The 2025 Conference League playoff first legs on February 13th delivered unforgettable moments, from Spanish dominance to underdog heroics and nail-biting finishes. Let’s dive into the action and relive the night’s biggest stories!
---
Real Betis Crush Gent in Statement Win
Result:
Gent 0-3 Real Betis** Betis turned on the style in Belgium, securing a commanding 3-0 victory. After a tense first half where Gent had a goal disallowed for offside, Antony broke the deadlock with a precise strike, followed by Isco’s slick finish and a third goal to seal the win.
Reaction:
*“Betis shifted gears brilliantly in the second half. Their composure and clinical edge make them serious contenders.”* – Gianmarco Mannara, Italian football journalist .
---
Shamrock Rovers Stun Molde with Gritty Away Win
Result:
Molde 0-1 Shamrock Rovers** The Irish side pulled off a tactical masterclass, with Graham Noonan’s 57th-minute goal securing a precious 1-0 away victory. Shamrock’s defense held firm against Molde’s pressure, putting them in pole position for the return leg.
Reaction:
*“This win is huge for Irish football. Shamrock showed heart and discipline – they’re writing history.”* – Claudio Franceschini, Sky Sport analyst .
---
Jagiellonia’s Comeback Steals the Show
Result:
Backa Topola 1-3 Jagiellonia** Trailing 1-0 early, the Polish side roared back with a double from Jose Imaz and a late strike from Pululu. Their relentless attack in the final 20 minutes stunned the Serbian hosts.
Reaction:
*“Jagiellonia’s resilience is the story here. They’re proving to be the tournament’s dark horse.”* – Sky Sport commentary team .
---
Vikingur’s Heartbreak After Late Panathinaikos Penalty
Result:
Vikingur 2-1 Panathinaikos** The Icelandic side led 2-0 but conceded a 91st-minute penalty to Ioannidis, leaving the tie delicately poised. Vikingur’s early goals from Atlason and Vilhjalmson weren’t enough to secure a clean win.
Reaction:
*“Panathinaikos showed character, but Vikingur will rue missed chances. The return leg will be fiery!”* – Greek sports analyst on Sky Sports .
---
Celje and APOEL Share Thrilling Draw
Result:
Celje 2-2 APOEL** A rollercoaster match saw Celje’s Zan Kucys score twice (including a penalty rebound), but APOEL fought back with goals from Abagna and Laifis to snatch a draw.
Reaction:
*“This game had everything – drama, goals, and a fair result. Both teams will fancy their chances in the second leg.”* – Slovenian football pundit .
---
Heidenheim Stun Copenhagen in Comeback Win
Result:
Copenhagen 1-2 Heidenheim** The German underdogs overturned a 1-0 deficit with two late goals, shocking the Danish champions on their home turf.
Reaction:
*“Heidenheim’s belief paid off. This is what European nights are about – sheer determination.”* – Bundesliga commentator .
---
Other Key Results
- Borac Banja Luka 1-0 Olimpija Lubiana: A tight Balkan clash saw Borac edge ahead with a solitary goal.
- Omonia Nicosia 1-1 Pafos: A tense Cypriot derby ended level, leaving everything to play for .
---
What’s Next?
The return legs promise more drama, with Betis and Shamrock Rovers favorites to advance. Keep an eye on Jagiellonia and Heidenheim – their momentum could carry them into the last 16. As for Panathinaikos and Vikingur? Expect fireworks!
*Stay tuned to our blog for more Conference League updates and expert analysis!*