Boříl's Liberec Debut Overshadowed by Injury — Slavia Clash in Doubt

The debut of 35-year-old defender Ondřej Boříl for Liberec was overshadowed by injury — roughly half an hour into the match against Zbrojovka Brno, the experienced player hurt his right ankle and was unable to finish the game.

The incident happened in midfield: Boříl was receiving the ball with his back to goal when Zbrojovka's Antonín Vaníček, who had come on as a substitute for the injured Lucky Eze, closed him down from behind. Boříl tried to evade the challenge but was caught on the back of his left leg and fell — landing awkwardly and putting excessive strain on his right ankle as he tried to brace himself.

The former Slavia captain needed treatment on the pitch, with his injured leg given an injection to numb the pain. He attempted to carry on, but was visibly limping whenever he tried to accelerate and repeatedly signalled to the bench that he needed to be substituted. Liberec coach Branislav Fodrek reacted swiftly, bringing on Augustin Drakpe to complete the back three in place of the veteran defender.

Slavia Match Now in Doubt

Boříl has nine days to recover before Liberec's home clash with Slavia Prague on 16 August. He has every incentive to play against his former club — especially since he joined Liberec from Slavia Prague as a free agent, meaning there are no contractual restrictions preventing him from featuring in the match.

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Around Prague, based on reporting by sport.cz