Nabil Dirar scored a crucial goal for Fenerbahce as they drew 1-1 against Sturm Graz in a Uefa Europa League third round qualifier.
The Morocco international who recently joined the Turkish outfit from Monaco has endeared himself to the hosts as his goal ensured his side booked a play into the play-off round.
The Super Lig outfit had won 2-1 away in Austria and knew a draw was enough to ensure their qualification. After Mathieu Valbuena had evaded his marker, he sent in a cross to the far post and Dirar powered home from close range to give the host the lead after 32 minutes.
But Franco Foda’s side came out fighting after the interval and drew level through Philipp Huspek six minutes after the hour mark. But the Austrian side could not find the goal - which meant Fener advanced 3-2 on aggregate.
Aykut Kocaman's men face Goztepe at the Doganlar Stadium on August 12 in the opening round of the Turkish topflight.
