Alashkert Let Victory Slip Against CFR Cluj in Conference League First Leg

Alashkert and Romanian side CFR Cluj drew 1–1 in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round.

The opening goal came in the 34th minute, when Rafael Jesus scored following an assist from Karen Nalbandyan. It was the Brazilian forward’s first goal for Alashkert.

Andrea Sfaiț equalised early in the second half.

Before the match, a draw against one of the favourites of the tie would have been considered a positive result for the Armenian side. However, judging by the way the game unfolded, Alashkert were closer to victory. They were particularly impressive in the first half, showing greater intensity, pressing their opponents effectively and winning more individual duels.

Alashkert raised the tempo again toward the end of the second half and tried to find a winning goal, but the score remained unchanged.

CFR Cluj entered the match as favourites despite reports of financial difficulties and unpaid wages at the club. On the pitch, however, Alashkert were at least a match for the Romanian side and clearly outperformed them during certain periods of the game.

The draw can therefore be viewed as a missed opportunity for the Armenian club rather than a point gained. Alashkert have now finished three consecutive matches with a 1–1 scoreline after regular time.

The second leg will take place in Cluj on July 30.

Alashkert Line-up

Arsen Beglaryan — Hakob Hakobyan (Sadoyan, 70), Cesar, Yaroslav Matyukhin, David Terteryan (Robert Hakobyan, 90+3) — Edgar Piloyan, Karen Nalbandyan, Rafael Jesus (Adebayo, 70) — Olawale Farayola, Joseph Sabobo (Massumu, 46), Momo Toure (Ejike, 77).