Arnautovic scores twice: Red Star Belgrade advances comfortably to the next Champions League qualifying round

Limits of the comparison

In the overall picture of the match, however, the limits of the comparison were also revealed: Larne had arrived as the underdog from Northern Ireland and was only able to match the pace and playing quality of the Serbian top club in phases. Red Star Belgrade played with confidence on the ball and consistently converted their goal-scoring opportunities. The clear lead allowed the coach to conserve energy in the closing stages and give some players additional minutes.

With the clear victory, Red Star Belgrade maintains the chance of participating again in the Champions League group stage. The club had already caused a stir internationally in the previous season. The coming rounds will show whether the club around Arnautovic can once again be part of the European elite.

Next hurdle awaits

In the next qualifying round, the winner of the encounter with Víkingur Reykjavík awaits as a different challenge for the Serbs. Should Red Star Belgrade also master this duel, the path to the lucrative revenues of the premier competition would come within reach.

Arnautovic, who moved to Belgrade in the summer, is fitting seamlessly into the team's attacking play with his goals. His experience from numerous European competitions gives the squad additional stability.

For Larne, the defeat brings an end to this year's European cup summer. Nevertheless, the Northern Irish club can look back on a remarkable debut season in international business. The team had previously put in notable performances in the preceding rounds and earned respect.

Outlook on the premier competition

Red Star Belgrade now enters the decisive phase of qualifying with confidence and a deep squad. The mood in Belgrade is optimistic in view of the commanding performance against Larne, even though the upcoming tasks are likely to become significantly more difficult.