The team from the south of the country won the away leg of their second round qualifying tie 1-0 in Tallinn thanks to a 32nd minute goal from Philippe Lebresne. That was enough to see them through to the next round after the teams drew 0-0 in the first match in Differdange (photo). The Luxembourg team now faces Olympiacos Volou of Greece, with the home tie for Differdange scheduled for July 28 and the away leg a week later.
Meanwhile Andy Schleck has been lauded by sports writers all over the world for his brave performance in the Tour de France, with what The Guardian called an “explosive gesture” in the race to the 2,645m summit of the Col du Galibier, the highest ever finish in a Tour stage. “Andy Schleck ascended to the plateau of greatness,” wrote Richard Williams.
With brother Fränk finishing second, the stage is set for a truly exciting race today, Friday, with the finish at Alpe d’Huez. Andy told the Luxemburger Wort he was “prepared to attack again”, as, indeed, he must if he is to establish a lead before Saturday’s time trial--discipline in which rivals fare better. But he also praised yellow jersey rider Thomas Voeckler, whom he said had “fought like a real champion” to retain the race lead.
The Schlecks also received a message of support from prime minister Jean-Claude Juncker, who said the whole country was proud. He congratulated them for their performance and said he hoped their adventure would continue.