AF Elbasani vs BATE
Elbasan Arena
I. Orlic
2026/2027
Match Report
AF Elbasani made a strong European impression, holding BATE Borisov to a 1-1 draw at Elbasan Arena on Tuesday night in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round tie.
Ardit Nikaj was the hero for the hosts, tucking away a finish in the 45+1st minute from Rubin Hebaj's assist to send the 7,000-strong crowd into delirium just before the break. BATE leveled in the 67th minute through Egor Rusakov, who capitalized on a neat lay-off from Egor Kress. Andrey Zhurin (12') and Yoan Epitaux (65') both picked up yellows, though the contest was free of red cards or penalties.
With the tie finely poised, all eyes now turn to the second leg on July 16. Elbasani proved they can hold their own in Europe, but BATE head home with an away goal — a potentially vital cushion as they bid to advance.
Match Events
12'
45+1'
46'
62'
65'
67'
74'
74'
82'
84'
90+3'
12'
45+1'
46'
62'
65'
67'
74'
82'
84'
90+3'
Head to Head
0
AF Elbasani wins
2
Draws
0
BATE wins
Goals: 1 - 1
