FC Koper secured a crucial away victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round, defeating NSI Runavik 2-0 in the Faroe Islands. The Slovenian side’s professional display ensured they return home with a clean sheet and a comfortable lead.

Match Overview

Played on a windy evening in Runavík, the match was dominated by the visitors from the start. Koper controlled possession and created the majority of chances, while NSI struggled to impose themselves. The home side showed resilience but lacked quality in the final third to trouble Koper’s defence.

Key Moments

• 31st minute: Koper took the lead. A well-worked move saw Alen Krpan slide the ball to Luka Šušnjara (no relation to the NK Bravo player), who finished calmly.
• 68th minute: The visitors doubled their advantage. A corner was headed across goal, and Ivan Novoselec nodded in from close range.
• 75th minute: NSI’s best chance came from a set piece, but a header was tipped over the bar by Koper goalkeeper Jan Koprivec.

Tactical Story

Koper set up with a 4-2-3-1, seeking to dominate the central areas. Their full-backs pushed high to support the attack. NSI attempted to play direct balls to lone striker Jákup Jakobsen, but the Koper centre-backs dealt comfortably with the aerial threat. The second half saw NSI push forward more, leaving space behind, which Koper exploited for the second goal.

Standout Players

Luka Šušnjara was lively on the wing and scored the opener. Jan Koprivec kept a clean sheet with a solid performance. For NSI, defender Brian Nielsen made several important clearances.

Season Impact

FC Koper return to Slovenia with a two-goal advantage and the knowledge that NSI Runavik failed to score at home. The Faroese side now need a remarkable performance in the away leg to stay in the competition. Koper will be confident of finishing the job in front of their own fans.