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FC Midtjylland cruise past Frederikstad to book ticket for playoff round in EL-qualification

Aral Simsir surrounded by Frederikstad players
Aral Simsir surrounded by Frederikstad playersBo Amstrup / EPA / Profimedia
FC Midtjylland confirmed their participation in the playoff round for the Europa League when they cruised to a 2-0 win at home against Norwegian outsiders, Frederikstad, to win 5-1 on aggregate.

The final challenge before the league phase will be Finnish side KuPS, based in Kuopio in central Finland.

FC Midtjylland are big favorites to take the overall victory over the Finns. Should the Danes lose against KuPS they will still be guaranteed European football as they then automatically will be transfered to the Conference League. 

By winning 3-1 away from home a week ago, Thomas Thomasberg's team already had one leg in the next round, but it was by no means a cushion going into Thursday's return leg.

The home side looked eager to build on the lead from the start and seemed more like a team that needed to chase than the Norwegians, who were under pressure straight away.

FC Midtjylland - Frederikstad - Player Ratings
FC Midtjylland - Frederikstad - Player RatingsFlashare

The pressure paid off already in the ninth minute, when Mads Bech Sorensen put FC Midtjylland in front as he got on the end of one of the home side's many early set pieces. 

The early goal effectively removed any doubt about the final outcome, but after the weekend's failure against Fredericia, the home side din't allow themselves to lose concentration. 

After 17 minutes, Mikel Gogorza turned provider for the onrushing full-back Paulinho to double the score

The home side then took their foot off the pedal but were still in solid control and had no trouble seeing the game out against a Norwegian side that never posed a threat.