AFCON 2025
The UEFA Europa Conference League delivered another night of surprises and storylines across Europe, as underdogs stunned established names and group favourites stumbled.
In England, Crystal Palace suffered a frustrating 1–0 home defeat to AEK Larnaca, marking a disappointing start to their campaign. The Cypriot side grabbed the only goal through Riad Bajic after a defensive lapse by Jaydee Canvot.
Despite Palace dominating possession and creating several chances, including efforts from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah, they could not find an equaliser. Manager Oliver Glasner now faces an uphill task to keep his side’s European hopes alive.
Over in Germany, Mainz 05 made it two wins from two with a 1–0 victory against Zrinjski Mostar. Young striker Nelson Weiper scored midway through the first half, before Zrinjski’s Igor Savić was sent off to make Mainz’s job easier. Coach Bo Henriksen rotated heavily but still oversaw a professional, composed display.
Elsewhere across Europe, several fixtures provided unexpected outcomes. Lincoln Red Imps of Gibraltar earned a historic 2–1 win over Lech Poznań, pulling off one of the shocks of the night.
Meanwhile, Turkish side Samsunspor crushed Dynamo Kyiv 3–0, with goals from Anthony Musaba and Marius Mouandilmadji setting the tone for a dominant performance.
In Malta, Ħamrun Spartans battled bravely but lost 1–0 to Lausanne-Sport, with Gaoussou Diakité scoring the decisive goal in the 38th minute. Shamrock Rovers also endured disappointment on home soil, falling 2–0 to Slovenia’s Celje at Tallaght Stadium after a clinical second-half showing from the visitors.
There were draws in Olomouc and Craiova. Sigma Olomouc and Raków Częstochowa shared a 1–1 stalemate, while Universitatea Craiova were held by FC Noah in Romania, both sides leaving the field with mixed emotions after balanced encounters.
