Liepaja Stun Decic 2-1 in Conference League Drama

Dečić 1-2 FK Liepaja. The Montenegrin night erupted then collapsed as the Latvian visitors staged a stunning second-half comeback in this Europa Conference League first qualifying round thriller.

Dečić’s early dominance fades

The roar from the Stadion Tuško Polje stands shook the mountains when Davor Kontić pounced on Sinisa Stanisavic’s 12th-minute through ball, slotting past Davis Oss to give Dečić a dream start. The hosts pressed like men possessed – Balša Radusinović and Aldin Adžović both earning yellow cards in a frantic 10-minute spell as they fought to protect their lead.

Liepaja’s perfect equaliser

Just as Dečić seemed set to take their advantage into the break, Kyvon Leidsman struck in first-half stoppage time, meeting Bart Straalman’s cross with a glancing header that left Danilo Radosevic rooted. The momentum shifted irrevocably when coach Andreas Alm sent on fresh legs – including the lively Anthony Ogunniyi for goalscorer Leidsman on 59 minutes.

Vieira’s hammer blow

The Brazilian striker Fellipe Vieira needed no invitation when presented with a loose ball on the hour mark, lashing home what proved to be the winner from 18 yards. Dečić threw on four substitutes simultaneously in desperation, but Liepaja’s defence held firm through a flurry of late yellows – Sorokins’ 90th-minute booking coming as they withstood one final onslaught.

What this means for both sides

Liepaja take a precious lead back to Latvia for the second leg after weathering Montenegro’s furnace. For Dečić, this bitter defeat leaves their European dreams hanging by a thread – they must now score at least twice in enemy territory to keep their continental campaign alive.