FC Thun - Lech Poznań 2:2

A week earlier, Lech had built a commanding advantage on Bułgarska Street by beating their Swiss opponent 7:0. It was a truly dominant display from Frederiksen’s men, leaving them in an extremely comfortable position ahead of the return leg and with qualification for the Europa League league phase within touching distance. They travelled to Switzerland with the aim of completing the job and extending their run of five consecutive victories.

From the opening minutes at Arena Thun, the guests were in control of the match, creating several chances in front of the hosts’ goal. After just over 15 minutes, a well-worked move through the middle of the pitch saw the ball reach Luis Palma on the left. The Honduran delivered an excellent cross into the box, where Robert Gumny once again showed his finishing ability, scoring in his second consecutive appearance. The Academy homegrown player controlled the ball before producing a fine finish to put his side ahead.

The Swiss Champions had nothing to lose and pushed for a quick equaliser. They got their reward less than five minutes later, when Simon Lengen finished off a great offensive attempt to bring Thun level. The hosts continued to press and found a second goal before halftime. Shortly before the break, Furkan Dursun found himself in a good position and made no mistake, putting the ball past Lech's goalkeeper.

After halftime, Lech regained control of the game and continued to cause problems for the hosts with occasional attacks. In the 68th minute, goalkeeper Mateusz Lis produced an excellent long-range pass to find Patrik Wålemark on the right wing. The Swede, who is enjoying sensational form, beat one of his defenders before producing a superb finish to score his sixth goal of the season. Interestingly, all six of the 24-year-old’s goals have come in Lech’s European qualifying campaign.

Both sides created a few more good opportunities before the final whistle, but neither was able to find a winning goal. As a result, the Polish Champions won the tie 9:2 on aggregate and celebrated a thoroughly deserved return to the Europa League.

Frederiksen and his men are back in the competition after six years away and are guaranteed at least eight matches for points in the league phase.