Eventually the pressure had to result in a goal and it finally did when Marko Pentelic scored for Serbia to get the hosts even on terms with Northern Ireland. A first half goal by Northern Ireland had put the visitors ahead and in the first stanza, there was no doubt that if anyone was to be ahead it should be Northern Ireland. The second half brought a match more in line with pregame expectations as Serbia pressured Northern Ireland time and time again.
Serbia Vs. Northern Ireland, Euro 2012 Qualifying: Pantelic Equalizes In Belgrade
In the 63rd minute, Serbia finally got their break through. Milos Ninkovic was played in on the left and cut the ball back across a scrambling Northern Ireland defense. A simple toe poke played the ball on to Pantelic and the Olympiacos forward pounced. He got the ball somewhat under control and while falling to the turf, hit the ball past a helpless goalkeeper for the equalizer.
With the match now even, Northern Ireland will have to find a way to hold onto the point. Serbia have been dominant in the second half and will be on the front foot going for the three points, which any observer has to expect them to get.
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