Everything is open after 0-0 – Good performance, but no goals: Servette convincing in Braga – Sport

Servette began his European Cup adventure in Braga, Portugal, on Thursday evening. Despite an unusually late start time by Swiss standards (9:30pm), the people of Geneva were wide awake from the start.

Against Braga, who finished fourth in last year’s Portuguese First Division, Thomas Haberli’s side had a strong first half. The only flaw: a lack of shots. Lacking final pressure, Alexis Antunes (21′) and Enzo Crivelli (29′) almost missed their shots, neither of which found the net. Miroslav Stevanovic was also inconsistent when he had a chance shortly before half-time.

Braga is improving

After the break, Braga’s form improved. But the Swiss representatives were not interested in ending the game in defeat. The Portuguese gained an advantage in ball possession statistics. But after their pass relay mainly occurred in the midfield, they rarely created goal threats.

The situation in front of the Servette goal didn’t become precarious until a quarter of an hour before the end of the game. But Jérémy Frick, who was the goalkeeper in the European Cup, appeared on the field twice. In the 82nd minute, Bruma’s shot hit the side net.

Everything is possible

Therefore, everything remains open for the second round. If Geneva wins this qualifying round, they will be guaranteed to participate in the European Cup league stage. Either in the Europa League if they eliminate Trabzonspor or Rapid Vienna in the playoffs. Or in the divisional league if they lose in the playoffs.

If Servette is eliminated against Braga, the next level will be more difficult: Chelsea awaits in the La Liga playoffs.