Ståle: We were better here than Malmö or Kiev
F.C. Copenhagen manager Ståle Solbakken was delighted with the 1-0 UEFA Europa League win over Lugano on Thursday that keeps the Lions top of Group B.
A Nicolaj Thomsen strike was enough for FCK to squeeze past Lugano and secure three vital away points.
Other Group B opponents Malmö and Dynamo Kiev could only earn draws in Switzerland.
And Ståle was delighted a number of his lesser-played stars stood up to the challenge.
"We played a well-executed match, and generally had a really good grip on them - and we were better here than both Malmö and Kyiv were," Ståle told FCK.dk.
“However, we had to find ourselves at the start of the match, where we seemed a little unsure a few times and where there was a bit of danger in our half a couple of times.
"But in the second half we were in control, especially the first 30 minutes of the second half, where we had complete control over them. The defence was clearly on top after the break."
Ståle chose not to give starts to a number of players who have struggled for minutes of late.
And the boss was very pleased with the response.
"Those who had not received so many minutes before today, they did well," he added.
“Of course I'm happy with the victory and the three points. That the result of the second match means we have to get points in the last match we were prepared for.
"Now we have an exciting final against Malmö, but it annoys me that we will play the match without the suspended Carlos Zeca."
----
Upcoming F.C. Copenhagen home games
FCK take on Malmö on December 12 and you can buy tickets for the game today!
F.C. Copenhagen tickets are still on sale for the clash against the Swedish side, who beat Kiev 4-3 on Thursday night to move second in the group.
Meanwhile, attention for FCK now turns to Sunday's derby against Brøndby.
We expect a sold-out Telia Parken stadium for the 11:45am kick off and fans can still buy remaining tickets in the A Stand.
Click here for more F.C. Copenhagen vs Brøndby ticket information.