Neestrup reacts to 3-0 win in Gibraltar

F.C. Copenhagen coach Jacob Neestrup says the Lions got what they came for after beating FCB Magpies 3-0 in Gibraltar on Thursday evening.

Mohamed Elyounoussi put FCK in front on the half-hour mark, with Viktor Claesson and Victor Froholdt adding to the tally in the second half.

It means FCK carry a commanding lead back to Parken next week for the second leg of this UEFA Europa Conference League second qualifying round tie.

"It went pretty much as we expected and hoped it would be," says Neestrup.

"We were naturally favorites to win both here and overall, but I had said in advance that you can't easily come down here and win big. Especially because the pitch conditions reduced some of the differences between the two teams.

"The pitch was bumpy, and the ball had some strange bounces at times, because the grass was soft in several places and it was difficult to have the pace of the game that we would like.

"But we were prepared for that and knew it would take some time to break them down, but I am very satisfied with the players' concentration and discipline.

“FCB had a single set piece – the only chance they had in the whole match. As the game progressed, they grew tired, but they did what they could based on their conditions. Whether it was 2-0, 3-0 or 4-0 is not important."

Højer impresses on debut
Neestrup was also able to give Oliver Højer his debut off the bench as the youngster came on for Magnus Mattsson midway through the second half.

"Oliver did well, he came on and brought his strengths into play and showed that he is a good player," says Neestrup.

"We are happy that we also gave him his first game time in an official match. It's just too bad he didn't also get to scoresheet – but he'll have to hit inside the post next time!"