Alashkert Defeat Urartu and Go Top, Yerevan Club Issues Strong Statement

In the 22nd round of the Armenian Premier League, Alashkert secured an important 3–1 victory over Urartu, strengthening their position in the race for European competition spots.

The match began evenly, with both teams scoring before halftime and heading into the break at 1–1. The key moment came in the 43rd minute when Urartu goalkeeper Alexander Mishiev was sent off, leaving the hosts down to ten men.

In the second half, Alashkert capitalized on their numerical advantage, scoring twice to seal the win. Karen Nalbandyan scored a brace, while Jefferson Granado added another goal. Urartu’s only goal was netted by Miguel Velosa. Deep into stoppage time, in the 94th minute, Urartu were reduced to nine players after Narek Agasaryan received a second red card.

Following the victory, Alashkert moved to the top of the table with 42 points, although they have played more matches than their rivals. Urartu and Ararat-Armenia also have 42 points. Pyunik (41) and Noah (38) follow behind.

Official Reaction from Urartu

After the match, Urartu’s General Director David Shahbazyan issued a strong statement in which the club refused to recognize the result of the game.

According to the official, the outcome was “shaped under conditions of serious refereeing errors,” and the level of officiating was described as unacceptable. The statement emphasized that refereeing issues remain systemic and directly affect trust in the championship.

The club also criticized the Football Federation of Armenia for the lack of consistent steps to improve refereeing standards and demanded:

• Immediate reforms
• The introduction of accountability mechanisms for referees
• Equal and impartial treatment of all tournament participants

Urartu stressed that such mistakes at the end of the season could influence the final standings and cast doubt on the fairness of the championship.

“The winner must be determined on the pitch, not because of refereeing mistakes,” the club’s statement reads.