MINSK, 15 February (BelTA) - Stanislav Dragun headed Igor Stasevich's free-kick for the game's only goal just before half-time as BATE Borisov edged London's Arsenal 1-0 in the home first leg of the Europa League round of 32 on 14 February, BelTA has learned.
The guests seized the initiative from the early start of the game and within the first five minutes were able to create scoring chances twice at Denis Shcherbitsky's net. The Borisov team gradually settled in and managed to carry out a few sharp counterattacks, all of which were denied by the Gunners' experienced goalkeeper Petr Cech.
Arsenal players controlled the game almost throughout the first half, but in the 44th minute they missed a ball. The hosts received the right for a free-kick, which was performed by BATE captain Igor Stasevich. His free-kick from the right found the head of Dragun, who had evaded marker Sead Kolasinac and powered a header beyond Petr Cech.
In the second half, Borisov came under a bunch of attacks from Arsenal, but stood strong to keep the advantage.
After the game, BATE head coach Aleksei Baga said that his players had a hard time, but managed to beat more experienced rivals. The coach added that this was just the first match, and the second leg in a week will decide on who progresses into last 16.
BATE meet Arsenal for the second leg at Emirates Stadium next Thursday.
Photos by Andrei Pokumeiko and Denis Kostyuchenko
