Ousmane Diao scored in a second straight Europa League match as FC Midtjylland won 3-2 at City Ground on Thursday, moving to six points from their first two group games.
The 21-year-old defender now has two goals in this season’s competition, matching his tally from last year. He put Midtjylland ahead 2-1 midway through the first half, finishing from close range after a free kick fell to him in front of an open goal.
Diao’s Impact and Team Strategy
Diao emphasized the team’s work on set pieces and the daily training behind their success, and he described the contest as intense against high-level opposition, with a game plan that paid off. The atmosphere was relentless at a sold-out City Ground, which was hosting its first European home match in nearly three decades, making on-field communication challenging due to the noise.
A tactical shift in the 66th minute saw Kevin Mbabu replaced by Lee Han-beom, prompting Diao to move to right wingback. He has played that role before at Mafra and mentioned that the change was designed to utilize his pace effectively. This adaptability showcases his versatility on the field, which is crucial for the team’s dynamics.
Despite the strong start to the group stage, Diao noted that the team still needs more wins to secure a place in the knockout rounds. The competition is fierce, and every match counts as they aim for success in this prestigious tournament. FC Midtjylland’s current momentum could be vital as they continue their journey in the Europa League.