Nigerian forward Victor Olatunji emerged from the bench to score a vital equaliser for Sparta Prague in their draw against FCSB in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round.
With defeat looming, Olatunji’s late strike salvaged a 1-1 draw for Sparta Prague as they maintained their Champions League qualification hopes, Footballrover reports.
The Czech side, riding a wave of five consecutive victories, entered the match in impressive form. However, their unbeaten run was halted by the determined Romanian visitors.
FCSB stunned the home crowd in the 61st minute when Darius Olaru set up Joyskim Dawa for the opening goal.
A goalless first half was followed by a breakthrough for the visitors early in the second period.
Introduced in the 72nd minute as a replacement for Jan Kuchta, Olatunji made an immediate impact, equalising just six minutes later.
ππππππ ππππππππ 1:1 π₯π @ACSparta_CZ #NovaSport #ACSparta pic.twitter.com/jlOu2pVBbl
— Nova Sport (@novasport_cz) August 6, 2024
Sparta Prague thought they had snatched a late winner through Kaan Kairinen, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The 1-1 draw at Epet Arena keeps the Champions League dream alive for Sparta Prague, who will see FCSB host the return leg at the Arena Nationala next week.
Before then, Olatunji and his teammates will have to face a league match against Bohemians in the Czech Republic Chance Liga.
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