Gambian youngster Alasana Yirajang delivered a heroic performance as FK Železiarne Podbrezová staged a sensational comeback to defeat FC Košice 5-4 on penalties in the Slovak Nike League Europa Conference League playoff semi-final on Sunday.

Košice looked firmly in control early on, racing to a 2-0 lead in front of their home crowd. But it was Yirajang who sparked Podbrezová’s resurgence, pulling one back with a screamer from 20 yards in the first half to give his side hope.

The 19-year-old midfielder continued to shine in the second half, delivering a sumptuous assist to set up the equaliser, leveling the match at 2-2 by the end of regulation time. Neither side could find a winner in extra time, sending the match to a dramatic penalty shootout.

Podbrezová kept their cool from the spot, converting all five penalties while Košice missed one, sealing a 5-4 shootout victory and a place in the playoff final.

They will now face DAC 1904 Dunajská Streda, featuring fellow Gambian Mahmudu Bajo, in a decisive clash for a spot in next season’s UEFA Europa Conference League.

Yirajang’s dazzling display has earned widespread acclaim, as he continues to emerge as one of the most exciting young talents in Slovak football.

By Ebrima KB Sonko