Scoutmania

AIK Stockholm defeated Hungarian side ETO FC Győr in Sweden, in the 2025/26 UEFA Conference League Third qualifying round 1st leg – by the final score 2-1.

(Photo above by: Olof Broberg, ScoutMania main scout for the Swedish territory)

AIK took a valuable step towards advancement with a 2–1 home win over Hungarian ETO FC Győr. The Stockholm club displayed greater pace, more efficient transitions, and an overall maturity. AIK and ETO FC Győr by both playing in their 5-3-2 formations made this match even more interesting.

Managers

• Mikkjal Thomassen (AIK) – From Faroe Islands, Thomassen represented his national team as a player before working outside football in Copenhagen after retirement. His coaching breakthrough came up at KÍ Klaksvík, where he delivered historic success for his home country. He then moved to Norway, guiding Fredrikstad FK into becoming a top side, before taking charge of AIK. With life and work experience in the Faroe Islands, Denmark and Norway, he brings deep knowledge of the Nordic football landscape to Stockholm.
• Balázs Borbély (ETO FC Győr) – Born in Dunajská Streda, a Slovak city with a Hungarian majority, Borbély’s career reflects the cross-border football culture of the region. A coach with a clear identity built around possession and technical creativity, he has carried this philosophy into ETO’s senior and academy structures, helping the club maintain its strong tradition of producing and scouting young talent.

Match Summary

From the opening whistle, AIK imposed their rhythm, using quick transitions and well-organized pressing to disrupt ETO’s build-up. The home side’s speed in both attack and defensive recovery repeatedly put Győr under pressure, and AIK’s attacking patterns were clearly designed to exploit central spaces once possession was regained.

ETO, however, brought their own identity to the match. Known for their productive academy and strong scouting network, the Hungarian visitors impressed with creative passing combinations and a positive attacking style. Their interplay in tight spaces often broke AIK’s lines, showing that this team is not only about youth development but also about playing attractive football.

In the end, AIK’s sharper execution in decisive moments earned them the deserved 2–1 victory, giving them a narrow but important advantage ahead of the return leg in Hungary.

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Scouting Recommendations

ETO FC Győr

• Kevin Bánáti (2005) – Central Midfield
  Demonstrated excellent ability in quick combinations and high-speed actions. Consistently found solutions under pressure and contributed to maintaining ETO’s creative style. A central midfielder with composure and vision, well-suited to possession-oriented systems.
• Márk Csinger (2003) – Centre-Back
  Faced a tough evening against AIK’s rapid offensive transitions, occasionally left isolated in central areas. Nevertheless, he displayed balanced defensive and offensive qualities, adapting better as the game progressed. A complete defender with no obvious weaknesses, though not yet at elite level.

AIK Stockholm

• Bersant Celina (1996) – Attacking Midfield (MVP)
  The standout performer of the night. Former Manchester City academy talent, showcased his creativity, dribbling skills and vision. His combinations and 1v1 moments lifted the crowd, confirming his status as a fan favorite. Still possesses qualities that could thrive at a higher level.
• Áron Csongvai (2000) – Central Midfield
  A commanding presence with exceptional short and long passing. Controlled tempo and connected play seamlessly. Popular among the fans, and already a key figure in AIK’s midfield.
• Erik Flataker (2004) – Forward
  The 20-year-old Norwegian continues to prove himself as part of his country’s exciting new generation. While he didn’t score, his intelligent runs and tireless work created spaces for teammates. A player with strong upside for the future.

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Tactical Notes

• AIK Stockholm excelled in transition play, using aggressive pressing and direct vertical attacks after ball recovery.
• ETO FC Győr impressed with technical quality in possession but struggled to defend central spaces during turnovers.
• Both sides showed moments of high-level football, with Győr’s youthful energy and creativity keeping the tie alive ahead of the return leg will be played on August 14, 2025.