Yerevan, Armenia — AZ Alkmaar snatched a dramatic victory in the dying moments of the match as Kees Smit converted in the 97th minute to secure three points in Conference League play at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium.
FC Noah endured a frustrating evening despite matching their Dutch opponents in attacking output. The Armenian side had three goals ruled out across the first half, with Gustavo Sangaré (29'), Nardin Mulahusejnovic (44'), and Hovhannes Hambardzumyan (53') all finding the net only to see their efforts disallowed.
AZ controlled possession throughout, holding the ball for over 70% of the match, but struggled to convert their territorial advantage into clear chances. Noah actually outshot the visitors 13-9 and matched them with four shots on target to AZ's three, demonstrating their ability to threaten on the counter despite limited possession.
The match appeared destined for a goalless draw until deep into stoppage time, when Smit finally broke Noah's resistance with virtually the last kick of the game.
GOALS:- 90'+7' Kees Smit - AZ Alkmaar
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- FC Noah: Hovhannes Hambardzumyan - Disallowed goal, solid defensive work- AZ Alkmaar: Kees Smit - Match-winning goal in 97th minute
KEY STAT: FC Noah outshot AZ Alkmaar 13-9 despite controlling just 29.7% possession, demonstrating effective counter-attacking play.