Ararat-Armenia edges past Craiova in Europa League playoff

FC Ararat-Armenia broke the deadlock in the first half to secure a 1-0 victory over Universitatea Craiova in this Europa League playoff round tie. The hosts controlled proceedings and found the breakthrough before the interval, establishing a lead they would protect through the second period.

Craiova offered resistance but could not find an equaliser. Nicolas Bancu picked up a yellow card in the 48th minute as the visitors' frustration grew, but they failed to threaten sufficiently to trouble the Armenian side's defence. The away team created few clear openings and never seriously tested the home goalkeeper.

FC Ararat-Armenia managed the match with composure as regulation time wore on. Their lead proved sufficient, and the visitors departed empty-handed. The home side's disciplined approach in defence ensured they saw out the 90 minutes without alarm. Universitatea Craiova's yellow card to N. Bancu in the 48th minute reflected a tense atmosphere, though the match remained controlled rather than fractious.