Narva Trans’ U19 squad kicked off their UEFA Youth League first qualifying round with a narrow 1-0 victory over Faroe Islands’ Vikingur. With the return leg scheduled in two weeks, the young Estonians will look to defend their slim advantage on foreign soil.
The match started perfectly for Trans. In the 4th minute, Arnas Besigirskis delivered a precise cross from the left flank, and Nikita Baljabkin expertly directed the ball into the net. While Trans gradually ceded possession during the first half, Vikingur were unable to seriously threaten goalkeeper Mark Zahharov. Trans had a couple of half-chances of their own, and the teams went into the break with the home side clinging to a slender lead.
The second half saw Vikingur dominate possession, but Trans created few dangerous opportunities. Tension peaked in stoppage time when Vikingur players appealed for handball and two penalty claims, yet the Norwegian referee’s whistle stayed silent. The match concluded with Trans celebrating a hard-fought victory.
Narva Trans earned their spot in the UEFA Youth League by winning the U19 Elite League Championship, defeating Pärnu Vaprus 3-2 at A. Le Coq Arena in May. The return leg takes place on October 1 in Tórshavn, and if Trans can defend their lead, they will advance to face Belgian side KRC Genk in the second qualifying round.
JK Narva Trans U19 vs Vikingur U19 – 1:0 (1:0)
Goals: Baljabkin 4′
