Another thrilling day of European football awaits, as the Europa League holds its final matchday with 18 simultaneous games and 28 teams still fighting for something.
No Time to Rest
Following the excitement of the Champions League, today it’s the UEFA Europa League’s turn to wrap up its league stage. Like its sister competition, this matchday will determine the eight teams that qualify directly and the 16 that will battle in the playoffs.
Key Matches of the Day
The action kicks off at 2:00 p.m. (Mexico City time), with Lazio looking to secure its top spot against a desperate Braga, which must win to have a chance at the playoffs.
One of the standout clashes is Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Roma. The German side is on the verge of securing a top-eight finish but must confirm it against the Italian club, which needs to lock in a playoff spot.
Other teams aiming for a direct ticket include Athletic Club against Viktoria Plzen, Manchester United taking on FCSB—who are also eyeing eighth place—Olympique Lyon vs. Ludogorets, Tottenham vs. Elfsborg, and Anderlecht, featuring “Chino” Huerta, facing Hoffenheim.
Challenging these teams for a direct spot, Galatasaray will battle Ajax, Bodo/Glimt faces Nice, Olympiacos takes on Qarabag, and Rangers go head-to-head with Union Saint-Gilloise, both currently tied at 11 points. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar will square off against Ferencváros.
Clubs like Real Sociedad, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş will aim to secure their playoff spots against PAOK, Midtjylland, and Twente, respectively. The first two of those opponents are also in contention for a playoff berth.
Lastly, Porto will fight for qualification against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The “Dragons” currently sit outside the playoff spots and must win to keep their Europa League hopes alive.
