“Sour. It’s a heavy loss. We dropped in quality, struggling in the first half and ultimately faltering in the second,” reflected August Erlingmark in an interview with SVT Sport.
Amidst the disappointment, chants of “Avgå Billborn” echoed through the stands, directed at the coach, Stefan Billborn, who nonetheless took the time to acknowledge the fans after the match.
When the topic of resignation arose during Aftonbladet’s broadcast, Billborn responded, “It’s clear what needs addressing, and now it’s time to act.” He emphasized the need to focus on their performance going forward.
Levadia’s dominance was evident as they netted all three goals. In a comical twist, Abraham Nwankwo unwittingly headed the ball into his own net while attempting to counter Kolbeinn Thordarsson’s delivery, inadvertently reducing the deficit to 1-2 in injury time.
“That goal was crucial; just one strike can change everything. Even if it was a transfer target, we earned that,” Erlingmark asserted, reflecting on the match.
The older fans couldn’t help but shake their heads, recalling the European glories of the 1980s and 1990s as they witnessed the blunders that marred their team’s performance against Tallinna FCK Levadia.
In the club’s 27-year history, their most notable achievement remains a playoff appearance for the Europa League in 2009.
Erlingmark sidelined for return match
Listed as a mid-tier team in Superettan, Levadia showed no signs of respect, taking full advantage of the gaps left by Gothenburg’s defense.
The first goal came when Rockson Yeboah lost a crucial duel high up the pitch, allowing Levadia to exploit a swift counterattack. The ball found its way to Wendell, who struck decisively.
Wendell added another goal, taking full advantage of the passive and sparse IFK defense during injury time in the first half.
The return match is set for July 30 in Tallinn, but August Erlingmark will not be available due to a red card received in extra time for pulling down an opponent who was breaking free.
“I just wanted one goal between us and made a quick decision,” Erlingmark explained, maintaining his confidence in Billborn despite the setback.
