Lions suffer defeat in Baku

Jacob Neestrup concedes his F.C. Copenhagen side deserved to lose Wednesday's UEFA Champions League clash at Qarabag, which the hosts won 2-0 in Baku. 

"Qarabag were the better team in the first half across several parameters, while we didn't hit our level at all," says the head coach. "But in the second half we did what we could and came close, but we didn't convert our chances, and that's why we deserved to lose today.

"In the first half we were too open and were too bad on the ball, while they played at a high offensive level. We changed the system at half time to try to get into the game in a different way, and 3-4-3 also gave us something more in our pressing game, and as the half developed, we did well and created several great opportunities.

"But as I said, we didn't score our chances, and that's why it ended the way it did, and we ultimately lost due to our poor first half.

“Of course, we would have liked to have one or three more points after two league games, but that’s the way it is, and it doesn’t change our approach for the rest of the League Phase. We still have to go out and fight every time to get as many points as possible, regardless of whether it’s enough to be among the top 24."

Rodrigo Huescas was unfortunately injured early in the match and had to be carried off the field, and although he will be examined further in Copenhagen, Neestrup was not optimistic.

“Unfortunately, it’s probably a long-term injury, and I really feel for him if it’s what we fear. He’s having a great season and is also looking forward to playing in the World Cup for Mexico next year, but now we have to see what the examinations show,” concluded Neestrup.