Red Star Belgrade secured their place in the UEFA Champions League play-offs after a 1-1 draw against Lech Poznań on Tuesday evening, sealing a 4-2 aggregate victory following their 3-1 triumph in the first leg.
Senegalese international forward Pape Chérif Ndiaye delivered the decisive moment, scoring the opening goal of the return leg on what was a landmark night—his 100th appearance for the Serbian giants.
His clinical strike not only set Red Star on the path to qualification but also underlined his pivotal role within the team’s attacking setup.
The match began with Lech Poznań in urgent need of an early breakthrough, but Red Star maintained composure, slowing the tempo and disrupting the Polish side’s rhythm.
Ndiaye, operating with his usual strength and precision in the final third, capitalised on a swift counterattack midway through the first half to put the hosts in front.
The goal was met with rapturous celebrations from the home supporters, recognising both its immediate importance and the milestone it represented for their star striker.
Lech Poznań managed to level the score later in the match, but the equaliser proved to be little more than a consolation. Red Star’s earlier dominance and first-leg advantage meant that the tie was effectively out of the visitors’ reach. The Serbian champions managed the closing stages with discipline, ensuring there was no late drama to threaten their progression.
For Ndiaye, the night carried a double significance. Reaching 100 appearances for Red Star was an achievement in itself, but marking it with such an influential goal in a Champions League qualifier elevated the occasion further.
Since arriving in Belgrade, the Senegalese forward has consistently delivered in key moments, earning admiration from supporters and respect from opponents.
Head coach Barak Bachar praised Ndiaye’s leadership and composure, highlighting how the forward’s mentality has been central to Red Star’s recent successes.
“Pape Chérif always delivers when it matters,” Bachar noted. “Tonight was another example of his quality and his commitment to the team.”
The victory keeps alive Red Star’s ambition of reaching the group stage of Europe’s most prestigious club competition, a target that carries both sporting and financial significance.
The Serbian side will now face a two-legged play-off against their next opponent, with hopes high that they can secure a return to the Champions League group phase.
For Ndiaye and his teammates, attention now turns to preparing for what promises to be a challenging final hurdle.
The Senegalese striker’s form will be crucial, as his physical presence, finishing ability, and knack for delivering in high-pressure moments continue to make him one of Red Star’s most valuable assets.
With momentum on their side and the backing of a passionate fan base, Red Star Belgrade stand just two matches away from booking their place among Europe’s elite.
And if recent history is any indication, Pape Chérif Ndiaye will be at the heart of their push to cross the finish line.