FC Vardar Skopje Stun Riga FC 2–1 in UEFA Europa Conference League First Qualifying Round

FC Vardar Skopje pulled off an impressive away victory in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Europa Conference League, beating Riga FC 2–1 at the Skonto Stadium on 29 July 2026. The Macedonian side overturned an early deficit to take a crucial lead into the second leg.

Match Summary

Riga FC started brightly and took the lead in the 14th minute when forward Jānis Ozols finished a swift counter‑attack with a composed left‑footed strike. The home crowd expected Riga to build on that momentum, but Vardar gradually grew into the match.

The visitors equalised in the 33rd minute through a well‑struck free‑kick from midfielder Stefan Ristovski, bending the ball over the wall and just inside the post. The goal shifted the momentum, and Vardar began to control midfield possession.

Second Half Drama

Riga pushed forward after the restart but lacked precision in the final third. Vardar’s disciplined defensive shape frustrated the hosts, and in the 67th minute, they struck again. A quick break down the left flank saw winger Marko Gjorgjiev square the ball to substitute Petar Atanasov, who tapped in from close range to make it 2–1.

Riga pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, hitting the crossbar once, but Vardar held firm. The win places Vardar in a strong position ahead of the second leg in Skopje.

Standout Players

• Stefan Ristovski (Vardar) – scored a superb equaliser and dictated play from midfield.
• Petar Atanasov (Vardar) – came off the bench to score the winning goal.
• Jānis Ozols (Riga) – gave his side an early lead but lacked support.

Looking Ahead

FC Vardar Skopje will take a one‑goal advantage back to North Macedonia for the second leg. Riga FC will need to win by at least two goals to advance. The tie remains open, but Vardar’s away goals could prove decisive. The second leg is scheduled for 5 August 2026.