Paide Linnameeskond produced another standout results of Estonia’s European campaign after scoring late to defeat Azerbaijani side Zira 1-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League second qualifying round tie at Pärnu Rannastaadion.
Paide spent much of the opening half defending against a Zira side that controlled possession, but improved significantly after the break before substitute Pa Abdou Cham struck in the 87th minute to secure a memorable victory.
The visitors showed their threat inside the opening minute, forcing goalkeeper Ebrima Jarju into an early save, although the move was eventually ruled offside. Zira continued to dominate the ball and pushed Paide into a deeper defensive shape, but struggled to turn their possession into clear scoring opportunities.
Paide also found it difficult to create chances during the first half. Zira enjoyed 66 per cent of possession and registered ten attempts before the break, three of them on target, while the Estonian side managed only one effort and failed to test goalkeeper Aydin Bayramov.
The hosts looked far more dangerous after half-time. Siim Luts caused problems with his movement on the left and saw one effort blocked after being released by Muhammed Badamosi, before the Gambian striker forced Bayramov into a save with a header from Luts’ cross.
Paide continued to grow into the contest and began to spend more time around the Zira penalty area. Martin Miller tested the goalkeeper with an effort from the edge of the box, while several dangerous attacks ended without a decisive final pass.
Head coach Tarmo Kink made a series of attacking substitutions in the closing stages, introducing Cham, Henri Anier and Henrik Ojamaa as Paide went in search of a winning goal.
The changes produced the desired result in the 87th minute. A ball from the right was played into the penalty area, Anier helped it on and Cham reacted quickest to send the ball into the net, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.
Zira pushed forward during three minutes of added time, forcing Paide deep into their own half, but the Estonian side defended their lead and held on for a significant victory against Azerbaijani opponent
Paide will now travel to Azerbaijan with a one-goal advantage and genuine belief that they can eliminate Zira and reach the third qualifying round where the winner of Andorra Santa Coloma and Austrian Rapid will await.
Paide Linnameeskond vs Zira – 1-0 (0-0)
Goal: Cham 87′
