FC košice Faces Uphill Battle in Conference League Qualifier After First-Leg Defeat
FC Košice is preparing for a challenging second leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifier against Neman Grodno, following a narrow 1-0 defeat in the opening match.Despite a strong performance in the first half, where they showcased their potential, the slovakian side ultimately fell short.
Home Advantage Symbolic as Neman Grodno Plays on Neutral ground
The return leg, scheduled for next Thursday at 8:00 PM, will be played on neutral territory in Szeged, Hungary. This is due to UEFA regulations that prevent Belarusian clubs from hosting European matches in their home country amidst the ongoing conflict in ukraine. While FC Košice enjoyed a passionate home crowd of over 10,000 supporters in their first leg, the upcoming match will lack the familiar roar of their home fans.
Goalkeeper expresses Gratitude for fan Support, Looks Ahead to Rematch
FC Košice goalkeeper David Šípoš expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the home crowd, acknowledging that many fans attended primarily to support their team rather than out of deep knowledge of the opponent. He remains optimistic about the team’s chances in the second leg, stating, “The retaliation will be 50 to 50, the score is minus 1 against us, but I believe we have to turn it and score more than one goal.”
Team Focused on Domestic League amidst European Aspirations
The team must quickly shift their focus back to domestic competition, with an upcoming niké League match against Podbrezová on Sunday. The winner of the two-legged tie against Neman Grodno will advance to the third round of the Conference League, where they will face the victor of the match between FK Radnički 1923 (Serbia) and KÍ Klaksvík (Faroe Islands).