Jelavić double helps Rapid past Beroe
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
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SK Rapid Wien 3-0 PFC Beroe Stara Zagora (agg: 4-1)
Nikica Jelavić struck twice as the Austrian side completed a comfortable aggregate victory which ensures their place in Friday's play-off draw.
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Croatian international Nikica Jelavić struck twice as SK Rapid Wien wrapped up a 4-1 aggregate victory against PFC Beroe Stara Zagora which books them a place in the UEFA Europa League play-offs.
A 1-1 draw in Sofia five days ago left everything to play for, but Rapid were in the ascendancy five minutes into the return in the Austrian capital. Markus Katzer and Christoph Saurer combined to good effect on the left and Jelavić opened the scoring with his head.
If that put the Bulgarian Cup holders on the back foot, Jelavić left them facing an almighty struggle on the hour. Captain Steffen Hofmann this time provided the assist and Jelavić a delightfully curled finish. Katzer put the result beyond doubt 19 minutes from time after good work from substitute Veli Kavlak.