Champions League
NEC must erase a 3‑1 deficit in Norway, yet midfielder Tjaronn Chery says an early strike could reignite the team's belief and change the tie's momentum
NEC travel to Norway on Tuesday evening for the Champions League return against Bodø/Glimt, needing to erase a 3‑1 first‑leg deficit, while midfielder Tjaronn Chery insists the task is not impossible and that an early goal could instantly restore belief.
The Dutch side, known as the Nijmegenaren, face a difficult assignment in Norway, where they must overturn the 3‑1 shortfall. In the match itself they already find themselves 2‑0 down, meaning they must keep a clean sheet from the start and look to score quickly.
De NEC media asked Chery about the duel in Norway. He replied, “I think you have a lot to lose. We are already 2‑0 behind, so we must be very sharp from the beginning to keep a clean sheet. We also have to make those goals quickly. If you score one, belief will certainly return. Then things could start to click.”
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Chery added that timing is crucial: “The earlier we score, the better. We know we can always find the net, especially in the second half when we get more chances. It will be tough, we must not underestimate them, but everyone still has a lot of belief.”