Viktoria Plzeň remains without a point after two matches in the Europa League league phase following a 1–2 defeat against Ferencváros in Budapest. Two second-half goals from the Hungarian side condemned the Czech club to their fourth loss in their last five competitive matches.
Defensive Mistakes Decide Budapest Encounter
Plzeň traveled to the Hungarian capital with ambitions of securing their first points in the continental competition, but unforced errors proved costly. Ferencváros broke the deadlock in the 49th minute after the Czech visitors lost possession near the halfway line. Birmančevič set up Zachariassen, who slotted a low shot past goalkeeper Ťapaj into the far corner.
Head coach Radoslav Kováč lamented the avoidable nature of the goals conceded. “We make mistakes, we give away goals ourselves, it’s terribly unnecessary,” Kováč said. “In Europe, it’s similar to the Czech league; you must not concede the first goal. We have a set piece, then we make a mistake and concede the opening goal, which ultimately decided the match.”
Penalty Seals the Outcome in the Second Half
The hosts doubled their lead in the 81st minute after a defensive foul inside the penalty area. Defender Dweh brought down Birmančevič, and though the assistant referee initially raised an offside flag, a video assistant referee review overturned the decision. Zachariassen converted the resulting spot-kick straight down the middle.
Ferencváros and Viktoria Plzeň meet again 👊#UEL pic.twitter.com/AvKzXgu2eM
Plzeň mounted a late response when Dweh flicked on a corner kick at the near post, allowing substitute Višinský to bundle the ball in from close range in the 90th minute. However, the visitors failed to find an equalizer during stoppage time, extending their winless run in Budapest to three matches over the past year and a half.
Tactical Shifts and Lineup Changes
Kováč made a single change to his starting lineup from the weekend league victory over Mladá Boleslav, recalling Doski to the left side of the defense in place of Pališčák. In goal, Ťapaj retained his spot despite primary goalkeeper Wiegele returning to availability following an illness.
Ferencváros deployed Birmančevič in the starting XI for the first time since his summer transfer from Sparta, while former Plzeň defender Cadu also featured for the home side. Plzeň midfielder Memič started on the left flank and forced an early save from Ferencváros goalkeeper Radnóti with a powerful 11th-minute strike under the crossbar.
Upcoming Fixtures in European and Domestic Play
Plzeň must quickly regroup ahead of their next European assignment. The Czech club returns to action in one week, hosting Levski Sofia at home.
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