Premier League Giants and Debutants Gear Up for Thrilling European Encounters
Premier League frontrunners Liverpool have been pitted against Sparta Prague in the Europa League last 16, while Brighton braces for a challenging duel against Italian giants Roma.
The Reds are slated to journey to the Czech capital for the initial leg on March 7, followed by a highly anticipated return fixture at Anfield a week later. Liverpool, boasting three previous Europa League triumphs, enter the clash with high hopes of further European success.
Brighton, amidst their inaugural European campaign, sets course for the vibrant Italian city after emerging as leaders of Group B, which included Marseille, Ajax, and AEK Athens.
Defending Europa Conference League champions West Ham find themselves in a battle against German outfit Freiburg, while Rangers square off against Portugal’s Benfica, a two-time European titleholder.
The Europa League final is scheduled to grace Dublin on May 22, promising an electrifying culmination to a fiercely contested tournament.
Liverpool’s advancement to the knockout phase was secured by topping Group E, while Sparta Prague, reigning Czech champions, clinched their spot in the round play-off by securing second place in Group C. Notably, the two clubs crossed paths in this very competition in 2011.
Brighton braces for a formidable test against Roma, who secured their spot in the last 16 with a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Feyenoord. The Giallorossi, navigating a transition phase post the dismissal of Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, pose a formidable challenge.
West Ham’s bout against Freiburg carries a sense of familiarity, with the Hammers having previously triumphed over their German counterparts in the group stage. Meanwhile, Scottish Premiership stalwarts Rangers brace for a stern test against Benfica, recalling their encounter in the Europa League group stage during the 2020-21 season.
Aston Villa, drawn against Dutch powerhouse Ajax in the Europa Conference League last 16, prepare for a spirited battle against the illustrious Amsterdam club, boasting four European championship titles.
As the European football landscape braces for the intensity of the knockout stages, anticipation surges among fans worldwide, eager to witness the drama and spectacle unfold on the continental stage.
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