The first matches of the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League, one of the most popular competitions in European club football, have kicked off. The intense and uncompromising matches provided fans with unexpected results, dramatic moments, and decisive goals. Some teams achieved a significant advantage away from home, while others complicated the situation before the second leg.
In a match held in France, Lille hosted England's Aston Villa. Considered one of the tournament favorites, the Birmingham side showed an orderly game, winning by a minimal margin thanks to a goal scored by Ollie Watkins in the 61st minute. This result created a good opportunity for Aston Villa ahead of the second leg.
Lille - Aston Villa 0:1
Goal: Watkins (61).
The clash between the Italian clubs was also quite interesting. Bologna hosted Roma at their home ground. The hosts opened the scoring early in the second half with a goal from Federico Bernardeschi. However, the Romans quickly responded - Lorenzo Pellegrini equalized in the 71st minute, saving his team from defeat. The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Bologna - Roma 1:1
Goals: Bernardeschi (51) - Pellegrini (71).
In another match held in Germany, Stuttgart hosted Portugal's Porto. The visitors were active from the very beginning of the game. Goals scored by Terem Moffi and Francisco Mora gave Porto the upper hand. Although Undav's goal reduced the deficit, the game ended 2-1 in favor of the visitors.
Stuttgart - Porto 1:2
Goals: Undav (40) - Moffi (21), Mora (27).
The debate in Greece was quite dramatic. Panathinaikos hosted Spanish club Betis at their home ground. The match went goalless for a long time. Only in the 87th minute did Taborda convert a penalty and bring victory to the hosts. Two players were also sent off - Zaruri for Panathinaikos and Lorente for Betis.
Panathinaikos - Betis 1:0
Goal: Taborda (87, penalty).
Red cards: Zaruri (59, Panathinaikos) - Lorente (88, Betis).
Thus, the first matches of the quarter-final stage ended with interesting results. Now all attention is focused on the return matches, which will be held on March 19. These matches will determine which teams will advance to the next stage of the Europa League. Football fans are eagerly awaiting even more intense and exciting matches.
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