Union beats Viktoria Pilsen without problems despite absentees

Union achieved on 17 September 2026 in the Czech Republic a convincing 3‑0 victory over Viktoria Pilsen on the first matchday of the UEFA Europa League, despite a large number of absentees for their side.

Goals and yellow cards

Relevohile Mofokeng opened the scoring in the 18th minute, followed by Mateo Biondic who made it 2‑0 in the 43rd minute. Ondrej Kricfalusi finished the match with a goal in the 59th minute. All three players also received a yellow card: Kricfalusi in the 17th, Biondic in the 43rd and Patrik Hrošovský in the 45th minute.

Substitutions and tactical choices

Union made five substitutions, with coach David Hubert using all three of his substitution options. Ondrej Kricfalusi was replaced by Nohim Chibani in the 75th minute, while Darius Olaru came on for Dylan Aquino in the 83rd minute. For Viktoria Pilsen, among others, Amar Memic and Prince Kwabena Adu were substituted in the 64th minute.

In the second half Souaré unexpectedly fell to the ground, after which the referee briefly wondered whether it was a cramp. Later Zeneli delivered an excellent corner kick, which Kricfalusi finished perfectly.

Goalkeeper Koffi recorded his first clean sheet in the Europa League, being hardly tested. Pilsen tried to apply pressure, but produced only a corner kick and a panna, which Union easily saw off.

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After the third goal Ondrej Kricfalusi received a warm applause from the 170 Union supporters present, a sign of appreciation for his effort despite the yellow card.

The referee added three minutes of stoppage time; in the 90+1 and 90+4 minutes Union retained possession and thwarted every attempt by Pilsen to come back.

Coach David Hubert praised his team for the professional execution and emphasized that the rotation of players was essential to manage the intensive European schedule.

With the victory in mind, Union now prepares for the upcoming Europa League match against Leuven, hoping to maintain the built-up momentum and aiming for a point in the home game.