Differdange secure long-awaited win – Strassen stay in the fight

After six defeats and two late concessions by Differdange and Racing Union last week, FCD finally got over the line on Wednesday to become the first Luxembourgish team to record a victory on the European stage for the 2025–26 campaign.

Pedro Silva’s side beat Welsh record champions The New Saints in a closely fought tie, switching to a more attacking formation following the injury of midfielder Bruninho last week.

The proactive style paid off – the team allowed the Welsh side to control possession, only to hit them on the counter-attack after successful interceptions.

Differdange began with their usual intensity, but this time with greater purpose and drive. The hosts initially managed to contain the pressure, but the deadlock was broken just after the half-hour mark: Artur Abreu drove into the box from the right and fired home past a helpless goalkeeper.

The goal gave the Luxembourgers added confidence, and they pushed forward for the rest of the match, creating several chances in the second half in a bid to all but settle the tie.

That goal never came. The game became more physical towards the end, with frequent duels, fouls and scuffles across the pitch. FCD continued to create danger in the final third but were let down by poor finishing – and at times by indecisive passing or a lack of understanding between teammates.

Nonetheless, the win away from home will boost morale in the Differdange camp.

After a sluggish defeat in Kosovo and a failed comeback a week later, it was refreshing to see the defending champions rediscover their spark, showing the same creativity and defensive discipline that brought them back-to-back league titles.

Tuesday’s return leg at the Stade Municipal is expected to sell out, with fans eager to see FCD match their previous best run in Europe – reaching the third qualifying round. If they win on aggregate, two more rounds remain to become the first Luxembourgish side to reach the Conference League group stage.

UNA Strassen still in with a chance

Starting their European campaign away from home was never ideal for Strassen – even less so when the draw paired them with respected Scottish side Dundee United.

The schedule meant playing first in front of more than 14,000 home fans, with some fearing a repeat of UNA’s last away day in Europe – a 5–0 defeat to Kuopio. There were concerns the second leg might lack interest from both sets of fans.

In reality, quite the opposite happened. Strassen defended heroically and conceded just once, keeping the tie alive for next Thursday’s match in Luxembourg, where the crowd is now expected to be significantly larger.

Dundee United, preparing for their first European run in three years, underwent a major squad overhaul, bringing in players from across Europe. The lack of cohesion showed in the first half, as Strassen managed to bypass the press on the flanks and came close with two near misses.
The match was goalless at the break – a strong result for a semi-professional side facing a top-half team from one of Europe’s most physical leagues.

Dundee’s superior resources and preparation time became more evident after the restart. The Scottish team took control following their 47th-minute goal, while Strassen were left to defend deep, cut off scoring routes and hope to pounce on long balls against an imposing defence.

An equaliser never seemed within reach, but the gap in quality was far smaller than many had expected.

All eyes on Differdange

The Stade Municipal will now host two decisive matches in quick succession, with both Differdange and UNA Strassen looking to take the next step in their European journeys.

For Luxembourg football, it’s a rare moment of continental promise – and a chance to make history.