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Today, in Nyon (Switzerland), after the draw for the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League, which paired Marijampolė's "Sūduva" with one of the strongest Belgian clubs in recent years, "Club Brugge," Lithuanians were not particularly disappointed.
"Without a doubt, 'Brugge' is a strong opponent, a well-known club in Europe, and it will be difficult to compete with them," said "Sūduva" representative to the press Arūnas Reinikis.
"Many remembered the matches against 'Celtic' a few years ago (in the 2002-2003 season, Glasgow's 'Celtic' crushed 'Sūduva' in the UEFA Europa League with an aggregate score of 10-1), which are opponents of similar strength to 'Brugge,' but the situation in 'Sūduva' is different now, we have gained more experience in European tournaments," said A. Reinikis.
"In terms of finances, such an opponent is good," said a resident of Marijampolė. "Brugge" is a popular club, so maybe a television station will decide to buy live broadcast rights."
"Now it is very difficult to evaluate the opponent - we will need to analyze them, see what players they have. But we will definitely try to fight," concluded A. Reinikis.
The representative of "Sūduva" also confirmed that the Marijampolė club will play their home matches, which will take place on August 10, at the Kaunas S. Darius and S. Girėnas Stadium, which can accommodate more spectators, has artificial lighting, and better infrastructure. A. Reinikis confirmed this information to EuroFootball.com after receiving the necessary information from UEFA.
This should mean that the leaders of the Lithuanian championship, "FBK Kaunas," will play their first UEFA Europa League matches against "Randers" away in Denmark.
