All square between FCK and Club Brugge
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
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FC København 0-0 Club Brugge KV
Round of 16 contenders two seasons ago, FCK have their work cut out to reach the play-offs this time round after being held on home soil.
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The third qualifying round tie between FC København and Club Brugge KV remains in the balance after a goalless first-leg draw in the Danish capital.
The hosts are no stranger to the UEFA Champions League group stage having got as far as the round of 16 two seasons ago and were once again eager to make a big impression. Brugge, who have not made it into Europe's premier club competition in seven years, were understandably anxious from the off.
Chances for either side were few and far between, with César Santin and Sölvi Ottesen spurning FCK's best opportunities. At the other end, Jonathan Blondel's long-range strike was comfortably saved by Johan Wiland.
The match picked up after the break, with both sides upping the pace in search of a breakthrough. Ottesen had a clear opening when he met Lars Jacobsen's cross, but he could not steer his header on target. Lior Refaelov then nodded wide for the visitors, but it was Ariël Jacobs' side who remained in charge.
Substitute Martin Vingaard's free-kick was well thwarted by Vladan Kujović, but neither side seemed too disappointed with the draw as full time approached. FCK go to Bruges for the return leg on 8 August.
