SPORTSWORLD.AM
Days later, the match between Noah and Legia in the fifth round of the UEFA Conference League League stage at Yerevan's Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium was going to be like a life-and-death struggle.
The team representing Warsaw will arrive in Yerevan after a heavy defeat to Piast (0:2). One failure could be fatal for Legia's head coach Gonzalo Fejo, another defeat could see him resign from his position.
Armenian champions/cup holders Noah, despite losing to CSKA (2:3) in a match postponed from the second round of the Fastex Premier League, will enter the field doubly motivated. Considering the two red cards given by the referee (Nardin Mulahuseynovic, Fofana Bilal). The victory would have been a historic achievement for the Yerevan club. If Sandro Perkovic's men overcome Legia's obstacle, they will be relegated to the Conference League play-offs.
A heated battle was also expected in the stands. Despite UEFA's ban on Polish fans entering the stadium, according to some reports, they purchased tickets for the match with the help of Armenian intermediaries. The club's press service made a statement, noting that visiting fans will be banned from entering the home sections, and ticket purchases will not be refunded.
According to experts, the outcome of the match will be decided in a competitive confrontation. Given the defensive sluggishness of Legia, the Armenian team will focus on counterattacks. Helder Ferreira can become a real headache for the guests.
The Poles will have to rely on individual skill. Special attention will be paid to Armenian national team player Vahan Bichakhchyan, who will have to play against his compatriots in his home stadium.
Let us remind you that the “Noah”-“Legia” match will take place on December 11 at Yerevan’s “Republican” Stadium named after Vazgen Sargsyan at 21:45 Yerevan time, which could pave the way for the European Cup spring, and for “Legia” it is the last chance to save the failed season. “Noah” currently occupies the 23rd place in the standings with five points, while “Legia” was 28th with three points.
Vladimir Gabrielyan