Kostanay's Tobol ended their European campaign, losing 1:2 to Belgrade's Partizan in the second leg of the third qualifying round of the Conference League. The match took place on August 13 at the Kostanay stadium, reports infohub.kz.
After a heavy 0:3 defeat in Belgrade, the Kazakhstani side needed a miracle to advance to the playoff round. The miracle did not happen, although Miroslav Romashchenko's men showed character and won the first half. However, the Serbian 'Grobari' proved stronger.
Already in the 7th minute, Islam Chesnokov scored a stunning volley, converting a cross from Venezuelan Luis Guerra, giving hope for the impossible – 1:0. Early in the second half, defender Stefan Mitrovic scored a ghost goal from a corner, which Italian referee Daniele Chiffi did not immediately confirm – 1:1.
In the remaining time, the Kostanay side had several chances to take the lead, but luck was not on their side. The final point in the match and in Tobol's entire European campaign was set in stoppage time by Ivorian-Serbian Shaka Traore – 1:2.
Earlier on Tuesday, Almaty's Kairat exited the Champions League qualifying, losing 0:1 to the same Partizan in Turkestan. Rafael Urazbakhtin's side will continue in the Europa League. On August 20 at home and August 27 away, the Kazakh champions will face either Belgian Anderlecht or Greek PAOK.