Ferencváros, Hungary’s 2019-20 football champions, qualified for the group stage of the Champions League with a 0:0 draw against their Norwegian opponent Molde in Budapest on Tuesday. It has been 25 years since the most popular Hungarian club could play in the prestigious tournament.
Since Fradi scored three goals in Norway, the 3-3 away draw meant that the pressure was on the Molde players to score. It was clear from the beginning that, aware of this, Ferencváros’ tactics were based on solid defense and counter-attacks.
Photo by Tamás Kovács/MTI
Due to the coronavirus restrictions, fans were not allowed to enter the stadium; however, outside of the building, thousands of fervent fans gathered to help the home team in these crucial moments.
Photo by Tamás Kovács/MTI
Based on their behavior, it was quite clear they were not worried about the epidemic and precautionary measures, and did not care a bit about getting infected or infecting others – the only worrying issue of the night for them was the possibility of Ferencváros not qualifying for the Champions League, so they tried to scream and yell as loud they could to make the team feel their support.
Photo by Tamás Kovács/MTI
The Norwegian players attacked more but only a few attempts were dangerous enough to need heroics from Ferencváros goalkeeper Dibusz. The match was not the best one the Groupama arena has seen but this time result was much more important than playing spectacular football. The goal-less draw at home was enough to carry Ferencváros to its first Champions League appearance in 25 years, a historic achievement for the club and Hungarian football as well.
Photo by Tamás Kovács/MTI
The Norwegian team will continue in the Europa Cup.
Ferencváros (HUN) – Molde (NOR) 0:0
Ferencváros: Dibusz – G. Lovrencsics, Blazic, Botka, Heister – Sigér (Laidouni, 79.), Haratin, Somália (Frimpong, 87.) – Uzuni, Nguen (Isael, 79.), Zubkov
Molde: Linde – Pedersen, Gregersen, Ellingsen, Haugen – Aursnes, Hussain (Omoijuanfo, 83.) – E. Hestad, Wolff Eikrem, Knudtzon (Brynhildsen, 64.) – L. James
Featured photo by Tamás Kovács/MTI