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Head coach Robbie Keane of Ferencváros shouts during the Europa League match between Ferencvaros and AZ Alkmaar. Alamy Stock Photo

Troy Parrott goal in vain as Robbie Keane's Ferencváros book spot in knockout stages

The Ireland international came on a second-half substitute and scored in a seven-goal thriller.

Updated at 23.02

ROBBIE KEANE’S Ferencváros secured a 4-3 win over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League tonight to finish 17th in the table and secure their place in the knockout stages.

Ireland international Troy Parrott came on as a second-half substitute in the 63rd minute for the Dutch side and scored late on, but his goal could not prevent the Eredivisie club from losing, though they still qualify for the next round in 19th position.

Keane got his managerial reign off to a disappointing start last week in this competition, as Ferencváros were beaten 2-0 by Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Hungarian side sat in 22nd position before tonight’s game and knew a win was needed to guarantee their place in the knockout stages.

By contrast, AZ had already qualified thanks to Parrott’s late winner against Roma last week and knew a victory would have put them in contention for a top-eight finish and automatic progress to the round of 16.

Keane’s side looked set for a comfortable victory as a brace by Tunisia international Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane and another goal by Mali winger Adama Traoré meant they had a commanding 3-0 lead at half-time.

Dutch midfielder Sven Mijnans got a goal back for the visitors before Hungary international Barnabás Varga registered a fourth goal for the hosts in the 82nd minute.

Ferencváros looked set for a comfortable win, but Parrott’s clinical finish coupled with another stoppage time goal by Mijnans set up a nervy finish.

It was the Ireland international’s third goal in the group stages and continues an encouraging season after joining the Eredivisie side, who are sixth in the table, from Spurs in the summer.

The 22-year-old has taken his overall tally to 13 goals from 28 appearances in all competitions for AZ.

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    Jan 31st 2025, 6:38 AM

    Well done Troy. Free Palestine.

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