Dramatic Europa League qualifier sees heartbreaking last-minute goal for Rijeka against Shelbourne
In a thrilling match at Tolka Park, Dublin, Shelbourne faced off against Rijeka in the Europa League 3rd qualifying round, 2nd leg. Despite a valiant effort, Shelbourne's European adventure came to an end with a 3-1 defeat on the night, and a 4-3 aggregate loss to the Croatian side.
The first half was a relatively quiet affair, with Rijeka's goalkeeper, Martin Zlomislic, barely tested. The deadlock was broken in the 33rd minute when Toni Fruk capitalised on a mistake in the Shelbourne defence to put Rijeka ahead.
Shelbourne had a chance to level the score just two minutes later, but James Norris' left-foot volley was straight at Zlomislic, and the rebound was missed by Coote.
Rijeka extended their lead in the 72nd minute when Tiago Dantas found the back of the net, making it 2-0. The goal seemed to deflate Shelbourne's spirits, and they struggled to create chances in the remaining minutes.
However, Shelbourne were awarded a penalty in the 86th minute after a three-minute VAR check due to John Martin's shirt being tugged by Ante Orec. Ademipo Odubeko stepped up to take the penalty and converted, leveling the aggregate score.
But just four minutes into stoppage time, Ante Orec scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner for Rijeka, securing the 3-1 win on the night and a 4-3 aggregate victory.
Shelbourne's Europa League run ended with this defeat, but they have a chance to continue in the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds. The opponents for the play-off round will be determined on Thursday. There is a possibility that Shelbourne could face Linfield if Linfield overcome Vikingur of the Faroe Islands.
The match was a nail-biting affair, with both teams creating chances and playing some exciting football. Rijeka's right-back, Orec, touched a cross from Merveil Ndockyt to score the winning goal, while Mladen Devetak was under pressure from Odubeko when Odubeko shot just wide from McInroy's cross into the near post.
Despite the defeat, Shelbourne can take heart from their performance against a strong Rijeka side, and will be hoping to continue their European journey in the Conference League.
In the tension-filled match at Tolka Park, both Shelbourne and Rijeka displayed impressive football skills, suggesting that they both have a passion for sports, particularly football. Despite their valiant effort, Shelbourne's defeat against Rijeka in the Europa League 3rd qualifying round, 2nd leg, has brought their European journey to an end, but they still hold the opportunity to continue in the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds.
