Beitar battle through in Europa League qualifier

Beitar Jerusalem are through to the second round of the Europa League qualifiers after they beat Ordabasy Shymkent 2-1 on Thursday evening.

In what was their first European tie in 15 years, and having earned a 0-0 draw in the first leg in Kazakhstan last week, goals from Omer Atzili and Dovev Gabay put them in control by the hour mark. Kyrylo Petrov halved the deficit for the visitors with six minutes remaining, but Beitar held on to book a second round tie against Belgian side Charleroi.

Coach Slobodan Drapic said: “We said before the tie that we haven’t got time to build the team, but the guys did a great job and they deserve every credit, we knew that Shymkent would be in better shape as they are midway through their season, but we did well. We need to take it one game at a time.”

Hapoel Beersheba also join the competition next week when they take on Swiss side FC Thun, hosting the first leg. Ironi Kiryat Shmona join the competition in the third qualifying round, which is followed by a playoff round for a place in the group stage.