The Daily Star Ireland
Ferencváros came close to reaching the Champions League group stage this season but fell short against Qarabağ, who themselves went on to stun Benfica in their opening fixture. Despite that setback, the Hungarian champions have started the season in excellent form, winning eight of their last ten matches across all competitions. Their dominance was underlined by a staggering 15-0 demolition of Szarvaskend in the Hungarian Cup’s round of 32.
Now, attention turns back to Europe, where Ferencváros will be eager to build on last year’s run to the Europa League knockout stages. Their first major test comes against Viktoria Plzeň, a side with a strong continental pedigree and fresh memories of eliminating Ferencváros in last season’s play-off round.
Ferencváros: A Free-Scoring Side in Form
Robbie Keane’s men enter the contest with confidence. Their talismanic striker Barnabás Varga has been in electric form, netting 10 goals in his last eight appearances, including a brace against Portugal in World Cup qualifying. He is supported by experienced forward Aleksandar Pešić, who struck nine times in last season’s Hungarian league.
Ferencváros also boast quality throughout the squad. Ex-Liverpool midfielder Naby Keïta has settled into his role alongside homegrown talent Kristóf Tóth and versatile Brazilian playmaker Cadu. With this blend of European experience and local strength, the Green Eagles will feel optimistic about their chances on home soil, where they have enjoyed 13 wins in their last 17 Europa League fixtures.
Plzeň: Dangerous but Inconsistent on the Road
Plzeň arrive in Budapest on a decent domestic run, with four wins from their last five games across all competitions. Their recent 5-0 triumph over Mladá Boleslav highlighted their attacking threat, while narrow victories against Karviná and Sigma Olomouc demonstrated resilience under pressure. However, a trip to Sparta Prague last weekend tested their unbeaten streak, adding extra pressure to this European outing.
In attack, Nigerian forward Rafiu Durosinmi and Czech striker Matěj Vydra lead the line, having combined for eight league goals already this season. Bosnian international Amar Memić and French midfielder Cheick Souaré provide further creativity in midfield, while Valenta and Lukáš Červ add stability in the center.
Injuries remain a concern for coach Miroslav Koubek. Veteran Jan Kopic and defender Lukáš Hejda are sidelined, while Cory Sene is also unavailable. On a positive note, Spacil and Dweh have recently returned to match fitness and could provide additional depth.
Prediction
Ferencváros’ strong home record in the Europa League makes them favorites, particularly with Varga in red-hot form. Plzeň, though dangerous, have struggled on their travels in Europe, losing 12 of their last 17 away matches at this level.
Prediction: Ferencváros 2 – 1 Plzeň
The Hungarians’ attacking firepower should see them through, but expect a competitive battle from a Plzeň side that has the tools to make life difficult.
