IFK Göteborg rescued a crucial away point at the Ghelamco Arena, scoring in the 85th minute to cancel out Gent's lead and finish all square at 1-1 in the first leg of this UEFA Europa Conference League qualifier. The Swedish side were behind for long stretches of the evening, yet held firm enough to strike late and ensure the tie remains entirely undecided heading into the second leg in Gothenburg.

Gent were the better side through much of the contest, playing with the confidence of a Belgian club accustomed to European competition and backed by a vocal home crowd. The hosts pressed with purpose from the first whistle, pinning the visitors back in their own half for extended periods and creating the clearer openings. Their industry produced the breakthrough, and for a considerable spell it appeared as though that single goal would be enough to carry a commanding lead into the return fixture.

IFK Göteborg refused to fold. The Allsvenskan side remained disciplined in their defensive shape and grew steadily into the match as the second half progressed, finding pockets of space and testing the Gent rearguard with increasing frequency. Their patience was rewarded in the 85th minute when they levelled the score, sending the travelling supporters into celebration and simultaneously deflating a Ghelamco Arena that had been preparing to salute a home victory.

The timing of that equaliser carries real weight for what comes next. Gent, who had full control of the tie for the majority of the ninety minutes, now face the return leg in Sweden without any cushion. A lead surrendered in the closing stages is the worst possible outcome for the home side — the psychological advantage has shifted, and IFK Göteborg will step out in front of their own supporters knowing a single goal could prove decisive.

For the broader context: Gent remain a formidable opponent and their quality across the pitch was evident tonight, but failing to protect a lead this late will demand answers from the coaching staff before the second leg. IFK Göteborg, meanwhile, depart Belgium having done exactly what a visiting team needs to do — survive the pressure, stay in the game, and take their moment. The tie is finely balanced, and the second leg in Gothenburg promises to be a tightly contested affair.