Astana coach Stoilov delighted with Benfica draw

Stoilov's Astana played out a 2-2 draw with Benfica, who rallied from two goals down in the Group C encounter.

Patrick Twumasi and Marin Anicic put the Kazakhs in control the half-hour mark before Mexico international Raul Jimenez netted twice to help the Portuguese champions draw level away from home.

Despite giving up a two-goal advantage, Stoilov was proud of the performance, which he felt proved they were worthy of a place in the elite competition, despite languishing at the foot of the group.

"I think today was a really good performance from us," he said.

"We scored goals and did everything we could to win, though we're disappointed not to have scored a third to secure the victory.

"However, even if we had lost I would have been happy because the team showed they can play football at the highest European level."

Winless Astana remain bottom of Group C but maintain hopes of securing a Europa League spot by closing the gap on third-placed Galatasaray to one point heading into the final matchday next month.