Aberdeen's hopes of European progression were all but ended as they were held to a 1-1 home draw by Armenian champions FC Noah in the Conference League, leaving the Scottish Cup winners 33rd in the 36-team table with just two points from four matches.
Kevin Nisbet's first goal of the season had given Jimmy Thelin's side a half-time lead in what the manager had described pre-match as a "must-win" fixture, but Nardin Mulahusejnovic's header seven minutes into the second half pegged the Dons back and dramatically reshaped the contest.
Nisbet sparks Pittodrie before the break
After a spectacular pyrotechnic display ahead of kick-off, the match was slow to catch fire, with clear sights of goal at a premium for both sides until Aberdeen sparked into life in the 45th minute.