Petrocub
Petrocub 3-3 Borac Banja Luka: Europa Conference League 2nd Qualifying Round
The Stadionul Zimbru shook with disbelief as Petrocub surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Borac Banja Luka in a Europa Conference League qualifier that swung like a pendulum in the Moldovan summer heat. Nicolae Rotaru’s first-half brace had seemingly put the hosts in control, only for Stefan Savic and Amer Hiros to ignite a Bosnian comeback that culminated in Ante Roguljic’s 78th-minute equaliser.
Petrocub’s Early Dominance
The Moldovans exploded from the blocks, Rotaru opening the scoring in the 13th minute with a clinical finish from Ion Jardan’s cutback. Six minutes later, Petrocub doubled their lead when Sergiu Platica’s whipped cross found Petru Popescu unmarked at the back post. The 2,000 home fans roared – this was going to plan.
Borac’s Second-Half Resurgence
Whatever Vinko Marinovic said at half-time worked. Five minutes after the restart, Savic halved the deficit with a glancing header from Hiros’ delivery. Rotaru restored Petrocub’s two-goal cushion almost immediately, slotting home Popescu’s through ball, but chaos ensued. Hiros volleyed home from Miloš Jojic’s cross in the 56th minute before Marius Iosipoi’s yellow card signalled Petrocub’s unraveling. Roguljic, just six minutes after coming on, completed the comeback by pouncing on Savic’s knockdown.
What This Means
For Petrocub, this feels like a defeat. Shota Makharadze’s side had qualification in their grasp but now travel to Bosnia needing to score. Borac, meanwhile, will believe their European adventure continues – they’ve shown the fight required at this level. The second leg promises fireworks.
Key Moments
13′ ⚽ Petrocub — N. Rotaru (assist: I. Jardan)
19′ ⚽ Petrocub — P. Popescu (assist: S. Platica)
50′ ⚽ Borac Banja Luka — S. Savic (assist: A. Hiros)
52′ ⚽ Petrocub — N. Rotaru (assist: P. Popescu)🔮 Before kick-off: our match preview & prediction.
