFTCHI BAKU-2 Balzan produced a bold second-half performance but it was not enough as they slipped to a 2-0 loss to Azerbaijan side Neftchi Baku in the first leg of their Europa League first qualifying round match. Neftchi were the better side in the opening period but Balzan piled the pressure after the change of ends, missing at least three good chances to equalise in the second half but their failure to score returned to haunt them as Neftchi converted a late penalty to all but secure their place in the next round of the Europa League. Neftchi Baku were the better team in a dull first half. They took the lead after 14 minutes when Rahman Hajiyev's free-kick, from a wide position, surprised Ivan Janjusevic, the Balzan goalkeeper. Before that, Paul Fenech was wide with a shot from outside the box. Neftchi had a great chance to double their lead but Dario Melnjak fired over from close range after his run had unsettled the Balzan defence. Two minutes into the second half, Balzan striker Kaljevic managed to anticipate Jairo in the box but his effort was saved by Krsevan Santini, the Neftchi goalkeeper. There was also a chance for Neftchi but Vanche Shikov hit wide from...

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