A historic night for Borac! In their debut appearance in the group stage of the UEFA Europa Conference League, the team from Banja Luka earned their first point with a 1-1 draw against the renowned Panathinaikos. The red-blues played a brilliant match and continued their string of European successes.
Panathinaikos took the lead from their first chance. In the 11th minute, Filip Mladenović delivered a cross, and Tasos Bakasetas was in the right place to send the ball into the net.
The early goal did not unsettle the home team. Borac played even more courageously, with Enver Kulašin threatening in the 21st minute but shooting wide of the goal.
The pressure from Borac continued as they sought an equalizer, with Đorđe Despotović coming close in the 25th minute. The striker took a well-executed free kick but was just off target.
Jurah Karolina also had an attempt soon after.
Borac came out even stronger in the second half, and their efforts paid off in the 50th minute. Team captain Sebastijan Erera delivered a cross, and Đorđe Despotović responded brilliantly, scoring a goal that sent the Gradski Stadium into a frenzy.
This was Borac’s first-ever goal in the group stage, etching Despotović’s name among the club’s greats. Borac nearly took the lead moments later, but Erera’s attempt was blocked.
The visitors had a great chance through Šporar, but he failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
The introduction of Tete revitalized Panathinaikos’ attack, and the Brazilian came close, hitting the post in the 72nd minute.
In the closing stages, Panathinaikos ramped up the pressure, with Mladenović having an excellent chance, but Majers made a crucial block.
With this draw, Borac earned an additional €133,000 in Europe.
Source: Glas Srpske
