Elad Madmon celebrated his first goal in European competitions as the 21-year old headed in an important late equaliser at the Alphamega stadium in Limassol to draw 1-1 away to Pafos in the first leg of the Champions League 2nd qualifying round.
Madmon, who was introduced as a mate second half substitute against the Cypriot Champions waited a long time for his goal which couldn’t have come any later.
“I am happy I was able to bring joy to the fans who came from Israel and supported us.”
Madmon, who joined Maccabi in the summer of last year, added: “It’s the best goal I’ve ever scored, period. No need to say more.” Before admitting: “Honestly, the moment is very emotional for me, being able to contribute to the team in such a competition and in such a crucial minute.”
The draw in the first leg keeps Maccabi’s chances of reaching the 3rd qualifying round alive, as Pafos will travel to Backa Topola for next week’s return leg:
“We still haven’t finished the job. We’ll recover from the match, analyze it, see what we can improve, and come more prepared for the next game and try to advance to the next round. I’m happy for the team and that I was able to bring joy to the fans who travelled from Israel, supported us, and showed they’re with us all the way. I hope as many of them as possible come to lift us up in the next game as well.”
Madmon remained confident ahead of the return leg as he summed up: “We are very confident in ourselves. We have an excellent talented team, and I hope we win the next match, God willing.”
