This Thursday evening, the Mauves travelled to Razgrad to face PFC Ludogorets. Compared to the win against STVV last weekend, Majeed Ashimeru, Lior Refaelov, Francis Amuzu (injured) and Benito Raman were replaced in the starting line-up by Amadou Diawara, Kristian Arnstad, Mario Stroeykens and Islam Slimani. Sporting lost 1-0 and will have to win by two goals at the Lotto Park if they want to qualify for the round of 16 without going through extra time.
Anderlecht were pressed from the start and soon found themselves behind when Igor Thiago headed the ball into the net. Sporting hit back after 20 minutes, but Anders Dreyer saw his shot go wide. On the half-hour mark, Yari Verschaeren's attempt missed the target. Anders Dreyer also missed a chance to equalize near the break and a header from Islam Slimani failed to trouble Sergio Padt. In stoppage time, a crossed shot by Anders Dreyer unfortunately hit the post. Hence, 1-0 at the break.
Sporting continued to build momentum at the start of the second half, still enjoying over 60% possession, but there were fewer clear-cut chances, apart from a long-range shot from Kristian Arnstad. Brian Riemer made several changes to the team after an hour of play, bringing on Lior Refaelov, Majeed Ashimeru and Benito Raman. Bart Verbruggen then had to come up with a strong one-on-one save against Kiril Despodov, but the latter was eventually flagged offside. The home side often looked like they were about to crumble but Benito Raman, who was well placed in the middle of the field, was unfortunately beaten by the goalkeeper Padt. Sporting never found the breakthrough in Razgrad.
PFC Ludogorets |
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RSC Anderlecht |
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