St Patrick’s Athletic Estonia comeback sets up Besiktas tie
St Patrick’s Athletic pulled off an incredible European comeback in Estonia to book a Europa Conference League third-round showdown with Turkish giants Besiktas. After leading 1-0 from the first leg, the Saints faced a scare when Nõmme Kalju struck twice once before and once after halftime—flipping the tie on its head. Just when things looked bleak, captain Joe Redmond delivered a dramatic injury-time equaliser to force extra-time. Then, within three minutes of the restart, Jake Mulraney gave Pat’s a 3-2 aggregate lead they would not surrender.
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First-Half Struggles and Missed Chances
The night began with promise for St Pat’s, who had impressed in the home leg. Mulraney, starting in place of the injured Zack Elbouzedi, looked sharp early, forcing a save in the fifth minute and swinging in several dangerous crosses. Despite their positive play, Pat’s couldn’t break through, and Kalju grew into the game. A defensive lapse just before halftime allowed Ivan Patrikejevs to put the hosts ahead, capitalizing on a smart move and a square pass from Kristjan Kask.
Kalju’s Second Goal Rattles the Saints
Things worsened after the break as another Ivanov delivery led to a header from Mattias Mannilaan, making it 2-0 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate. With injuries piling up—Mason Melia was subbed at halftime and Aidan Keena limped off—Pat’s looked in trouble. Despite strong performances from substitutes like Brandon Kavanagh and Chris Forrester, chances went begging until Redmond’s late goal gave the Saints new life.
Extra-Time Glory in the Rain
Shortly into extra-time, Mulraney—who had worked tirelessly all game—floated in what seemed a wayward cross, but it found the net, pushing Pat’s ahead 3-2 over two legs. As rain poured down and the pitch worsened, both teams struggled. With five minutes left, Anto Breslin conceded a dangerous free-kick, but keeper Joseph Anang came up big, saving the shot and preserving the lead.
Looking Ahead to Besiktas
This gritty win not only salvaged a European run for the Dubliners but injected fresh energy into a tough domestic campaign. The Saints now turn their focus to Waterford this weekend before a massive tie with Besiktas that promises glamour and challenge alike.
