Spartak Medzev — Zemplín Michalovce, Cup

Zemplín Michalovce saw off Spartak Medzev 2:0 in the Round of 64 of the Cup on Tuesday evening. The visitors took control after the break and never looked back. To be fair, the hosts had their chances but could not find the net.

T. Walczak broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, and V. Theofanopoulos made it two in the 59th. The goals came in quick succession, and here's the thing — the game was effectively over after that pair of strikes. Spartak Medzev pushed forward but ran out of ideas.

The statistics tell a story about who controlled territory without converting it. The hosts registered 94 attacks and 9 shots off target against just 1 on target. Zemplín had 7 shots on target from 136 attacks and took their chances. Possession sat at 40 per cent for the hosts, 60 for the visitors.

Spartak Medzev had been inconsistent of late, drawing 3:3 with Banič Kalinovo in February and losing 0:2 to Štíňa in August. Zemplín Michalovce arrived in better rhythm, having beaten Trenčín 3:1 in their last outing. The contrast in form showed up in the way each side approached the tie.

The away side advances and now holds every card for the next round. Spartak Medzev exit the competition with their legs intact but their record against top opposition yet to improve. By then, the focus will shift to league fixtures.