Robbie Keane Plots Bold Lineup Shake-Up as Ferencvárosi TC Prepare for Crucial Second Leg Against Qarabag FK…
Baku, Azerbaijan — August 25, 2025
Ferencvárosi TC manager Robbie Keane is reportedly preparing a series of unexpected changes to his starting XI ahead of the decisive second leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff against Qarabag FK. Following a disappointing 3–1 home defeat in the first leg, Keane is determined to inject fresh energy and tactical flexibility into his side as they chase a dramatic comeback in Baku.
Sources close to the Hungarian champions suggest that Keane could reintroduce Ibrahim Cissé, who missed earlier continental action due to suspension, to bolster a revamped three-man defense alongside Toon Raemaekers, Gábor Szalai, and Stefan Gartenmann. The shake-up comes after Keane made ten changes in Ferencváros’ domestic fixture last weekend, clearly prioritizing European qualification.
The first leg saw Ferencváros take an early lead through Barnabás Varga, only to collapse in the second half as Qarabag netted three unanswered goals. Keane attributed the drop in performance to the injury of midfielder Bence Ötvös, whose absence disrupted the team’s control in midfield.
“We had a good first half, but losing Bence was a big blow,” Keane said post-match. “The goals we conceded came from set pieces and throw-ins—not from open play. That tells you we lost control in key areas”.
Despite the setback, Keane remains defiant. “What gives us hope is that Qarabag might think they’ve already won this tie. But football has a way of striking where it hurts most,” he added.
Ferencváros will need a near-flawless performance in the second leg to overturn the deficit and book their place in the Champions League league phase for the first time in five years. With Keane’s bold lineup changes and a renewed sense of urgency, fans are bracing for a high-octane clash that could redefine the club’s European ambitions.
Kickoff is scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium, with everything on the line for both sides.
