‘Djurgarden Legends Reflect on Landmark Victory: “The Defining Goal of My Career”‘

Djurgarden required an additional 30 minutes to secure their spot in the UEFA Conference League (UECL) Semi-Finals, emerging victorious with a 4-1 win over SK Rapid Wien in Vienna, thus clinching a 4-2 aggregate triumph. This landmark achievement marks the first time the club has graced the Semi-Finals of a European competition.

The decisive moment arrived in extra time, with two crucial goals from Tobias Gulliksen ensuring Djurgarden’s advancement. With this milestone, Djurgarden has become the first Swedish club to reach the last four of a major European tournament since Goteborg triumphed in the UEFA Cup back in 1987.

Reflecting on the match, Gulliksen and his teammates expressed their joy and relief, sharing their sentiments with UEFA.com post-match.

“What an incredible feeling! I am immensely proud of both the team and our supporters. It was a highly intense game, and we had to remain alert and responsive to the unfolding action,” he remarked.

“After 90 minutes, the coach advised us to keep our composure and be patient for opportunities. I missed a chance in the first half, but fortunately, my subsequent chances found the back of the net. We’ve demonstrated our resilience, although we also have areas to improve.”

Gulliksen’s opportunity to net his late goals came after full-back Keita Kosugi executed a brilliant side-footed shot from just outside the penalty area, putting The Iron Stoves ahead 2-1 with time running out in regular play.

“I’m absolutely thrilled; it was a magnificent match. All I can say is that it felt like a fortunate goal with my right foot. I believe it’s the most significant goal of my career,” exclaimed a delighted Kosugi, who eagerly anticipates the challenge of facing UECL favourites Chelsea in the Semis.

“Competing against Chelsea will be a monumental experience for me. I’ve never played against such a formidable team before. It’ll undoubtedly be tough, but as a united team, we can prevail against Chelsea.”

Prior to the match, head coach Jani Honkavaara urged his players to adhere to their game strategy; however, a red card shown to Rapid’s Mamadou Sangare just seven minutes in complicated matters more than expected, as per Honkavaara’s comments.

“I’m not sure if I’m more exhausted than the players! However, the lads gave their all,” he stated at the post-match press conference.

“The red card disrupted our rhythm slightly. Sometimes, facing an opponent with one less player can lead to overexertion; you tend to rush things. We found our footing in the second half and created numerous chances.”

“It was a close contest, and we left everything on the pitch. I’m incredibly proud of the players.”

Honkavaara struggled to articulate just how remarkable the second leg had been, especially as they progressed despite having a stretched squad due to injuries. He hopes for a more robust selection when preparing to face the Londoners.

“It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience to advance under these circumstances. I have faith, and I trust that the players share that belief. It’s an extraordinary emotion, and, looking ahead, it’s hard to accept that we may face Chelsea with a limited squad,” he added.

Chelsea made it through to the Semi-Finals despite suffering a defeat in the second leg against Legia, while Real Betis will clash with Fiorentina in the other last-four fixture.