Timothy Ouma was impressive as Elfsborg claimed a vital Europa League win, but for his Harambee Stars teammate Adam Wilson, things were not as rosy for TNS in the UEFA Europa Conference League
Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma and striker Adam Wilson experienced vastly different fortunes on a night of European football action, showcasing both triumph and challenge.
Ouma shines as Elfsborg claim vital Europa League win
Timothy Ouma delivered a standout performance for IF Elfsborg, helping his side to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Qarabag in a UEFA Europa League clash on Thursday night.
Operating as a central midfielder, Ouma displayed remarkable composure and skill, excelling both defensively and offensively.
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Ouma dominated his ground duels and maintained an impressive 83% pass accuracy over the 90 minutes. His defensive contributions were equally vital, including two crucial clearances, a blocked shot, and four successful tackles.
This match marked Ouma's sixth start in European competitions, a testament to his growing influence at Elfsborg.
Elfsborg controlled possession early on, nearly scoring in the 24th minute when Sebastian Holmén's header rattled the crossbar following Ahmed Qasem's cross.
Shortly afterward, Ouma showcased his attacking ability with a powerful right-footed shot from the left wing, but Qarabag’s goalkeeper, Mateusz Kochanski, denied him with a reflex save.
After a goalless first half, the breakthrough came in the 57th minute when Ahmed Qasem headed home a well-placed corner from Besfort Zeneli. Despite Qarabag’s late push for an equalizer, including a shot that struck the post in the 70th minute, Elfsborg’s defense held firm, securing a valuable win.
The result puts Elfsborg 24th in the Europa League standings with seven points from six matches, leaving them on the brink of a qualification playoff berth thanks to their superior goal difference.
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Adam Wilson’s New Saints Falter in UEFA Conference League
Meanwhile, Ouma’s national teammate Adam Wilson had a challenging outing with the New Saints as they fell 2-0 to Panathinaikos in a UEFA Conference League encounter in Wales. Wilson, a second-half substitute, was introduced in the 78th minute, hoping to inspire a comeback.
Despite limited time on the pitch, the former Newcastle United winger made an effort to impact the game, completing one key pass and winning a ground duel. He also contributed defensively with a crucial tackle. However, it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Goals from Filip Đuričić and Fotis Ioannidis sealed victory for Panathinaikos, leaving the New Saints’ qualification hopes hanging by a thread. They now sit 32nd in the Conference League standings with just three points from five games.