Summary of Europa League matches: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang matches a goalscoring record, Galatasaray secures a last-minute victory.
HAMBURG, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 15: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Olympique Marseille celebrates his goal with teammates during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 round of 16 first leg match between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Olympique de Marseille at Volksparkstadio.
Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang has etched his name in the history books, joining Radamel Falcao as the all-time leading goalscorer in the UEFA Europa League. The thrilling encounter between Shakhtar Donetsk and Marseille ended in a dramatic draw.
The match got off to a delayed start as smoke from the fans filled the stadium. However, once the action began, Aubameyang wasted no time in making his mark. He found the back of the net in the 60th minute, scoring his 30th goal in the competition and giving Marseille the lead.
But the hosts’ joy was short-lived as Mykola Matviyenko swiftly equalized for Shakhtar just two minutes later. Marseille thought they had secured victory when Iliman Ndiaye scored in the dying minutes, but Shakhtar had other plans. Eguinaldo struck back instantly, ensuring a vital draw for his team.
Meanwhile, the clash between Galatasaray and Sparta Prague was filled with excitement and late drama. Both teams ended the match with 10 players, and it was Galatasaray who took control in the first half with Kerem Demirbay’s goal. However, Ladislav Krejci’s own goal leveled the match. The situation worsened for Galatasaray when Victor Nelsson was sent off, but Jan Kuchta’s goal brought Sparta Prague back into contention. In the end, Mauro Icardi’s 91st-minute strike secured victory for Galatasaray.
Controversy marred Sporting Lisbon’s 3-1 win against Young Boys. Marcus Edwards won a penalty at the end of the first half, with David von Ballmoos appearing to clip his feet. However, replays showed minimal contact, raising questions about the decision. Viktor Gyokeres converted the penalty, doubling Sporting Lisbon’s lead and helping them secure a crucial away win.
In other Europa League round of 32 first leg results, Feyenoord and AS Roma played out a 1-1 draw, while Galatasaray narrowly defeated Sparta Prague 3-2. Shakhtar Donetsk and Marseille ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, and Sporting Lisbon emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Young Boys.