In a decisive clash that showcased the significant gulf between the two sides, Plzen dispatched Nové Sady with a 2-0 victory in the Round of 16 of the Czech Cup on October 29, 2025. The match, held at Nové Sady's home ground, Nove Sady, was marked by a second-half surge from the visitors, who cemented their place in the quarterfinals with clinical finishing.
The game unfolded against a backdrop of contrasting recent form. Plzen, fresh off a four-match winning streak, entered the competition brimming with confidence. Their last outing was a convincing 2-0 victory over Baník Ostrava just days earlier, while Nové Sady had struggled in league play, managing only one draw and four losses in their last five matches. My pre-match prediction was decidedly optimistic for Nové Sady-a team that had secured a notable Cup victory over Sigma Olomouc just weeks prior. However, their inability to maintain momentum proved a critical factor against a Plzen team on the ascent.
The opening exchanges were tentative, with both teams probing for weaknesses. However, it was Plzen who found their rhythm first, with the dynamic Rafiu Durosinmi playing a pivotal role. Although the first half concluded without goals, Plzen's intent was clear, and Nové Sady's defense began to show signs of strain.
The breakthrough came in the 75th minute when Durosinmi, exploiting a defensive lapse, found the net to give Plzen a crucial lead. His goal not only underscored his attacking prowess but also highlighted the growing frustration of Nové Sady's backline, which had been tasked with containing a relentless Plzen offense.
As Nové Sady pressed for an equalizer, they left themselves vulnerable at the back, and Lukáš Červ took full advantage. In the dying minutes of the match, he sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th minute, confirming Plzen's dominance and sending the visiting fans into rapture.
With this result, Plzen strengthens their position in the competition, potentially setting the stage for a run at silverware as they continue their strong form in both the domestic league and the Cup. Meanwhile, Nové Sady's hopes of Cup glory are dashed once more, adding more weight to their struggles in league play.
Looking ahead, Plzen will seek to maintain their momentum as they target a sustained challenge in the league, while Nové Sady must regroup and find answers to their ongoing issues if they are to salvage their season. As always in knockout football, lessons are learned, but the stakes continue to rise with each passing round, leaving both teams on diverging paths as they navigate their respective challenges.