February 20, 2026 00:54
Samsunspor Defeats Shkendija 1-0 in UEFA Conference League Play-Off First Leg
Samsunspor secured a crucial victory in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League Play-Off tie, defeating Shkendija 1-0 away from home. The result puts the Turkish side in a strong position as they head into the return leg with a chance to reach the competition’s Round of 16.
The match in North Macedonia saw Samsunspor overcome a first-half penalty miss to claim the win. Cherif Ndiaye was unable to convert from the spot in the 6th minute.
Marius Mouandilmadji scored the decisive goal for Samsunspor in the 77th minute, finishing off a move started by Carlo Holse. The goal gives Samsunspor a narrow advantage heading back to Turkey.
The second leg, which will determine who advances to the Conference League’s last 16, is scheduled for February 26th in Samsun. This victory marks an important step for Samsunspor in their European campaign.
Domestically, Karadeniz ekibi (the Black Sea team) will travel to face Fatih Karagümrük in league action. Shkendija, meanwhile, will host Sileks.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
In the 6th minute, Ndiaye’s penalty kick sailed over the crossbar.
The 17th minute saw a dangerous attempt from Tampa for Shkendija, but goalkeeper Okan Kocuk made a difficult save.
Holse nearly put Samsunspor ahead in the 23rd minute, with his shot narrowly missing the right post.
Makoumbou set up Holse for another scoring opportunity in the 39th minute, but the shot went just over the bar.
Besart Ibraimi created a chance for Shkendija in the 51st minute, but his shot went wide.
Okan Kocuk was called into action again in the 54th minute, denying Assoumou’s attempt.
In the 66th minute, Gaye made a crucial save to deny Ndiaye’s header.
Mouandilmadji’s goal came in the 77th minute, capitalizing on a right-sided cross from Holse.
Mouandilmadji had another chance in the 88th minute, but his shot went wide.
STARTING LINEUPS
Shkendija: Gaye, Murati, Fetai, Meliqi, Webster, Ramadani, Alhassan, Tamba, Zejnullai, Spahiu, Ibraimi
Samsunspor: Okan Kocuk, Zeki, Satka, Van Drongelen, Tomasson, Makoumbou, Ntcham, Mendes, Holse, Assoumou, Ndiaye
