UEFA Europa League: Liverpool Dominant, Roma and Bayer

In a scintillating display of attacking prowess, Liverpool seized control of their UEFA Europa League last-16 tie with a resounding 5-1 victory over Sparta Prague at Stadion Letna. Returning to this stage of the competition for the first time since 2015/16, Sparta Prague sought a strong start in front of their passionate home supporters.

However, it was Liverpool who asserted their dominance early on, capitalizing on their opponents’ defensive vulnerability. Within the opening five minutes, Alexis Mac Allister converted from the penalty spot after being fouled by Asger Sorensen, granting the visitors a crucial lead.

Despite Sparta’s spirited response, including a close-range effort from Lukas Haraslin superbly saved by Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, the visitors extended their advantage through Darwin Nunez’s long-range strike in the 25th minute.

Football Full Results | Schedule

Both teams continued to create opportunities throughout the first half, with Liverpool adding a third just before halftime courtesy of Nunez’s sublime half-volley. Sparta Prague, however, pulled one back early in the second half through an own goal, only for Liverpool to swiftly respond with Luis Diaz’s close-range finish.

As the match progressed, Liverpool maintained control, introducing key players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah to manage the game’s tempo. In stoppage time, Szoboszlai added a fifth goal, securing Liverpool’s first away knockout win in the Europa League in 11 matches.

Meanwhile, in other early last-16 fixtures, Bayer Leverkusen faced a stern test against Qarabag in Baku. Despite falling behind 2-0, Bayer Leverkusen displayed resilience to salvage a draw, with Patrik Schick’s late strike leveling the scores.

In Rome, AS Roma delivered a commanding performance against Brighton, securing a convincing 4-0 victory in their first leg encounter. Under the guidance of recently-appointed coach Daniele De Rossi, Roma showcased their resurgence, leaving Brighton with a mountain to climb in the return leg.

Liverpool’s commanding display and Roma’s emphatic victory highlight the unpredictable nature of the Europa League, where each match presents its own set of challenges and surprises. As the tournament progresses, the stage is set for further drama and excitement as teams vie for a coveted spot in the quarter-finals.