The Europa League Round of 16 first-leg results delivered high-octane drama as top European clubs battled for supremacy. Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad, while Lazio and AS Roma claimed crucial victories in the dying minutes of their matches.
Manchester United fought to a hard-earned 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in Spain. Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring in the 57th minute with a composed finish from the edge of the box, giving Erik Ten Hag’s side the advantage. However, the hosts found a way back into the game when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a 70th-minute penalty after Bruno Fernandes was penalised for handball in the box.
With the tie finely balanced, the second leg at Old Trafford will be crucial as the Red Devils aim to capitalise on their home support to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
Despite being reduced to nine men, Lazio showed remarkable determination to clinch a 2-1 victory against Viktoria Plzen. Alessio Romagnoli headed the Italian side into the lead in the 18th minute, only for Rafiu Durosinmi to equalise for Plzen in the 53rd minute.
Lazio faced further setbacks when Nicolo Rovella and Samuel Gigot were both sent off, leaving them two men down. However, in the 98th minute of stoppage time, Gustav Isaksen produced a stunning strike to snatch a dramatic victory and hand Lazio a narrow advantage ahead of the second leg.
AS Roma made the most of their home advantage in a thrilling 2-1 win against Athletic Bilbao. The visitors took the lead in the 50th minute through Inaki Williams, but Roma quickly responded with a powerful strike from Angelino just six minutes later.
As the match appeared destined for a draw, Eldor Shomurodov struck deep into injury time in the 94th minute, giving Roma the upper hand as they prepare for the return leg in Spain.
Elsewhere, AZ Alkmaar edged Tottenham Hotspur 1-0, courtesy of a Lucas Bergvall own goal. Lyon secured a commanding 3-1 win against Slavia Prague, with Malice Fofana scoring twice late on.
Rangers stunned Fenerbahce with a 3-1 away win, while Eintracht Frankfurt earned a 2-1 away victory over Ajax. Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt cruised to a 3-0 triumph against Olympiacos, leaving the Greek side with a mountain to climb.
With the return legs set to take place next week, the race for the Europa League quarterfinals is wide open. Fans can expect another round of thrilling action as teams fight to keep their European dreams alive.
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