Derry City (1) v IFK Gothenburg (0) The Brandywell Kick-off: 7.30Derry City will attempt to emulate the success of their 1965 counterparts tonight at the Brandywell when the Candystripes entertain IFK Gothenburg. And having recorded what was a sensational 1-0 victory in the Ullevi Stadium two weeks ago, Derry have high hopes of progressing to the next stage of the competition.
Team manager Stephen Kenny will give late fitness tests to defender Peter Hutton and left-sided midfielder Killian Brennan.Both players are carrying knee injuries and should they not make it, then Kenny will face a selection headache.
However, Kenny remains confident in his squad's overall ability . "Should Peter or Killian not make the panel, then players such as Ciarán Martyn, Stephen O'Flynn, Gareth McGlynn, Mark McChrystal and Ken Oman will come into the picture," he said.
However, Kenny suggested Derry still face an uphill task.
"They will be favourites to win the game and in Niclas Alexandersson and Andreas Vasquez IFK have two wingers who supply quality ball into the danger areas, therefore, we've got to guard," he concluded.
"They boast Swedish internationals in their side and while the element of surprise has now gone, I don't think they are technically superior to us.
"After our win, they travelled to Halmstaad to record a 4-1 victory in the Swedish league and then defeated West Ham in a friendly fixture on Saturday last.
"They are formidable opponents having won the Uefa Cup twice over the last 20 years, but we will not have an inferiority complex. We intend to play with ambition and strive to cause them problems," added Kenny."
IFK underestimated their opponents in Sweden and, with striker George Mourad expected to start the game this time, the home defence will be tested to the full.
Mourad, on loan with an Italian club last season, has since scored twice against Halmstaad and netted another in the win over West Ham. But Kenny insisted his players are ready for the challenge.
"We performed with great passion and determination in Sweden and we'll have to produce another similar display if we are to get through."
