Iberia’s win over Larne ends 22-year wait for Georgian football club in European group stage

A Georgian football club will compete in the group stage of a European competition for the first time in 22 years after Tbilisi-based Iberia secured qualification for the UEFA Conference League league phase.

Iberia Tbilisi defeated Northern Irish side Larne 2-1 in the second leg of the UEFA Europa League third qualifying round, earning a place in the main stage of the UEFA Conference League.

The historic achievement marks the return of a Georgian team to the group stage of a European tournament after a 22-year absence.

By reaching the Conference League league phase, Iberia has guaranteed participation in European group-stage football this season and will now compete against clubs from across the continent.