The UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round served up a gripping encounter on July 16, 2026, as Montenegrin side Decic Tuzi hosted Latvian club FK Liepaja. In a match that swung on fine margins and clinical finishing, the visitors walked away with a 2-1 victory, putting them in a strong position ahead of the second leg.

First‑Half Drama and an Early Breakthrough

FK Liepaja started brightly, pressing high and forcing Decic into early mistakes. Their reward came in the 23rd minute when a well‑worked corner routine found an unmarked Markuss Kļaviņš at the near post, whose flicked header gave the home goalkeeper no chance. Decic Tuzi responded with increased urgency, and just before the half‑hour mark they equalised through a spectacular long‑range strike from Miloš Rakočević, who curled the ball into the top corner from 25 yards.

Second‑Half Tactical Shift and the Winning Goal

With the scores level at the break, both managers made adjustments. Decic began to dominate possession, but Liepaja remained dangerous on the counter‑attack. The decisive moment arrived in the 68th minute: a rapid transition saw Dāvis Ikaunieks slip a pass through the Decic defence, and Rihards Ozoliņš swept the ball home first‑time to restore the visitors’ lead. Decic pushed hard for a second equaliser but found the Liepaja backline resolute, with goalkeeper Vjačeslavs Kudrjavcevs making two vital saves in the closing stages.

Standout Performers

• Rihards Ozoliņš (Liepaja) – scored the winning goal and was a constant threat with his movement.
• Miloš Rakočević (Decic Tuzi) – provided a moment of magic with his equaliser and worked tirelessly in midfield.
• Vjačeslavs Kudrjavcevs (Liepaja) – produced crucial stops to preserve the lead.

Match Impact and Next Steps

FK Liepaja’s 2‑1 away victory gives them a clear advantage heading into the return leg in Latvia. Decic Tuzi will rue missed chances but remain in the tie thanks to the away goal. The second leg, scheduled for July 23, promises to be a tense affair as Decic need to win by at least two goals to progress.