Photo courtesy of the UEFA Europa League’s official Facebook page
Trabzonspor visited Apollon Limassol earlier today to open their Europa League Group Stage campaign.
The game was played tightly throughout as no one managed to dominate at any point in time during the entirety of the 90 minutes.
Limassol netted the opener from the spot as a soft penalty kick was given due to a foul on Sol Bamba.
Trabzon’s equalizer arrived just two minutes later as former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda headed home from close range off of Olcan Adin’s cross from the right flank.
The winner was, of course, scored with less than five minutes to go as Yusuf Erdogan was sent through on goal by Adrian Mierzejewski then he slotted past the keeper into the bottom corner.
The game was very slow paced, as the only excitement that took place was when the two goals from open play were created. Neither side was able to put together a quick set of passes, make a quick run or even trick an opposing player to get a rise from the fans.
Frankly, none of these sides are good enough to hoist the UEL trophy. In reality, these clubs rely on defense and counter-attacking plays to win games. Playing in Europe’s second most prestigious competition may not be the most honorable but the fact is that teams should be proud to be there and play at their very best at all times. Getting away with lazy play in league games makes sense but doing so in Europe will not bring wins.
Like Trabzon, Lazio won their opening game at home against Legia Warsaw. Therefore, Trabzon and Lazio both lead the group with three points as they share a +1 goal difference.
Next up, Trabzon will host Lazio while Apollon visits Legia Warsaw.
