Ararat-Armenia to host Sparta Prague in historic Europa League debut

Ararat-Armenia is set to make history as the first Armenian club to compete in the main phase of the Europa League. The Armenian champions will host Sparta Prague at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium on Wednesday, September 16.

Managed by Manuel Tulipa, Ararat-Armenia secured their place in the competition after navigating a difficult qualification path, which included victories over Riga, Shamrock Rovers, and Celje, and overcoming Universitatea Craiova in the playoffs. Due to their own stadium not meeting UEFA requirements, they will play their European home matches at the Republican Stadium.

Sparta Prague enters the match after dropping into the Europa League following their exit from Champions League qualifying against Lyon. The Czech side will look to build on recent domestic form, while Ararat-Armenia aims to leverage their strong home record in continental competitions to secure a historic result.