Rapid: Siegesserie hält an, Petrocub geschlagen
Rapid Wien extended their winning streak to five games with a convincing 2-0 victory over Moldovan champions FC Petrocub Hincesti in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League second qualifying round tie.
The Green & Whites, boosted by their recent domestic form, dominated the match from the outset. They controlled possession and created numerous chances, finally breaking through in the 25th minute when Marco Grüll headed home a Kofi Schulz cross.
Petrocub offered little resistance, struggling to cope with Rapid's attacking intensity and technical superiority. In the second half, Rapid continued their relentless pressure and doubled their lead in the 63rd minute through a stunning free-kick from Thorsten Schick.
The Austrian side now hold a comfortable lead ahead of the second leg in Moldova next week. Coach Ferdinand Feldhofer was visibly pleased with his team's performance, emphasizing their determination and tactical discipline.
"We are happy with the result, but we know that we haven't finished the job yet," said Feldhofer. "The second leg will be a tough challenge, but we are confident we can advance."
The victory keeps Rapid on track for a successful European campaign. After overcoming the first qualifying round against Maccabi Tel Aviv, the Austrian team is now just one step away from the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage.
Here are some key takeaways from the match:
- Rapid's attack was a force to be reckoned with: They created a multitude of chances, showcasing their creativity and finishing ability.
- The defense was solid and organized: They limited Petrocub to few opportunities, showcasing their discipline and tactical understanding.
- The team displayed a high level of intensity and commitment: They pressed high and fought for every ball, leaving no room for Petrocub to gain momentum.
This victory serves as a strong statement of intent for Rapid Wien. Their current form and the impressive display against Petrocub suggest that they are capable of achieving great things in this year's UEFA Europa Conference League.
The second leg in Moldova will be crucial, but Rapid will be confident of securing their place in the group stage. The team's confidence is high, and they will be looking to build on their impressive recent performances.