Israeli club Hapoel Beer Sheva played out a goalless draw against Levski Sofia from Bulgaria in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.
Read More: In-form Japan set to take on Sweden in 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal
Desperately seeking a win at the Toto Turner Stadium in Beer Sheva, Levski had several chances to score in the first half. Brazilian player Ricardinho’s shot was stopped by goalkeeper Ofir Marciano in the 30th minute. Another Brazilian, Welton, missed a clear goal opportunity 10 minutes later.
Read More: Spain beat defending champions Netherlands to reach FIFA Women’s World Cup semis
In the 54th minute, goalkeeper Marciano proved his worth yet again, blocking a header from Brazilian player Ronaldo. Later, Beer Sheva’s Bulgarian player Yoan Stoyanov and Amir Ganah came close to scoring but Levski’s goalkeeper Plamen Andreev thwarted their attempts. The second leg of the match will be held in Sofia on August 17. The team with the better combined score will face Eintracht Frankfurt in the two-leg playoffs.
Read More: France hammer Morocco 4-0, to meet Australia in FIFA Women’s World Cup quarters
In other matches, Tobol from Kazakhstan defeated Derry from Israel 1-0, Struga from North Macedonia won 3-1, Sabah from Azerbaijan triumphed over Partizan from Serbia 2-0, and Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe from Romania drew 1-1 with Aktobe from Kazakhstan.
