Inverness defender Danny Devine is confident his team has every chance of overturning their Europa League deficit against Astra in Romania.
Caley Thistle had good spells of possession and created a handful of half chances on their European debut, but lost 1-0 after debutant goalkeeper Owain Fon Williams failed to keep out a Constantin Budescu free kick.
Inverness have a good away record in Scotland and Devine believes they can cause an upset, which could set up a likely third-round match against West Ham, who are 1-0 up on Maltese opponents Birkirkara following a late winner at Upton Park.
Devine, who started the game in central defence, said: “Going by the first game, we are going into next week pretty positive.
“We more than held our own against a good side, but I wouldn’t say they are anything special.
“We are going in next Thursday with every chance of qualifying.
“We started off well, our tempo was good, and kept the ball well. I felt comfortable throughout the game.
“Their game plan was to sit off, try to nick the ball and hit us on the counter-attack.
“We were positive and I think we gave a good account of ourselves.
“We just lacked a cutting edge in the final third but I’m sure that will come sooner rather than later.”
Another positive for Inverness was the return of captain Richie Foran following a 16-month absence.
The 35-year-old came on as a late substitute after finally making significant progress after a knee problem.
“It’s a great positive to have Richie back,” Devine said. “He’s a real leader on and off the pitch.
“Just to have his presence in and around the changing room, on the bench, or on the pitch, it gives us a great boost.
“Hopefully he will get back to full fitness and get that sharpness back and help the team this year.”