Ngezana’s FCSB Takes First-Leg Advantage Despite Early Substitution
Siyabonga Ngezana’s FCSB secured a 2-1 advantage in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League playoff against PAOK at Toumba Stadium on Thursday.
However, the former Kaizer Chiefs defender’s contribution was cut short after he was substituted at halftime following a yellow card for an off-the-ball incident.
Despite the loss, PAOK struck first in the 21st minute when Tanzanian international Mbwana Samatta side-footed the ball past FCSB goalkeeper Ștefan Târnovanu after being left unmarked from a cross. PAOK’s early dominance and home advantage made this a deserved lead, as they stifled the visitors’ attempts to create scoring opportunities.
Samatta nearly doubled PAOK’s lead in the 34th minute, tapping into an empty net after a quick break. However, the goal was disallowed as he was deemed to be offside.
On the stroke of halftime, drama ensued when PAOK’s Taison was sent off for dissent after appealing for a foul by Ngezana. The incident also resulted in Ngezana receiving a yellow card. This left the Greek side with a one-goal lead but down a man heading into the second half.
Due to the yellow card, Ngezana was substituted at halftime by FCSB coach Ilias Charalampous. Cameroonian defender Joyskim Aurélien Dawa replaced Ngezana, likely to avoid the risk of a second yellow card.
FCSB quickly capitalized on their numerical advantage, equalizing in the 50th minute when Andrei Cosmin Gheorghiță’s left-footed strike deflected into the net. Ten minutes later, Dawa, the substitute who replaced Ngezana, headed in a powerful effort, giving FCSB a 2-1 lead and the previous victory.
The second leg will take place in seven days at Arena Națională in Bucharest.
FCSB entered the Europa League playoffs after finishing 12th in the Europa League phase and subsequently losing 2-0 to Manchester United in the last game, placing them outside the top eight.
Their league position dictated that the first leg would be played away and the second leg at home. With their away win, FCSB now holds a significant advantage and controls its own destiny in this tie.
