Valiant Sochi fend off Partizan at home

UEFA Europa Conference League, Third Qualifying Round, First Leg
FC Sochi 1-1 Partizan Belgrade
Thursday August 5, Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Goals: Sochi - Noboa 66’ (penalty); Partizan - Ricardo 73’

Vladimir Fedotov’s Sochi valiantly fought off Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade in the first leg of their European tie. Partizan, despite finishing second in Serbia last season, were rampant in the league and were clear favourites going into the game. Notwithstanding the quality of their opposition, Sochi stuck to their game plan well and in the 66th minute, took the lead through a penalty from the evergreen Cristhian Noboa. Unfortunately, Cape Verdean striker Ricardo tapped in from close range just seven minutes later.

After securing an impressive draw, Sochi will now go to Belgrade next week in the second leg. Before that, they’ll have a match against Ural on Monday night.