Bekhruz Karimov Makes Conference League Debut for Lugano

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan national team defender Bekhruz Karimov made his UEFA Conference League debut for Swiss club Lugano in the second leg of their playoff against Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The 19-year-old came on as a substitute in the 82nd minute on 27 August at Batumi Arena in Georgia, replacing Renato Steffen. The match ended 1-1, allowing Lugano to preserve its advantage from the first leg, which the Swiss club won 2-1. Lugano advanced to the league phase with a 3-2 aggregate victory.

The first half of the second leg ended goalless. Maccabi Tel Aviv then had an opportunity to take the lead after Lugano defender Mattia Zanotti was sent off for a second yellow card in the 58th minute.

Dore Peretz converted a penalty in the 69th minute to put the hosts ahead. Lugano, despite playing with 10 men, equalized 10 minutes later. In the 79th minute, Derek Moncada scored after receiving a pass from Yannis Cimignani.

Karimov entered the match in the closing stages, replacing Steffen. His appearance marked his debut in the Conference League.

Lugano will continue its campaign in the league phase of the tournament. The Swiss club’s opponent will be determined by the draw. Maccabi Tel Aviv has been eliminated from the Conference League.