The UEFA Europa League delivered another thrilling round of fixtures on Matchday 3, with Tottenham Hotspur maintaining their perfect start while Manchester United once again struggled to secure a win. Other standout performances came from Rangers, Lazio, and Fenerbahçe, while Roma finally earned their first victory of the campaign.
In this round-up, we’ll break down the major highlights and results from the Europa League’s third matchday.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 AZ Alkmaar: Spurs Keep Rolling
Tottenham Hotspur continued their perfect run in the Europa League, clinching their third consecutive victory in the group stage with a 1-0 win over AZ Alkmaar. The crucial goal came from Brazilian striker Richarlison, who scored his first goal of the season. Richarlison confidently converted a penalty after teammate Lucas Bergvall was tripped in the box. The win sees Spurs top their group with nine points from three games, giving them maximum momentum as they continue their European campaign.
What made the game even more impressive was the performance of 17-year-old Mikey Moore, who lit up the field with dazzling runs and close attempts on goal. AZ Alkmaar’s defender David Møller Wolfe was sent off after receiving a second yellow card late in the match, further solidifying Tottenham’s dominant display.
This result cements Tottenham’s place as one of the strongest teams in the Europa League this season, keeping them on course to qualify early for the knockout stages.
Fenerbahçe 1-1 Manchester United: United Held to Third Successive Draw
Manchester United’s struggles in the Europa League continued, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Fenerbahçe in Istanbul. Despite Christian Eriksen’s early goal, which came from a well-executed team move in the 15th minute, United were unable to hold onto their lead. Fenerbahçe’s Youssef En-Nesyri equalized just four minutes into the second half, nodding home a header that left goalkeeper André Onana stranded.
Onana was one of United’s standout players, making a sensational double save to deny En-Nesyri twice just before half-time. However, United could not break through Fenerbahçe’s resilient defense again in the second half. This result leaves Erik ten Hag’s side with three draws from their opening three group-stage games, and the pressure is mounting as they seek their first victory in the competition.
Despite the draw, Fenerbahçe fans celebrated the point enthusiastically, as the Turkish side now sits with five points from their first three games. United’s inability to convert their possession into goals continues to be a concern, and they will need to improve if they hope to progress in the competition.
Rangers 4-0 FCSB: Scottish Giants Cruise to Victory
Rangers delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Romanian side FCSB, showcasing their attacking prowess in front of a jubilant home crowd. Václav Černý was the star of the match, setting up Tom Lawrence for the opening goal in the tenth minute before scoring two stunning goals of his own on either side of half-time. The game was capped off by substitute Hamza Igmane, who netted his first-ever goal for Rangers.
This impressive win gives Rangers their second victory in the group stage and keeps them firmly in contention for the knockout rounds. The Scottish side’s dominant performance sent a strong message to their European rivals, and they’ll be looking to maintain this form as the tournament progresses.
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Lazio 2-0 Twente: Lazio Leads League Table
Lazio emerged as the top-ranked side in the Europa League’s group phase after a solid 2-0 victory over Twente. Twente’s goalkeeper, Lars Unnerstall, was sent off after just 11 minutes, which severely hampered the Dutch side’s chances. Lazio took full advantage, controlling the game from start to finish. With this win, Lazio has nine points from their first three games, making them one of the favorites to advance deep into the competition.
Roma 1-0 Dynamo Kyiv: Roma Finally Break Winless Streak
Roma finally secured their first Europa League victory of the season with a 1-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv. Ukrainian forward Artem Dovbyk converted a penalty in the 23rd minute to give the Giallorossi the breakthrough they desperately needed. Roma’s manager, Ivan Juric, had been under immense pressure following a string of poor results, but this victory should ease some of the tension around the Italian club.
Dynamo Kyiv, on the other hand, remains winless in the competition, suffering their third consecutive defeat. The Ukrainian side has struggled in European competition this season, with little to show for their efforts. They are one of three teams, alongside Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Qarabağ, yet to pick up a single point after Matchday 3.
Best of the Rest: Porto, Ajax, and More
Porto continued their fine form with a 2-0 victory over Hoffenheim, while Ajax made easy work of Qarabağ, winning 3-0 in Baku. Athletic Club secured a narrow 1-0 win over Slavia Praha, and Midtjylland pulled off a surprise 1-0 win over Union SG. Real Sociedad came from behind to secure a 2-1 away win over Maccabi Tel-Aviv, further boosting their chances of advancing to the next round.
In other results, Anderlecht cruised past Ludogorets with a 2-0 win, and Olympiacos edged out Malmö with a 1-0 victory. On Wednesday, Galatasaray survived a scare after surrendering a 3-0 lead but eventually held on for a 4-3 victory against Elfsborg.
How the league phase table is shaping up after Matchday 3 #UEL pic.twitter.com/0JDGuDRp05
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) October 24, 2024
