News & Events in Belarus

MINSK, 1 October (BelTA) – FC BATE Borisov bounced back from the 6-0 opening loss against FC Porto to beat Athletic 2-1 and take the second spot in UEFA Champions League Group H, BelTA has learned.

BATE Borisov vs. Athletic (IN PICTURES)

Goals from Denis Polyakov and Alexander Karnitski gave the hosts victory in the first UEFA Champions League game at the Borisov Arena.

Aritz Aduriz pulled one back for the Spanish team in the last minute of the first half.

After the break the teams had chances to change the score but goalkeepers and defense on both the sides were strong enough to keep the ball away from the net.

In a post-game conference BATE coach Alexander Yermakovich noted that he told his men ahead of the game to focus on defense and seize the moment in counterattacks. This plan worked hundred per cent and the Borisov team earned their first three points this season. The BATE coach expressed gratitude to fans who with their great support helped the team to this first very much needed victory at the new home stadium.

Elsewhere, FC Shakhtar Donetsk drew with FC Porto 2-2 in Lviv.

The Group H standings are as follows: FC Porto – 4 points, BATE Borisov – 3, FC Shakhtar Donetsk – 2, Athletic – 1.

The next games in Group H are scheduled for 21 October: BATE Borisov take on FC Shakhtar Donetsk, while FC Porto face Athletic.