Zimbru Falls 0-3 to Ararat-Armenia in Conference League
Zimbru was defeated 0-3 by Ararat-Armenia Yerevan in the first leg of the second preliminary round of the Conference League. Artur Serobyan and Eric Ocansey were the scorers for the visiting team.
Zimbru had a significant opportunity in the 18th minute. Justice Ohajunwa broke away on a counterattack, dribbled past the opposing goalkeeper, and shot, but a defender made an incredible block. The visitors were awarded a penalty in the 22nd minute after a foul by Denid Dedeciko in the box. Artur Serobian converted the penalty. In the 36th minute, Serobian missed from an ideal position after a save by goalkeeper Nicolae Cebotari.
After the break, the Moldovan goalkeeper made two more crucial saves against dangerous shots from Serobian. Eventually, Ararat-Armenia doubled their lead. Eric Ocansey capitalised on a defensive lapse by the "yellow-greens" and scored. The visitors were not content with this. In the 89th minute, on a counterattack, Ocansey again sent the ball into the net.
The return match will take place on August 1 in Yerevan.
Also this evening, Milsami Orhei drew 1-1 at home with FC Astana in the first leg of the second round. The visitors scored through Nazmi Gripshi, and the "red eagles" equalised at the end through Danny Koy Lupano.
In the Europa League, in the first leg of the second preliminary round, Sheriff Tiraspol lost 0-1 to the Swedish team Elfsborg Boras. The only goal was scored by Simon Hedlund from a penalty.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
