Emmanuel Boateng struck twice as Hapoel Tel Aviv clinched a place in the next qualifying round of the UEFA Europa Conference League with a 4-2 aggregate win over Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad.
The Ghanaian forward, 28, scored both of Hapoel’s goals in a 2-2 draw away from home in the second leg, ensuring the Israeli club protected the 2-0 advantage they had built in the first meeting.
Hapoel travelled to Bulgaria in control of the tie after that first-leg victory, but faced a far sterner examination from Ludogorets, who needed to overturn a two-goal deficit to keep their European hopes alive.
Boateng decisive in tense second leg
With the hosts pressing to get back into the tie, Boateng’s composure in front of goal proved decisive as he twice found the net to keep Hapoel in command on aggregate.
His double meant that, despite Ludogorets forcing a draw on the night, they were unable to significantly cut into Hapoel’s overall lead, and the Israeli side progressed with room to spare over the two legs.
The brace underlined Boateng’s growing influence in Hapoel’s attack at the start of the new season, as he continues to establish himself as a key figure in their bid to reach the league phase of the competition.
Strong start to campaign for Ghanaian forward
Boateng’s form in front of goal has been a major positive for Hapoel in the early weeks of the campaign, with his performance against the Bulgarian champions further reinforcing his status as one of the team’s main attacking threats.
His contribution over the tie not only secured progression but also offered encouragement that Hapoel have the firepower to compete in the remaining qualifying rounds.
Focus turns to next qualifying round
With their place in the next stage confirmed, Hapoel will now prepare for a step up in intensity as they move closer to the Europa Conference League league phase.
Boateng will aim to sustain his scoring streak as Hapoel continue their European journey, with the club hopeful that his current form can carry them through the upcoming challenges in qualifying.
