Motherwell have reached the Conference League play-offs after beating HJK Helsinki 2-0 at Fir Park, completing a 3-1 aggregate victory. Manager Alfred Johansson has received praise for maintaining the progressive style established by his predecessor, Jens Berthel Askou, while refusing to be distracted by potential European opponents or supporter excitement about travel to Freiburg.

Ibrahim Said scored two impressive individual goals against HJK and was described by Johansson as outstanding, although the manager also stressed the need for continued development. Johansson is unbeaten in his first six matches since taking charge, despite Motherwell losing several key players in the summer; former player Andy Halliday believes the team could match last season’s level if it adds one or two attacking signings, particularly a goalscorer.