UEL: Viktoria Plzen Completes Stunning Comeback to Knock Out Ferencvaros

Viktoria Plzen staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Ferencvaros 3-1 on aggregate in the UEFA Europa League playoffs.

Viktoria Plzen achieved a remarkable comeback in the UEFA Europa League playoffs, defeating Ferencvaros 3-1 on aggregate after losing the first leg. This historic victory marked the first time Plzen has progressed in a major European competition after being defeated in the initial leg.

Ferencvaros traveled to Czechia with a slim one-goal lead, but their advantage was short-lived. The Hungarian side was under pressure from the start and narrowly avoided falling behind when Julio Romao cleared Lukas Cerv's effort off the line. Ferencvaros responded with a chance of their own, as Matheus Saldanha curled a shot inches wide.

The match continued to ebb and flow, with Plzen creating another opportunity. However, Lukas Kalvach's deflected effort was incredibly saved by David Grof. Ferencvaros' resilience was eventually broken just before the half-hour mark. Rafiu Durosinmi's powerful header was initially saved by Grof, but a combination of Durosinmi and Vaclav Jemelka forced the ball over the line.

Comeback completed ✅#UEL pic.twitter.com/a7T47gNemS

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) February 20, 2025

The tie took a dramatic turn just eight minutes later, as Pavel Sulc scored a decisive goal. Matej Vydra set up Sulc, who powered the ball home to give Plzen a commanding lead. This stunning comeback secured Plzen's spot in the next round, marking a historic achievement for the Czech side.

The goal gave Plzen the aggregate lead, and they quickly added a third goal, potentially sealing the tie. Durosinmi scored at the near post, converting Sulc's cross.

Hungarian side Ferencvaros needed a strong response, prompting manager Robbie Keane to make two substitutions at halftime. However, the changes failed to yield the desired results, as Ferencvaros struggled to create scoring opportunities in a lackluster second half.

The hosts, Plzen, were content to defend their lead, having already done the necessary work. They successfully protected their advantage, despite Ferencvaros's increased pressure in the final stages.

Plzen's 5-1 aggregate victory marked their fifth win in six second-leg knockout home ties. However, they missed opportunities to make the scoreline more convincing, notably when Prince Kwabena Adu squandered a clear chance, shooting wide with only Grof to beat.

The defeat marked another heavy Europa League loss for Ferencvaros, who have now lost their last three away games in the competition by a dismal 10-0 aggregate scoreline.