Europa League: Balkovec punishes Celta in the 88th minute, seven matches without a win

Despite having more possession and creating more chances, with 19 shots compared to 11 and ten corners to three, the Spanish side failed to convert their dominance into goals, while Omonia’s goalkeeper, Fabiano, made four crucial saves.

The Galicians thought they had taken the lead in the 70th minute when Pablo Durán found the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed due to Williot Swedberg being offside in the build-up. Omonia had already threatened before halftime, notably with a shot from Jean-Kévin Duverne that hit the post.

As the match appeared to be heading for a draw, Balkovec seized an opportunity on the left flank, advanced, and unleashed a shot that beat Ionuț Radu. The Slovenian full-back thus delivered Omonia’s first victory in the main phase of the Europa League since 2020.

Celta remains winless after their first six Liga matches, with four draws and two losses, and this European defeat adds to their challenging start to the season. In their next Europa League match, the Spanish club will host Juventus on October 15, while Omonia will travel to Celje on the same day.