Noah Delivers Proud Night in Yerevan, Stuns AZ Alkmaar in Conference League Play-Off

Armenian champions Noah secured an important home victory in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League qualifying play-off round.

The match took place at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium in Yerevan, where Noah hosted Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. It was a tense and competitive game, with both teams showing different styles of play throughout the evening.

In the first half, AZ Alkmaar controlled most of the possession and tried to dictate the tempo of the match. The visitors pushed forward and looked to create chances through patient build-up play. Noah, however, focused on defending carefully and waiting for opportunities to counterattack. Despite having less of the ball, the Armenian side managed to launch several quick attacks that caused serious problems for the Dutch defenders and goalkeeper.

The second half saw a shift in momentum. Noah continued to rely on speed in transition and eventually managed to break through. The decisive moment came when team captain Hovhannes Hambardzumyan scored with a powerful long-range shot. His strike gave Noah a 1–0 lead and brought excitement to the home crowd.

After taking the lead, Noah remained organized at the back and protected their advantage until the final whistle. AZ Alkmaar tried to respond, but the Armenian champions held firm and secured a narrow but valuable win.

The final score of the first leg was Noah 1, AZ Alkmaar 0.

The return match will take place one week later in Alkmaar, where AZ Alkmaar will host Noah in the decisive second leg.

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