Björknesjö's tough start - loss to Vitória

Stand scandal, derby loss, and a coaching duo that got fired. The recent days' events stir up strong emotions in and around Djurgården. In the midst of it all: 1–2 loss at home against Vitória Guimarães in the Conference League. It's sour, says goal scorer Daniel Stensson.

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Björknesjö's tough start - loss to Vitória
Photo: Caisa Rasmussen/TT

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Despite the storms, the team pulled together under new coach Roberth Björknesjö, who had only had the job as head coach for a few days since Thomas Lagerlöf and Kim Bergstrand were let go on Monday.

The result was not what was desired, but the performance was all the better.

Djurgården created a huge chance just after half a minute.

Tobias Gulliksen played Tokmac Nguen free – both substitutes in the two-day derby against Hammarby – but Nguen's shot was parried by Bruno Varela.

"Standing up well"

It turned out to be the only really big opportunity for Djurgården in an intense, evenly matched first half.

It's a tough match, we're standing up well and working hard for each other. I think we've had a really good first half with energy, running will and joy of playing, said sports manager Bosse Andersson to Disney+ at halftime.

Only the goals were missing. They came right after the break – from both sides.

First, Manu, Vitória's central midfielder, scored a dream goal with his left foot. Jacob Rinne was helpless when the ball sailed in at the far post.

Daniel Stensson didn't want to be outdone from distance. His hard, low and well-directed left-foot shot bored its way in near the post.

His first goal for the club since the transfer from Sirius.

The Portuguese league team had a ball against the post. Besard Sabovic countered with a free kick that almost yielded a goal.

Sabovic wasted a chance

With a quarter of an hour left, Rinne had to be bandaged for what looked like a problem with his thigh or groin.

Soon he was down again – when substitute Nuno Santos headed in the winning goal.

Sabovic got the big equalizing chance, but shot high over.

Of course, it's really disappointing that we don't get any points. I think we're making a really good effort with a hell of a lot of energy. We come out as a new team in front of this audience, says Daniel Stensson to Disney+.

Djurgården started the Conference League group stage with a 2–2 draw away against Linz. In two weeks, Panathinaikos await at home.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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