Zurich much too strong for Mark Coyle and his Shelbourne side in Conference League

Mark Coyle and his Shelbourne side's aspirations for a prolonged European campaign appear bleak following a 3-0 defeat to FC Zürich in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League second-round clash at Stadion Letzigrund, Switzerland last night.

The Dublin club, led by manager Damien Duff and captain Coyle from Burt, found themselves trailing within just 27 seconds when Ifeanyi Onyedika netted the opener.

Despite Shelbourne's efforts to regroup, they struggled against a dominant Zürich side, which was bolstered by the inclusion of Republic of Ireland U-21 player Armstrong Oko-Flex in the second half.

Zürich, participating in European competition for the first time since the 2022-23 season when they faced teams like Arsenal and PSV in the Europa League, showed no signs of rust. They took the lead early when Juan José Perea set up Onyedika for a powerful finish. The home side continued to press, with Shelbourne goalkeeper Conor Kearns being kept busy.

The Swiss team's second goal came in the 29th minute, with Marchesano finishing calmly after a well-timed pass from Onyedika. Marchesano was on target again in the 58th minute, converting a cross from Kryeziu.

Despite a spirited effort, Shelbourne could not find a breakthrough, with their best chance coming from Sean Boyd, whose attempt was comfortably saved by Zürich's keeper, Yanick Brecher.

The Irish side now faces a daunting task in the return leg at Tolka Park, needing a significant turnaround to keep their European hopes alive.