The first-leg game between Zimbru şi Skendija, of the qualifying round of Europa League, was played in Macedonia. The hosts scored a 2-1 victory, IPN reports.

Vrucina and Mitrov scored for Skendija in the 45th+5 and the 47th minute, but Alexandru Grosu’s goal in the 51st minute gives Zimbru a chance to qualify. The former striker of FC Tiraspol transformed a penalty kick form Alexandru Dedov. In the return match on July 10, Zimbru can qualify by a 1-0 scoreline for the next round, where it might meet CSKA Sofia.

“The game in Moldova will be hard, but we will play as at home – well-organized and mercilessly in parts,” Ivan Mitrov said after the game. He scored a goal as a result of a mistake made by goalkeeper Denis Rusu.

Zimbru lineup: Rusu, Erhan, Pavliuchek, Vremea, Jardan, Bogdan, Dedov (Pashchenko 54), Klimovici, Cheptine (Anton 73), Amani (Damascan 86), Grosu. Coach: Oleg Kubarev.

In the qualifying round of Europa League on July 3, Moldova’s Veris and FC Tiraspol meet at home Litex Loveci and Inter Baku.