A goal and an assist from Socceroo Milos Degenek has sealed Red Star Belgrade's spot in the Champions League group stages after they came from behind to claim a 2-2 draw against Salzburg.
After a goalless stalemate at home in the first leg, Degenek's side conceded two goals before a pin-point cross from the Australian defender and resulting finish from El Fardou Ben Nabouhane handed Belgrade a lifeline in the 65th minute.
Just one minute later, the 24-year-old went from provider to scorer as his well-placed header looped over the goal line and ultimately ensured Red Star progressed on away goals.
No Serbian side has ever competed in the rebranded Champions League tournament, with Belgrade's last appearance in Europe's top-flight competition coming in 1992 when it was known as the European Cup.
Red Star in fact won the tournament in 1991 but has since struggled to live up to those heights and now have an Aussie to thank as they begin to stand tall once more.
At full-time, fans flocked the pitch as their long-held Champions League dream became a reality.
Degenek only joined the club after the World Cup having sealed a move from Japanese side Yokohama F.Marinos, where he was working under former Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou.
It was more good news for Australians this morning as Trent Sainsbury's PSV also sealed their place in the Champions League courtesy of a 3-0 win over BATE, which saw them triumph 6-2 on aggregate.
Sainsbury, who made the move to the Netherlands earlier this month, is yet to make his debut for the club but faces the prospect of Champions League football once he does establish himself.
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