The first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 have come to an end, with both expected results and a few surprises that set up an exciting second leg as teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals of the competition.
Manchester United and Real Sociedad draw
In a clash between two of the tournament’s title contenders, Manchester United and Real Sociedad played out a 1-1 draw. United took the lead early, but the Spanish side responded with an equalizer and came close to securing the victory. This result leaves everything open for the second leg.
Roma won at the last minute
In another thrilling match, Roma came from behind to beat Athletic Club 2-1, after trailing 0-1. A dramatic 90+3’ goal from Eldor Shomurodov sealed the comeback, taking advantage of Athletic playing with 10 men since the 85th minute. This result gives the Italian side an edge in a very evenly matched tie.
Frankfurt staged a comeback against Ajax
Similar to the Roma match, Eintracht Frankfurt overcame an early deficit against Ajax to win 1-2. With the return leg set to take place in Germany, Frankfurt will have both a home advantage and a one-goal lead, while Ajax will need a strong performance to turn things around.
With nine players, Lazio secured the win
Lazio earned a crucial victory against Viktoria Plzen, but not without drama. First, they were saved by a VAR-overturned goal in the 13th minute, then they took the lead before Plzen equalized. The Italian side suffered two red cards in the 77th and 90+3rd minutes, but despite being two men down, Gustav Isaksen scored the winner at 90+8’.
AZ shocked Tottenham
Tottenham’s Premier League struggles followed them into the Europa League as they suffered a 1-0 loss to AZ Alkmaar. A 18th-minute own goal was enough to give the Dutch side the advantage, and they even looked closer to scoring a second than Spurs did to equalizing. Tottenham will now have to overturn this deficit at home.
Lyon outclassed FCSB
In Romania, FCSB failed to capitalize on their home advantage as Lyon came away with a comfortable 1-3 win. This gives the French side a solid lead heading into the second leg in France.
Rangers defeated Fenerbahce
The Scottish side Rangers secured a 1-3 away win against Fenerbahce in Turkey. This result puts them in a strong position heading into the second leg in Glasgow.
Bodo/Glimt, the surprise of the tournament
Finally, Bodo/Glimt continues to be the surprise package of the tournament. The Norwegian side, largely unknown before the competition, dominated Olympiacos with a 3-0 victory. This gives them a huge advantage for the return leg in Greece.
The second-leg matches
All eight second-leg matches will be played on Thursday, March 13.
Cover photo: X (@EuropaLeague)
