Derry City face HNK Rijeka in Conference League after Europa League exit marred by crowd trouble

Derry City manager Ruaidhrí Lynch has reflected on the electric atmosphere and fan support despite a defeat and crowd trouble that marred the second leg of their Europa League first qualifying round against CSKA Sofia. The Northern Irish side lost 5-3 on aggregate and subsequently entered the second round of the Conference League qualifiers, where they will face HNK Rijeka.

The match at the Brandywell was temporarily stopped and police were deployed due to disturbances between rival supporters. Lynch described the atmosphere as "utterly electric" and praised the fans for being "phenomenal," but lamented that the game would likely be remembered for the trouble rather than football. His own family was in the crowd, and he noted how intimidating it was.

As a result of the incidents, UEFA handed Derry City a suspended partial stadium closure for a probationary period of two years and a fine of €20,000 (£17,000). CSKA Sofia were banned from bringing away fans to their next European fixture, with an additional one-game sanction suspended for two years.

Now Derry turn their attention to the Conference League, with Lynch hinting that the positive aspects of the previous match—particularly the fan support—can be used to build momentum. "I think if we can get back in the same place, ideally you would even take a draw off to be told and get yourself back on a level playing field to go into the second tie. That would be ideal for us," he said.