McCarthy scores first Sabah FK goal in UEFA Champions League defeat by Borussia Dortmund

Former Kaizer Chiefs player Aden McCarthy scored his first goal for Sabah FK, but it was not enough to prevent a 2-1 defeat by Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old started his third successive Champions League match and made a significant contribution as the Azerbaijani champions continued their historic first campaign in the competition.

McCarthy headed Sabah FK level in the 39th minute after Serhou Guirassy had given Dortmund an early lead. The forward struck after 10 minutes, but Sabah FK responded strongly to ensure they were not overwhelmed by the Bundesliga side.

The equaliser was McCarthy’s first goal since joining the club and capped an impressive personal moment in only his third consecutive Champions League appearance.

Dortmund regained the advantage eight minutes after half-time, with Guirassy scoring again in the 53rd minute. It was his 23rd goal in the competition.

Sabah FK had limited opportunities to draw level for a second time, while Dortmund’s failure to take several chances allowed the match to remain competitive during the final stages.

The German club eventually held on to claim three points and record their second victory in this season’s competition. Sabah FK stayed on three points from their opening campaign in the Champions League.

Despite the defeat, the Azerbaijani champions have already made history by reaching the league phase after progressing through all four qualifying rounds.