FC Utrecht had an impressive performance in the Europa League last season, providing a valuable example for FC Twente. The Utrecht club began their European adventure in the second qualifying round, just as FC Twente will this season. Despite starting as an unseeded team, Utrecht faced a relatively weak opponent in Sheriff Tiraspol. This choice proved crucial, as Utrecht eliminated Sheriff and advanced to the next round. During the draw for the third qualifying round, Utrecht benefited from the coefficient of Sheriff, allowing them to have a seeded status. This resulted in a match against Servette FC, which they also overcame. Ultimately, Utrecht reached the playoffs, where they again faced a weaker opponent in Zrinjski Mostar. This lottery strategy could also work in favor of FC Twente, despite their unseeded status. FC Utrecht's experiences show that a tough draw doesn't always have to be a disadvantage, and with the right approach, success in the Europa League is possible.