Viktoria Plzeň coach Martin Hyský has revealed that Super Eagles forward Salim Fago faced a challenging introduction to European football during the club’s recent Europa League tie against Panathinaikos.

The 23-year-old striker made his European debut in the match, which ended in a 2-2 draw for the Czech side.

Addressing Fago’s performance, Hyský said, as quoted by Infotbal, “It was a tough match for him, his first time on the European stage against a very good opponent. I expect him to play more balls; he lost a lot of things. But I would attribute it to nervousness.”

The coach acknowledged the difficulties the forward encountered but highlighted the match as an important step in his adaptation to continental competition.

Fago had recently joined Plzeň from Croatian side NK Istra, where he impressed during his time in the Croatian top flight.

The draw against Panathinaikos keeps Plzeň with a strong opportunity to progress to the Europa League round of 16 when they host the Greek side in the return leg.

Hyský’s remarks on Fago highlight the coach’s belief that exposure to European competition will aid the young striker’s development and help him adapt to the demands of top-level football.

Wale Adejumo