FC Porto edged past FK Crvena Zvezda 2-1 in a dramatic UEFA Europa League night at the Estádio do Dragão, as Rodrigo Mora’s 89th-minute finish broke Serbian resistance, sending the home crowd into rapture and keeping the Portuguese side’s European campaign on track.

Porto made an electric start, setting the tempo early. The breakthrough arrived inside eight minutes, as William Gomes coolly converted from the penalty spot after Tebo Uchenna was adjudged to have fouled Deniz Gül—a decision that set the tone for Porto’s enterprising first half. The penalty was a product of Porto’s attacking intent, with Gül’s driving run through the box forcing a clumsy challenge and leaving little doubt for the referee.

Crvena Zvezda, unfazed by the early setback, began to assert themselves midway through the half. Their equalizer came in the 32nd minute when Vasilije Kostov capitalized on a rare defensive lapse, slotting home to silence the Dragão and reward the visitors' resilience. The goal was a culmination of growing Zvezda pressure, with Mirko Ivanic and Milson both threatening in quick succession.

The balance of play in the second half saw both sides create opportunities, but it was Porto who continued to probe with greater menace. Borja Sainz and Zaidu Sanusi launched speculative efforts, while Pepê’s influence in midfield became increasingly apparent as the hosts pushed for a winner.

It was deep into the 89th minute when Porto’s persistence paid dividends. Pepê, orchestrating a rapid counter-attack, slipped a perfect ball toward Rodrigo Mora, who made no mistake with a powerful left-footed finish from the center of the box, restoring Porto’s advantage. Mora’s strike punctuated a frenetic finale and highlighted Porto’s attacking depth.

Crvena Zvezda fought gamely in stoppage time, but Porto’s defensive discipline held firm, seeing out the win in front of jubilant home supporters.

Key moments:

• William Gomes (8’, pen) opened the scoring for Porto after Gül won a penalty.
• Vasilije Kostov (32’) equalized for Crvena Zvezda.
• Rodrigo Mora (89’) secured victory for Porto following a swift break, assisted by Pepê.

Implications: The result keeps Porto well positioned in the Europa League group stage, while Crvena Zvezda’s spirited display underlines their potential to trouble any side in the group. For Porto manager Francesco Farioli, the late tactical tweaks and attacking substitutions paid off, maintaining his perfect start to European competition this season.

For extended highlights and match reaction, several YouTube recap videos are expected to capture the key moments and crowd atmosphere from one of the night’s most riveting group stage encounters.