SKOPJE, North Macedonia – Samsunspor secured a crucial away victory Thursday, defeating Shkendija 1-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League Play-Off round. The Turkish side now carries a one-goal advantage into next week’s return fixture in Samsun, aiming to reach the competition’s Round of 16. The match, played in challenging conditions, saw a resilient Samsunspor overcome a determined Shkendija side.
Despite an early setback – a missed penalty in the 6th minute by Cherif Ndiaye – Samsunspor maintained their composure and gradually asserted control. The game remained scoreless until the 77th minute when Marius Mouandilmadji broke the deadlock, capitalizing on an assist from Carlo Holse. The goal, a significant moment in the tie, gives Samsunspor a tangible advantage as they prepare to host Shkendija at the Samsun 19 Mayıs Stadium on February 26th. This result marks a positive step for the Turkish club in their European campaign.
Early Opportunities and a Missed Chance
The match began with a flurry of activity, and Samsunspor quickly earned a penalty after Assoumou was fouled in the 6th minute. However, Ndiaye’s spot-kick sailed over the crossbar, failing to grant the visitors an early lead. Shkendija responded with a dangerous attack in the 17th minute, but goalkeeper Okan Kocuk was able to deny Tampa’s attempt. Both teams continued to create chances in the first half, with Holse coming close for Samsunspor in the 23rd minute, his shot narrowly missing the target. The first half concluded without a goal, setting the stage for a tense second period.
Mouandilmadji’s Decisive Strike
The second half saw continued back-and-forth action. Shkendija threatened through Besart Ibraimi in the 51st minute, but his effort went just wide. Samsunspor’s goalkeeper, Gaye, was called into action in the 54th minute to deny Assoumou. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 77th minute when Holse’s precise cross found Mouandilmadji, who slotted the ball past the Shkendija goalkeeper. The goal sparked celebrations among the Samsunspor players and supporters, and proved to be the difference between the two sides.
Key Moments and Team Lineups
The closing stages of the match saw both teams pushing for a goal. Mouandilmadji nearly doubled Samsunspor’s lead in the 88th minute, but his shot hit the post. Shkendija, desperate for an equalizer, threw everything forward, but Samsunspor’s defense held firm. The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory for the Turkish side.
Shkendija Starting XI: Gaye, Murati, Fetai, Meliqi, Webster, Ramadani, Alhassan, Tamba, Zejnullai, Spahiu, Ibraimi
Samsunspor Starting XI: Okan Kocuk, Zeki, Satka, Van Drongelen, Tomasson, Makoumbou, Ntcham, Mendes, Holse, Assoumou, Ndiaye
Looking Ahead
Samsunspor will now turn their attention to the return leg against Shkendija on February 26th, where they will aim to defend their narrow lead and secure their place in the Conference League Round of 16. Domestically, the team faces a trip to Fatih Karagümrük in Turkish league action. Shkendija, meanwhile, will return to league play with a match against Sileks. The outcome of the second leg will determine which team progresses in the UEFA Conference League.
The first leg provided a glimpse into the competitive nature of this tie, and the return match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Samsunspor will be hoping to capitalize on their away goal and secure a positive result in front of their home fans. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments regarding Samsunspor’s European campaign through official club channels.
What are your thoughts on Samsunspor’s chances of progressing to the next round? Share your predictions and comments below.
