Djurgården is chasing another Conference League group game and on the other side was Slovenian Maribor. And after a 1-0 win, it looks good for the return in Slovenia in a week’s time.
– Relieved to come away from here with a win, but if we had been a little more strict, we would have done something more, says Besard Sabovic to SVT Sport.
It was the Stockholm team that was responsible for the first goal chance when Oscar Fallenius was able to rake the ball into the open goal when Tokmac Nguen drove past his opponent but Fallenius’ toe tip was not long enough.
Former Atalanta player Josip Ilicic, who has now turned 36, lives in Maribor. But according to many Djurgårders, he should be happy that he was allowed to stay on the field after a kick on Besard Sabovic.
Red card ahead
In the second half came the redemptive lead goal for Djurgården. In the 68th minute, Nguyen pushed forward himself and found a perfectly running Deniz Hummet. Nguen then continued his run into the penalty area and got the ball back which he distinctly pushed there to make it 1-0.
– I think it’s a nice game. I make a good run and Tokmac lays it, then I know he’s going to get there. Then I see him and play it.
Just before added time, Gustav Wikheim looked to have a free chance, but Sven Karic tore down the Norwegian instead. The referee then raised the red card.
No major Maribor forcing ever came as the Slovenians didn’t even manage a shot on goal.
– We are a better football team. We are better both offensively and defensively, so I am a little disappointed. You have to be clinical and efficient and I don’t think we are today, it will be tough over there, there is grass and it will be hotter, says Sabovic.
Deniz Hümmet believes that the return against Maribor will be different.
– More areas will probably be opened up as they will want to move forward. Applies to being smart, he says.
UEFA Conference League
Djurgården IF
1 – 0
NK Maribor
