Celje Draw 3–3 with Egnatia in Thrilling Champions League Qualifier
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NK Celje played out a dramatic 3–3 draw against Albanian champions Egnatia in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round on July 22. Celje twice came from behind and even took the lead in Rrogozhinë, but the home side found a late equaliser to leave the tie completely open ahead of the return match in Slovenia
Foto: Lovro.K - Mr green
Early Setback in Albania
Celje got off to a rocky start at the Arena Egnatia, falling behind just seven minutes in. Eneo Bitri put the hosts ahead after being set up by Altin Kryeziu, giving the Albanian side a dream opening.
The Slovenian champions didn't panic, though. They slowly found their footing and were eventually rewarded right before the halftime whistle. In the 45th minute, Mario Kvesić latched onto a pass from Svit Seslar to level the score at 1–1, shifting the momentum just as the teams headed to the locker rooms.
Celje Turns the Tide
Celje carried that energy into the second half, completing the comeback in the 54th minute. Armandas Kučys found the back of the net thanks to an assist from Leonardo Koutris, putting the visitors up 2–1.
The lead didn't last long. Egnatia hit back quickly in the 58th minute through Fernando Medeiros, making it 2–2 and ensuring a nervous finish for both sides.
Celje remained composed, and Kvesić stepped up again in the 66th minute to grab his second goal of the night. With Celje back in front at 3–2, the midfielder cemented his role as the standout performer in what was turning into a thrilling European clash.
A Late Twist Leaves the Tie Level
Feeding off the home crowd, Egnatia kept pushing and finally found their equalizer in the 78th minute. Substitute Ibrahim Diabaté made his mark, scoring from a Medeiros pass to make it 3–3.
Both teams hunted for a late winner, but the goals dried up in the closing stages. While Celje controlled more of the ball and earned several corners, Egnatia's direct style kept them dangerous, forcing more saves out of the visitors' keeper.
The draw means it's all on the line for the second leg at Arena Z'dežele, where the winner will move on to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League.
High Stakes in Celje
Celje proved they have the firepower to compete on the road, netting three goals and twice holding the lead. However, they'll also know they need to tighten things up at the back to finish the job at home.
With the score locked at 3–3, the tie is wide open. Celje will be counting on their home fans to help them push past Egnatia and keep their Champions League dreams alive.
The second leg between NK Celje and Egnatia kicks off on July 28 at the Arena Z'dežele.
Source: UEFA – Egnatia vs Celje