Europa League Action

Liverpool secured a nervy win over their rivals Everton at the weekend. The Reds raced to a 2-0 lead by halftime, with goals from Gravenberch and Ekitike. Everton fought back in the second half, scoring a late goal, but Liverpool held on to claim all three points.

A dramatic first half set the tone at Old Trafford, where Manchester United built a 2-0 halftime lead. Chelsea goalkeeper Sanchez was sent off just five minutes in after a reckless challenge, while United midfielder Casemiro had an eventful half, scoring, receiving a yellow, and then being sent off—all within 31 minutes. Chelsea pulled one back through Chalobah’s impressive header in the 80th minute, but United held firm to secure the win.

Erling Haaland continues to dazzle! The Manchester City striker has now scored five goals in his last four City games, alongside two assists, and added seven goals and two assists for Norway in the same period—an astonishing total of 11 goals and 4 assists across six matches. Despite Haaland’s heroics, City couldn’t claim all three points as Arsenal’s Martinelli scored a dramatic 93rd-minute winner over Donnarumma, earning the Gunners a crucial point.

After a 30-year absence from European competition, Premier League side Nottingham Forest finally make their long-awaited return to the continental stage. Heading the team is Ange Postecoglou, fresh off lifting the trophy with Tottenham last season. Both Forest and Real Betis are currently ranked as the third favorites to win this season’s Europa League, setting up an intriguing clash.

This will be the first competitive meeting between these two sides. Real Betis have historically struggled against English opposition, losing seven of their last nine encounters—including a heavy 4-1 defeat to Chelsea in last season’s Conference League. Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, bring a rich European pedigree, having won two European Cups in their history. However, Forest are currently finding their rhythm under Postecoglou, who is still embedding his high-intensity playing style.

Aston Villa are tipped as one of the favorites to lift the Europa League this season and will begin their campaign at home against Bologna. Last season, these two sides met in the Champions League, with Villa running out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from captain John McGinn and the now-departed Jhon Durán. That victory showcased Villa’s attacking potential and set up high expectations for their European campaign this year.

Adding an intriguing subplot to this match is Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson, the Scottish midfielder who will face off against his compatriot McGinn. Both players will be key to controlling the midfield, and their battle could be decisive in determining which side dominates the center of the park.

Despite their Champions League pedigree, Villa have endured a rocky start to the season, failing to win any of their first six competitive matches, recording three draws and three defeats. Bologna, on the other hand, have had a mixed start to their Serie A season, securing two wins and suffering two defeats, with losses coming against AC Milan and Roma. They bounced back at the weekend with a 2-1 victory, coming from behind thanks to goals from Castro and Orsolini.