“Tskhinvali” played draw (1:1) with Romania’s “Botosani” in UEFA Europa League first qualifying round.
The match was held at Municipal Stadium in Botosani. The guests had a huge advantage but Kakha Kacharava’s players played devotedly and it paid off. Goalkeeper and captain Giorgi Nadiradze’s good game is worth mentioning.
Nadiradze was unable to parry the ball only in one episode. At the 21st minute Ivanovici scored a goal and the Romanians won the first half 1:0.
The Georgians started the second half well. At the 46th minute Giorgi Tsertsvadze assisted Nika Kacharava who scored a goal – 1:1.
“Botosani” had a territorial advantage but the team could not manage to win the match.
“Tskhinvali” had a successful start at the European tournament. The team will hold the second leg at “Mikheil Meskhi” stadium in Tbilisi on July 9. If “Tskhinvali” overcomes the Romanian obstacle, the team will face Poland’s “Legia”.
UEFA Europa League first qualifying round. “Municipal” (Botosani), Romania
Botosani (Romania) – Tskhinvali (Georgia) 1:1 (1:0)
Botosani: Iliev, Cordos, Plamada, Croitoru (Brata, 74), Ivanovici (Batin, 86), Vasvari, Martinus, Browne, Costin, Hadnagy (Roman, 46), Dimitrov.
Head coach: Leontin Grozavu
Tskhinvali: Nadiradze, Bachiashvili, Tsertsvadze, Lekvtadze (Shulaia, 63), Gigauri (Burdzenadze, 77), Kacharava, Ivanishvili (Kachkachishvili), Kakubava, Tstskrialashvili, Kardava, Kilasonia.
Head coach: Kakha Kacharava
Goals: 1:0 Ivanovici (21), Kacharava 1:1 (46).
Yellow cards: Lekvtadze (34), Kilasonia (83), Nadiradze (90), Kardava (90+3).
Referee: Lorenc Jemini (Albania)
