Who will secure their spot in the Europa League Round of 16? The second leg of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League Knockout playoffs is set to take place on February 20, 2025, where 16 teams are ready for the battle to take a spot in the Round 16. The stakes are high as each team, fueled by determination, aims to outperform their opponents and advance in the tournament. Fans can expect an intense and thrilling matchday as the clubs vie for glory on the European stage.
The first leg of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League knockout playoffs was a spectacle of unexpected drama, upsets, and late twists, setting the stage for thrilling leg two clashes. Royale Union SG faced Ajax at King Baudouin Stadium (Brussels). Two goals from Ajax in the second half, courtesy of Christian Rasmussen and Jorthy Mokio, led the team to a 2-0 victory. Meanwhile, Midtjylland was defeated by Real Sociedad with a score of 1-2. The whole game took place in the first half; in the 11th minute of the match, Brais Mendez shot the game’s first goal for Real Sociedad, followed by another goal in the 31st minute with the help of Takefusa Kubo. Before the end of the first half, Adam Buksa marked the first goal for Midtjylland, but unfortunately, they could not score points in the second half, where both teams struggled to turn their chances into goals.
The one goal from Mohammed Abu Fani made Ferencvaros win the leg one game of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League against Plzen. On the game day, they had a ball possession of 42%, with 12 goal attempts and three shots on goal. Leg one game was phenomenal for Fenerbahce, who showed their well-balanced attack and defense and won against Anderlecht with a dominant score of 3-0. Thanks to Dusan Tadic, Edin Dzeko, and Youssef En Nesyri, who led the team towards success. Bodo/Glimt lost the match to Twente by a margin of one point with a scoreline of 1-2. Sayfallah Ltaief and Ricky van Wolfswinkel shot goals for Twente, and one goal for Bodo/Glimt was from
Patrick Berg. The match between PAOK and FCSB was intense. In the 21st minute, Ally Samatta scored the first goal for PAOK and took the early lead. At the same time, Taison received a red card for Unsportsmanlike conduct. Still, in the second half, FCSB found the rhythm, took control, and won the game with a score of 2-1.
On the other hand, FC Porto and AS Roma wrapped up their leg-one game in a 1-1 draw. While AZ Alkmaar’s performance in the first leg of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League was extraordinary, defeating Galatasaray with a dominant score of 4-1. The goals contributed to AZ Alkmaar were Sven Mijnans, Troy Parrott, Jordy Clasie, and David Moller Wolfe. With these exciting results, the triumph teams look forward to continuing their moment. On the other hand, the team that lost the match is looking for a way to keep their qualification for Round 16 hope alive. If you are a sports enthusiast and don’t want to miss your favorite sports events, check out our website and be updated on all sports.
AS Roma vs. FC Porto
After ending the first leg of the 2024-25 Europa League knockout playoffs in a 1-1 draw, AS Roma and FC Porto are prepared for the second leg, aiming to advance to the round of 16.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 12:45 PM EST | 05:45 PM GMT | 11:15 PM IST
Venue: Stadio Olimpico (Rome)
AS Roma remains undefeated at home in the Europa League this season, achieving three victories and one draw, thanks to their strong defense, conceding only six goals in eight matches. Additionally, they are on an eight-match unbeaten streak in Serie A, registering five wins and three draws, including a 1-0 victory against Venezia shortly before this game. In contrast, FC Porto has secured only one win in their last five away European games, grappling with defensive issues that saw them concede 11 goals over eight Europa League matches. Recently, they have gone unbeaten in their last four games, with one win and three draws. Historically, FC Porto has a slight edge with three wins, two draws, and one loss in their six encounters, but the recent 1-1 draw in the first leg has leveled the playing field. Therefore, a close win for AS Roma is anticipated, considering AS Roma’s home advantage alongside FC Porto’s defensive weaknesses.
Bodo/Glimt vs. Twente
Bodo/Glimt and FC Twente will play in the second leg of their Europa League playoff tie. Twente holds a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 12:45 PM EST | 05:45 PM GMT | 11:15 PM IST
Venue: Aspmyra Stadion (Bodø)
Bodo/Glimt, the champions from Norway, have established themselves as strong competitors in European tournaments. They concluded the group stage with 14 points, achieving four wins and two draws, demonstrating their capability to face formidable teams like Manchester United and Besiktas. However, they have struggled with inconsistency lately, highlighted by a concerning 5-3 defeat in a friendly against Aalborg, which raised doubts about their defensive strength. In contrast, Twente has shown strong performance in the Eredivisie and the Europa League. They wrapped up the group stage with 10 points, securing notable victories against Malmo FF and Besiktas. Their recent 2-1 win over Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of this playoff tie revealed their attacking strength, thanks to Sayfallah Ltaief and Ricky van Wolfswinkel’s goals. Based on the first-leg outcome and current forms, FC Twente seems to have a slight advantage, yet Bodo/Glimt’s resilience and attacking talent should not be overlooked.
FCSB vs. PAOK
The Europa League knockout playoff clash between FCSB and PAOK will occur on Thursday. It will be thrilling as both teams vie for a spot in the last 16.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 12:45 PM EST | 05:45 PM GMT | 11:15 PM IST
Venue: Arena Nationala (Bucharest)
FCSB confidently approaches this match following their 2-1 away victory in the first leg. Goals from Andrei Gheorghita and Joyskim Dawa were pivotal in this success, demonstrating their capability to perform under pressure. Over their last seven matches, FCSB has achieved four wins, two draws, and one loss, averaging 1.4 goals scored and 0.9 conceded per game. Their home performances have been strong, with key players like Gheorghita and Dawa making significant contributions in critical moments. Conversely, PAOK has faced challenges in recent Europa League knockout games, failing to win in their last eight attempts. Nonetheless, they have displayed resilience in domestic play, notably with a 5-0 win against OFI Crete in their previous league match. Mbwana Samatta, who netted a goal in the first leg, remains a significant threat. However, PAOK’s defensive weaknesses have been evident, as they have conceded two or more goals in four of their last seven matches. Considering FCSB’s robust home record and PAOK’s recent difficulties in knockout rounds, FCSB appears to have a slight advantage in this game.
Galatasaray vs. AZ Alkmaar
Following their disappointing defeat in leg one, Galatasaray returned home for two of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League knockout playoff against AZ Alkmaar.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 12:45 PM EST | 05:45 PM GMT | 11:15 PM IST
Venue: Rams Park (Istanbul)
Although Galatasaray leads the Turkish Super Lig, they have demonstrated defensive weaknesses in Europe, allowing goals in all eight group-stage matches. Their offense, spearheaded by Victor Osimhen and Alvaro Morata, remains strong, but injuries to Mauro Icardi and Yunus Akgun may impact their effectiveness. AZ Alkmaar finished the group stage in impressive form with 11 points, including a 4-1 win over Galatasaray earlier this season. Galatasaray is expected to take an attacking stance, capitalizing on their home ground, while AZ Alkmaar will aim for solid defense and counter-attacking opportunities. The first leg concluded in a 1-1 draw, creating a closely matched tie. While Galatasaray’s striking capabilities make them slight favorites, AZ Alkmaar’s tenacity and past victories against them should not be overlooked. A high-scoring match is anticipated, with both sides likely to score. A draw appears possible, allowing AZ Alkmaar to progress on away goals.
Ajax vs. Royale Union SG
Ajax and Royale Union SG are all set for their second head-to-head football game for the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League knockout playoff showdown.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 03:00 PM EST | 08:00 PM GMT | 01:30 AM IST (Next Day)
Venue: Johan Cruijff Arena (Amsterdam)
Ajax is currently in excellent form, having secured victories in four of their last five matches, including a 2-0 win against Royale Union SG in the first leg. This performance highlights their strong defense and attacking capabilities, with Victor Osimhen and Alvaro Morata at the forefront. Although Royale Union SG has faced challenges recently, they have demonstrated resilience in the Belgian Pro League, thanks partly to Franjo Ivanović, who has netted nine goals in their last six home games. Ajax boasts a solid home record in the Europa League, with three wins and just one loss, whereas Royale Union SG has struggled on the road, achieving only one win in their past four away matches. The tactical approach of Ajax, led by Francesco Farioli, prioritizes ball possession and swift transitions, which could be a key factor in the game. Meanwhile, Royale Union SG will depend on their counter-attacking strategy and Ivanović’s form. However, Ajax’s high-scoring offense may take advantage of any defensive gaps. Given Ajax’s current strong performance and their home advantage, a win for Ajax is anticipated, with expectations that both teams will find the net in an exciting match.
Anderlecht vs. Fenerbahce
Fenerbahce will play Anderlecht again in the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League knockout playoff leg two.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 03:00 PM EST | 08:00 PM GMT | 01:30 AM IST (Next Day)
Venue: Lotto Park (Anderlecht)
Fenerbahce leads with a solid 3-0 aggregate from the first leg, driven by goals from Dusan Tadic, Edin Dzeko, and Youssef En-Nesyri. These strikes highlight the team’s attacking strength and strategic discipline under Jose Mourinho. Despite playing at home, Anderlecht faces a daunting challenge, having struggled defensively and securing only one win in their last five matches across competitions. In contrast, Fenerbahce is performing exceptionally well, boasting five wins and a draw from their previous six games while conceding just six goals. Mourinho’s pragmatic tactics and Tadic and En-Nesyri’s offensive capabilities position Fenerbahce as the frontrunner to progress. Anderlecht’s European home performance has been erratic, recording two wins, one draw, and one loss, whereas Fenerbahce has shown strength away from home. Considering Fenerbahce’s recent success and Anderlecht’s defensive lapses, Fenerbahce stands a better chance of winning this match.
Plzen vs. Ferencvaros
In the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League knockout playoff, Plzen and Ferencvaros will battle in leg two.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 03:00 PM EST | 08:00 PM GMT | 01:30 AM IST (Next Day)
Venue: Doosan Arena (Plzen)
Plzen enters the match with a robust home track record, winning 17 of their last 20 games at home. In contrast, Ferencvaros has faced difficulties away from home, recording 14 losses in their previous 21 away matches. Plzen’s recent performance has been notable, with crucial contributions from players like Matěj Vydra and Pavel Sulc in the offense. Meanwhile, Ferencvaros relies on Barnabas Varga’s scoring ability and coach Robbie Keane’s tactical strategy. However, Ferencvaros has been inconsistent, achieving a 1-0 victory over Plzen in the first leg but also drawing 0-0 with MTK Budapest and tying 2-2 with Zalaegerzegi. Plzen’s strong defense and capacity to seize scoring chances give them an advantage, though Ferencvaros’s tenacity in close games should not be underestimated. Both teams exhibit weaknesses, as Plzen has conceded goals in their last three matches, and Ferencvaros struggles with consistency. Given their recent form and home-field advantage, Plzen will likely secure the win.
Real Sociedad vs. Midtjylland
Leg two will conclude with the battle between Real Sociedad and Midtjylland. Sociedad, holding a 2-1 aggregate lead from the first leg, and Midtjylland are in a position to show dominance in this game.
Match Details:
Date: February 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 03:00 PM EST | 08:00 PM GMT | 01:30 AM IST (Next Day)
Venue: Reale Arena (San Sebastian)
Real Sociedad heads into this match in great shape, having won four of their last five outings in different competitions. They notably defeated Espanyol 2-1 in La Liga and claimed a 2-0 victory against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey. Their performance in the Europa League has also been strong, highlighted by three consecutive home wins in the group stage, which included clean sheets against Ajax, Dynamo Kyiv, and PAOK. On the other hand, Midtjylland has been solid in the Danish Superliga but has struggled in European contests recently. They completed the Europa League group stage with 11 points but have only secured one victory in their last four away matches. Given Real Sociedad’s strong home form and Midtjylland’s uneven away track record, the Spanish side seems to have a slight edge. However, Midtjylland’s resilience and recent form shouldn’t be overlooked. Expect a fiercely contested match where both teams will likely score, with a predicted 2-1 win for Real Sociedad, advancing them 4-2 on aggregate.
