Robbie Keane Left “Devastated” as Ferencváros Crash Out of Champions League After 5–4 Aggregate Defeat to Qarabag FK
Ferencváros TC’s Champions League dream came to a bitter end on Wednesday night, as the Hungarian giants fell 5–4 on aggregate to Qarabag FK in a dramatic playoff clash. Despite a spirited second-leg performance, Robbie Keane’s side couldn’t claw back the 3–1 deficit from the first leg, bowing out of Europe’s elite competition in heartbreaking fashion.
The second leg, played in Baku’s Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, saw Fradi strike first through talisman Barnabás Varga, igniting hopes of a comeback. But Qarabag responded with ruthless efficiency—Kevin Medina and Musa Qurbanly netting in quick succession to seal the tie.
Speaking after the match, Keane didn’t hide his disappointment.
“We gave everything tonight. The lads showed heart, hunger, and belief—but in football, sometimes that’s not enough,” Keane said. “To come so close and fall short hurts. We’ll regroup, but right now, it’s devastating.”
Ferencváros dominated possession and created several chances, but defensive lapses and Qarabag’s clinical finishing proved decisive. The aggregate scoreline reflects a tie that was fiercely contested, yet ultimately tilted by moments of brilliance from the Azerbaijani champions.
With Champions League hopes dashed, Ferencváros will now shift focus to the Europa League group stage. Keane emphasized the importance of bouncing back quickly.
“We have to lift ourselves. There’s still a lot to play for, and this club deserves to be competing in Europe,” he added.
The defeat marks a sobering moment for Fradi, who entered the campaign with high expectations under their charismatic Irish manager. As the dust settles, attention turns to domestic recovery and European redemption.
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