Europa League: Marseille, Sporting Lisbon, and AS Roma secure round of 16 spots in thrilling Play-Offs
On Thursday night, the last four Europa League play-offs determined the final qualifiers for the round of 16. Olympique de Marseille faced Shakhtar Donetsk at the Vélodrome, following a drawn first leg (2-2).
Despite a challenging start with an early conceded penalty, Marseille turned the tide.
Ismaila Sarr then scored a superb goal, followed by Kondogbia, securing a 3-1 victory (5-3 on aggregate) and qualification for the next round.
Galatasaray, who won the first leg 3-2 against Sparta Prague, had a tough night in the Czech Republic.
Reduced to 10 men, the Turks lost 4-1, thus exiting the competition after being relegated from the Champions League.
Sporting Lisbon comfortably secured their spot in the round of 16, holding a crucial home draw against Young Boys.
Viktor Gyokeres opened the scoring, but Sylvere Ganvoula equalized with a penalty. Sporting qualified with a 4-2 aggregate score.
Lastly, AS Roma and Feyenoord Rotterdam faced off after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
The match in Italy ended the same way, with extra time failing to break the deadlock.
The decision came down to a penalty shootout, where AS Roma proved more adept, qualifying for the round of 16.
