The opening matches of the 2025/26 Europa League showcased a wide range of emotions, from Antony’s dazzling performance to Van Persie’s bitter defeat and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s disappointment.
Betis 2-2 Nottingham Forest: Antony rescues the home team
The clash between Real Betis and Nottingham Forest to kick off the 2025/26 Europa League group stage delivered a goal fest. Antony made a strong impact with an assist to Bakambu in the 15th minute, but shortly after, Igor Jesus equalized for Nottingham.
Antony both assisted and scored, helping Betis avoid defeat against Nottingham
The visitors even took the lead in the 23rd minute with Jesus heading in after a corner kick. Near the end of the match, Antony scored the equalizer to finalize the 2-2 draw, securing a point for Betis at home.
Braga 1-0 Feyenoord: Van Persie suffers defeat in debut match
Meanwhile, Feyenoord under coach Robin van Persie had a rough start, losing 0-1 to Sporting Braga. The game was tightly contested with many chances for both sides, but the turning point came in the 79th minute when Fran Navarro confidently finished a cross from the left wing, clinching a narrow win for Braga.
Despite late offensive efforts, Feyenoord failed to score and left Portugal empty-handed. This is a heavy blow for Van Persie, especially as Feyenoord was relegated to the Europa League after losing in the Champions League qualifiers.
Nice 1-2 Roma: Sir Jim Ratcliffe disappointed
In France, Nice hosted Roma under the watchful eye of owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Nice started confidently, but within the first three minutes of the second half, they conceded two quick goals from N’Dicka and Mancini. Roma demonstrated rare sharpness this season by fully capitalizing on their chances.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe caught showing a disappointed expression
Although Moffi reduced the deficit with a penalty, Nice could not turn the game around. Broadcast footage captured Sir Jim’s grimace in the stands as his team suffered a 1-2 loss at Allianz Riviera.
Other matches
In other fixtures, Midtjylland comfortably defeated Sturm Graz 2-0, PAOK drew 0-0 with Maccabi Tel Aviv, Dinamo Zagreb caused an upset by beating Fenerbahce 3-1, Celtic and Crvena Zvezda drew 1-1, Freiburg edged Basel 2-1, and Ludogorets overcame Malmo 2-1. These results highlight a turbulent start to the Europa League group stage, with several big-name clubs paying the price right from the first match.
Results from the opening round of the 2025/26 Europa League qualifiers
The Europa League opening round delivered thrilling developments and surprises, signaling a season full of excitement and drama for fans.
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