Johansson crowns Motherwell’s European win as a career highlight

Motherwell manager Alfred Johansson declared his side’s 3‑1 aggregate win over HJK Helsinki in the Europa Conference League as one of the finest of his career, a triumph witnessed by 8,100 fans at Fir Park on the night of 13 August 2026, published at 23:50 and updated at 23:53.

Two solo strikes from winger Ibrahim Said after the interval sealed Motherwell’s progress, overturning the Finns and delivering a 3‑1 aggregate result. The Finns were outclassed throughout, and the decisive goals came in front of a bumper crowd inside Fir Park.

Johansson said, “It has to rank quite high. It was two really strong legs from us in Helsinki and here.” He added that the effort impressed him and that the team took another step in how they want to play on the ball.

He praised the 8,100 supporters, noting, “We had 8,100 people here, which from what I hear in modern times is up there with some of the best games in terms of attendance.” Johansson continued, “The energy of the fans singing and chanting transmits to the pitch and makes us better and stronger as a club.”

Said’s display earned plaudits from teammates, and Johansson called it an outstanding performance. “I’m so pleased for him,” he said, adding that Said has been strong at the start of the season in Europe and the league. He recalled, “Against Falkirk he dropped a bit, his effort was high defensively but not as good on the ball, then a few days later he focused and improved, impressive.”

Play‑off draw pits Steelmen against Freiburg

The Steelmen will join Hibernian, who overcame Shkendija in Skopje, in the Conference League play‑off round. A mouth‑watering clash with Bundesliga heavyweights Freiburg is scheduled for next week, setting up a first‑leg tie on Thursday.

Freiburg, last season’s Europa League finalists, will travel to Fir Park for the opening leg of the two‑match tie. Johansson refused to look beyond the upcoming Premier Sports Cup last‑16 trip to Stenhousemuir on Sunday, keeping the focus on the immediate challenges.

Johansson eyes further signings

New signing Joe Hodge could make his debut this weekend, and Johansson hinted at additional arrivals before the window closes. “We’re not done in this window. There are still things to be done but we want to be patient and make the right decisions,” he said.

The new Well boss Alfred Johansson has overseen a dream start to the season in Lanarkshire, and his confidence suggests Motherwell will aim to build on the recent European success.