“Noblemen” had their first big chance in the 15th minute, when Nemanja Bilbija shot from the penalty area after Mario Tičinović’s cross from the left side, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made an excellent save. The home team had its first chance only in the 41st minute. Nicolo Zaniolo attempted a “scissors” from the edge of the penalty area, and Marko Marić kicks the ball into the corner.
In the second half, Aston Villa had the field initiative, but Krunoslav Rendulić’s team managed to save their net with an excellent and disciplined game in defence until the 5th minute of the additional time. Matty Cash crosses from the right and captain John McGinn scored with a header.
Zrinjski performed with the following line-up: Marko Marić, Josip Ćorluka, Slobodan Jakovljević, Matej Senić, Mario Tičinović (73rd, Kerim Memija), Dario Čanađija (73rd, Damir Zlomislić), Stipe Radić, Aldin Hrvanović (46th, Matija Malekinušić), Antonio Ivančić (62nd, Zvonimir Kožulj), Marijo Ćuže, Nemanja Bilbija (77th, Tomislav Kiš).
In the second match of the group, AZ Alkmaar beat Legia Warsaw 1:0 at home. After two rounds, all teams in the group have 3 points each.
Mostar will play with Legia in the third round. That match will be played on 26th October at 21:00 h at the Bijeli Brijeg Stadium.
PHOTO: HŠK Zrinjski/Facebook
