Victoria Plzen Stages Dramatic Comeback to Eliminate Red Star Belgrade from Europa League

On August 27, 2026, Victoria Plzen overturned a 0-3 first-leg deficit to defeat Red Star Belgrade 5-4 on aggregate in the Europa League playoff round, securing their place in the competition and sending the Serbian champions to the Conference League. The second leg saw an intense match in which Plzen scored early through Prince Adu, but Mirko Ivanić quickly responded for Red Star, making the aggregate score 4-1. The turning point came in the second half when Red Star’s Osman Bukari was sent off with a direct red card in the 53rd minute, reducing them to ten men.

Victoria Plzen capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Denis Vysinsky converting a penalty in the 58th minute and Patrick Hrošovský adding another goal shortly after. The drama peaked in stoppage time when Christopher Kabongo scored a decisive penalty in the 95th minute to level the aggregate at 4-4 and force extra time. In the 96th minute of extra time, Kabongo assisted David Krčík’s header, which crossed the line despite the goalkeeper’s efforts, completing the comeback.

Red Star had already faced disappointment earlier this summer after being eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers by Hapoel Be'er Sheva, leading to the resignation of coach Dejan Stanković and the appointment of Albert Riera. The absence of Mohamed Abu Fani, serving a suspension from a previous red card, and the non-participation of Louizos Louizo were notable for Red Star in this match. Victoria Plzen’s victory marks their entry into the Europa League group stage, while Red Star will now compete in the Conference League.

The match was a memorable and painful setback for Red Star, highlighting a summer of challenges for the Serbian club.