Season review: Liechtenstein
Friday, May 25, 2012
Article summary
For the first time since 1997 FC Vaduz will not represent Liechtenstein on the European stage after losing to USV Eschen/Mauren on penalties in the Liechtensteiner Cup final.
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USV Eschen/Mauren poured scorn on their underdog status by pulling off a famous win in the Liechtensteiner Cup final; their first since 1987. 2-0 down and seemingly beaten, Uwe Wegmann's side staged a stirring comeback, before overcoming 40-time winners FC Vaduz 4-2 in the penalty shoot-out despite being down to ten men.
Cup final: FC Vaduz 2-2 USV Eschen/Mauren (Eschen/Mauren win 4-2 on pens)
It looked business as usual when Vaduz, who play in the Swiss second tier, eased ahead with goals either side of half-time. However, Igor Manojlović halved the deficit from the penalty spot and, in the 93rd minute, Eren Dulundu fired in the equaliser. The action continued into extra time, when Martin Rechsteiner was dismissed for Vaduz, and into the shoot-out. Franz Burgmeier and Mariano Tripodi failed to convert, meaning that for the first time since 1997 a different name was engraved on the trophy.
European places
USV Eschen/Mauren - UEFA Europa League, first qualifying round
