The footballers of Banjaluka’s Borac failed to qualify for the group stage of the Europa League.
After a draw in Budapest seven days ago, the reigning champions of Bosnia and Herzegovina once again played to a draw at the City Stadium in Banjaluka.
The result after regular time was 0-0, and after two extra time periods, it ended 1-1. In the penalty shootout, the Hungarian team prevailed 3-2, with Borac missing three penalties.
After the penalty shootout, the Hungarian team was ultimately more successful and will play in the Europa League group stage, while Borac will seek European success in the Conference League.
At no point was Borac outclassed by their renowned guests from the Hungarian capital; in fact, they were often the more dangerous side, seizing opportunities on the counter-attack. They found such an opportunity in the first extra time, when Majers scored following a corner, sparking great celebrations for the representatives of Republika Srpska.
However, in the second minute of the second extra time, a baffling mistake by the hero of this two-legged tie, goalkeeper Manojlović, who missed the ball and conceded a penalty, allowed Varga to equalize and send the match to penalties.
Despite the setback, Borac’s European journey continues in the Conference League, where they will play at least six more matches.
The match was attended by the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, who was in the stands offering strong support to the Borac players.
Source: RTRS
