Barco emerges as key figure in Strasbourgs tense victory over Rijeka to advance in Conference League

Similar to the initial match Strasbourg took control early on generating numerous scoring opportunities.

Abdoul Ouattara nearly scored twice before the fifteenth minute yet missed the target each time initially sending a effort just beyond the upright then slicing another attempt astray.

Although Gary O’Neils team appeared in command they suffered a surprise blow around the midpoint of the opening half as Rijeka sliced through their defence effortlessly. A composed build up play ended with Amer Gojak driving to the line and his pull back was finished emphatically by Toni Fruk marking his fifth strike across the last six outings.

Julio Enciso created moments following Strasbourgs deficit however the home team entered the break frustrated by their initial showing and the overall contest hung in balance after their prior 2-1 advantage evaporated.

The Ligue 1 outfit responded aggressively post interval netting early yet Joaquim Panichelli strayed offside in heading the effort home.

The forward for Strasbourg was warming to the task and gained a further chance to draw level around the sixtieth minute though he failed to meet Ismael Doukoures delivery into the penalty area cleanly.

As the clock ticked down Strasbourg pressed relentlessly with Sebastian Nanasi firing a strike just above the crossbar from distance.

The relentless assault by Le Racing paid dividends with roughly fifteen minutes left as Nanasi displayed fine skill to find room within the six yard box and his clipped delivery across goal was deftly converted at the near post by Valentin Barco.

This strike ultimately secured the overall triumph for O’Neils squad paving the way for a last eight encounter versus Mainz whereas Rijekas remarkable journey concludes here.