Hamrun Spartans made history in Bulgaria, becoming the first Maltese club to reach the play-off stage of the Europa Confernce League after beating Levski Sophia in a penalty shoot-out.
After losing the first leg of their third round tie at the Centenary Stadium, Hamrun needed to win by two goals to reach the next stage of the competition.
Despite constant pressure by Sophia, it was Hamrun who went in front late in the second half, Matthew Guillaumier needing two touches to beat keeper Mihaylov.
Wanderson Tsunami levelled the game in extra time to put Sofia on top in the tie but moments later, Ryan Camenzuli scored to put Hamrun in front for a second time.
In extra time both sides created chances but with the aggregate score still level after 120 minutes, the match went to penalties.
Henry Bonello was Hamrun’s hero saving two penalties and the decisive spot kick fell to Matteo Fedele. His shot was saved but match officials ordered the penalty to be retaken as the Sofia keeper had come off his line. Fedele kept his nerve and his strike sent Hamrun into the play-off stage of the Europa Conference League.
A first for a Maltese club.
