Maccabi Edge Sheriff 1-0 in Europa League Qualifying Drama

Maccabi Tel Aviv squeezed past Sheriff Tiraspol 1-0 in a nervy Europa League second qualifying round clash decided by Samba Koné’s first-half own goal – a moment of cruel fortune that left the Moldovan champions cursing their luck in Tel Aviv.

Maccabi’s Pressure Tells Before the Break

The hosts came flying out the blocks, pinning Sheriff back with relentless wing play that yielded 12 corners before half-time. Their pressure told in the 29th minute when Koné, under duress from Sagiv Jehezkel, could only divert a wicked low cross past his own keeper Emil Têmbur. The Bloomfield Stadium erupted as Sheriff’s defensive resolve cracked at last.

Sheriff’s Frustration Boils Over

Victor Mihailov’s side emerged with greater intent after the break, but their attacking moves repeatedly foundered on Maccabi’s organised backline. Frustration grew as Vahid Nihaev earned a yellow card for a cynical 71st-minute foul, with substitute Baye Assane Ciss joining him in the book deep in stoppage time. Sheriff’s desperation was laid bare by five second-half substitutions, but they failed to register a single shot on target all night.

Maccabi’s Gritty Professionalism

Kenny Miller’s men showed their European experience, managing the game intelligently despite Sheriff’s late push. The Israeli champions sacrificed attacking flair for defensive solidity after the break, with Miller withdrawing wingers Jehezkel and Ido Shahar for fresh legs. Their 50% possession belied control of the game’s tempo, restricting Sheriff to hopeful long balls that Maccabi’s centre-backs mopped up with ease.

What This Means for Both Sides

For Maccabi, this hard-fought win keeps alive their dream of reaching the group stages for a third consecutive year. They’ll take a slender but precious lead to Moldova for the second leg. Sheriff, meanwhile, face an uphill battle after failing to score an away goal. Their European campaign now hinges on overturning this deficit at home – but their toothless attacking display in Tel Aviv offers little encouragement.