Ghanaian midfielder Amankwah Forson scored for Hapoel Be’er Sheva, but his effort was not enough to prevent a 2-1 defeat against AZ Alkmaar in their UEFA Europa League encounter at the AFAS Stadion.
The match came alive after a goalless first half, with both teams producing an entertaining contest in the second period.
AZ Alkmaar broke the deadlock in the 49th minute when Peer Koopmeiners finished from close range after receiving a pass from Victor Byskov.
Hapoel Be’er Sheva responded swiftly, with Forson restoring parity just six minutes later. The Ghana international showed composure inside the penalty area to convert a pass from Z. Ahmed in the 55th minute, drawing the visitors level at 1-1.
The equaliser offered the Israeli side renewed hope of securing a positive result away from home, with Forson demonstrating his ability to make an impact in the attacking third.
However, AZ Alkmaar regained the lead in the 77th minute after Bendegúz Kovács won a penalty following a challenge by Djibril Diop inside the box.
Mexx Meerdink stepped up and converted the spot-kick to put the Dutch side ahead for the second time in the encounter.
Forson continued to push for another equaliser, forcing a save from the AZ goalkeeper in the 81st minute as Hapoel Be’er Sheva searched for a way back into the contest.
Despite their late efforts, the visitors could not find another goal, allowing AZ Alkmaar to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
For Forson, the goal was a personal bright spot in a disappointing result for his team. The Ghanaian midfielder will hope to build on his scoring contribution as Hapoel Be’er Sheva turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures.
