The Europa League served up a night of thrilling action as Galatasaray and Bodo/Glimt secured crucial victories on Wednesday.
Galatasaray, the Turkish league leaders, dominated the first half against Swedish side Elfsborg, netting three goals to build a commanding lead. Mauro Icardi opened the scoring in the 28th minute, followed by Abdülkerim Bardakcı’s deflected header 11 minutes later. Barış Alper Yılmaz then added a third goal just before halftime, seemingly putting the game beyond reach.
However, Elfsborg refused to be disheartened and mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Niklas Hult pulled one back early in the second period, and Michael Baidoo halved the deficit from the penalty spot. But Yunus Akgun restored Galatasaray’s two-goal advantage with a stunning solo effort in the 83rd minute. Despite Johan Larsson’s late goal in stoppage time, Galatasaray held on to claim a hard-fought 4-3 victory.
Meanwhile, Bodo/Glimt needed a last-minute goal to secure a 2-1 win against Braga in Portugal. The Norwegian side went ahead early in the game, but Sikou Niakate equalized for Braga in the 64th minute before receiving his second yellow card and being sent off. Substitute Villads Nielsen then emerged as the hero for Bodo/Glimt, scoring the winning goal deep into stoppage time.
With both teams winning, Galatasaray and Bodo/Glimt are currently topping their respective groups in the revamped Europa League. The competition promises further excitement as sixteen more games are scheduled for Thursday, including a highly anticipated clash between Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and Manchester United.