Warsaw
FC Copenhagen has moved closer to securing a spot in the Champions League group stage after triumphing over Rakow Czestochowa with a 1-0 victory in the first leg of the playoffs. Having already overcome Qarabag FK and Aris Limassol in previous rounds, Rakow aspired to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time. However, entering Tuesday’s match, the Polish champions were not favored. FC Copenhagen wasted little time in taking the lead, scoring just over eight minutes into the game. A cross by Mohamed Elyounoussi deflected off Rakow defender Bogdan Racovitan, catching goalkeeper Adnan Kovacevic off-guard at his near post. Rakow attempted a response shortly before halftime, as Janis Papanikolau headed the ball into the net from close range after a precise cross. However, the goal was disallowed following a VAR review that revealed an offside. In the second half, the visitors focused on defensive play while Rakow sought opportunities to level the score. In the 66th minute, Sonny Kittel had a prime chance to equalize with a powerful volley, but his shot missed the target. As the game drew to a close, striker Lukasz Zwolinski’s attempt was blocked by the impressive performance of FC Copenhagen’s Polish goalkeeper, Kamil Grabara. Grabara’s efforts ensured that FC Copenhagen would carry a 1-0 advantage into the second leg, scheduled for August 30 in Copenhagen, Denmark.
