Roony: 'I've worked hard for that moment'

Roony Bardghji scored his first F.C. Copenhagen goal since March on Saturday during the 1-1 draw with FC Nordsjælland - a moment the 16-year-old winger has been waiting a long time for.

"It was great to get the chance again - and it was big for me to score again in Parken," said Roony afterwards.

"I've worked hard for that moment for a long time, and worked hard every day in training. It means a lot to me to be able to come on and help the team - but of course it was really disappointing that we didn't get the three points, but had to settle for one at the very end."

Happy to show his worth
Roony's goal came on his fourth appearance for the Lions this season. He found the net twice in his debut campaign last term, and at 16 believes he still has plenty of progress to make.

"I actually had a bit of a flashback to my debut last year. At that time we were also 1-0 ahead, but conceded an equaliser in the last minute," said Roony. "But unfortunately that's how football is sometimes, we just have to get up again as quickly as possible, because I think we had deserved the win.

"I believe in myself a lot, and it was great to also show the coach and everyone else that you can trust me. So it means a lot to be able to make a difference for the team."

Grateful for the reception
Roony's only match at home this season was back on the opening day of the campaign against AC Horsens, where he played the last half hour.

"When the disappointment of the result has subsided, I'll be very happy to have played again in Parken in front of all our many fans," he said. "I have waited a long time to be allowed to do that again and it was fantastic to hear them sing my name.

"I'm grateful for the reception they gave me - it's something that gives you a lift and you just want to pay them back and do as well as possible."

Big challenge against City
FCK now face Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, before a clash with Brøndby in the derby at the weekend.

And Roony is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

"It will of course be an incredibly difficult match on Tuesday night," he said. "We saw for ourselves how good they were last week in Manchester. They are the best team in the world, and at the same time we are affected by injuries to many of our most experienced players.

"We just have to do as well as possible and stand together as a team. And everyone knows that Parken on a European night is always a great experience and something very special. Of course I hope to be a part of that. Playing in the Champions League is something every player dreams of.”

Roony has yet to get game time in Europe's elite club competition, but he has played European football as he featured in both UEFA Europa Conference League games against PSV back in the spring.

The match against Manchester City kicks off at 18:45 on Tuesday in Parken.