en

 

Sport
13 November, 2026 / 23:14
/ 1 hour ago

Moldova's national football team defeats Kazakhstan in Chisinau, strengthens chances of finishing second in group

Moldova’s national football team secured a valuable victory at the Zimbru Stadium, defeating Kazakhstan 2-1 in front of 7,000 spectators. The man of the match was Petru Popescu, the Petrocub Hancesti striker, who scored both goals.

Having arrived in Chisinau determined to avenge their home defeat, the Kazakh side was thoroughly dominated in the first half. The Moldovan footballers’ attacking play was rewarded with an outstanding effort from Petru Popescu, who opened the scoring with a spectacular goal from approximately 30 meters.

The second half brought a more aggressive response on behalf of the visitors. Returning from the dressing room with greater motivation, Kazakhstan equalized in the 51st minute through Cesnakov. He shot from 25 meters, and the ball took an unpredictable bounce right in front of goalkeeper Dumitru Celeadnic, making it 1-1.

Head coach Lilian Popescu made a string of inspired tactical changes that injected fresh energy into the team and turned the match in Moldova’s favor. On the 77th minute, substitute Nichita Motpan delivered an excellent cross from the right, and Petru Popescu finished decisively, completing his brace and putting Moldova ahead 2-1.

Until the final whistle, the Moldovan football team controlled possession confidently, managed their lead and secured three valuable points.

Following this success and according to the current standings, Moldova’s national team has collected 7 points and keeps the best chance of finishing second in the group.