Manchester United’s Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Twente at a rain-soaked Old Trafford. The Red Devils took the lead in the first half through a spectacular curling effort from Christian Eriksen, who unleashed a powerful shot from inside the box that found the top corner. However, the Dutch side fought back in the second half, equalizing in the 68th minute thanks to a clinical finish from Sam Lammers, who beat Andre Onana at the near post. Despite a late flurry of attacks, United couldn’t find a winner, with Twente’s well-organized defense proving difficult to break down.
Meanwhile, Lazio enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 victory over Dynamo Kyiv in Hamburg. Boulaye Dia was the star of the show, scoring a brace in the first half before Fisayo Dele-Bashiru added a third goal to seal the win. In another convincing performance, Galatasaray secured a 3-1 home win against Greece’s PAOK. Abdul Rahman Baba’s own goal put the Turkish champions ahead before Yunus Akgun and Mauro Icardi added further goals to seal the victory. Giannis Konstantelias scored a consolation goal for the visitors.
In an early match, Bodo/Glimt pulled off a surprise 3-2 home victory against FC Porto. Jens Petter Hauge was the hero for the Norwegian side, scoring a brace to secure the win despite his team going down to 10 men in the 51st minute. This victory serves as a reminder that the Europa League can be a competition full of surprises, where any team can upset the odds.
