The first legs of the UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16 delivered a compelling narrative: away teams thriving. Three visiting sides secured victories, while only one home team managed a win, setting the stage for potentially dramatic return legs next week.
Strasbourg Stuns Rijeka in Croatia
RC Strasbourg delivered a significant upset in Rijeka, Croatia, securing a 2-1 victory against HNK Rijeka. The French side now carries a crucial advantage back to France for the second leg. Details regarding specific goal timings and match dynamics are currently limited, but the result itself signals a strong performance from Strasbourg on the road. The match took place on March 12, 2026, at Stadion HNK Rijeka Dean Šćulac, according to Sofascore.
Shakhtar Donetsk Impose Themselves in Poland
Shakhtar Donetsk showcased their attacking prowess with a commanding 3-1 win over Lech Poznań in Poland. Brazilian players Marlon Gomes (36′), Newerton (48′), and Isaque Silva (85′) all found the back of the net for Shakhtar, establishing a comfortable lead. Lech Poznań managed a consolation goal through Mikael Ishak in the 70th minute. Croatian defender Antonio Milić played the full 90 minutes for Lech Poznań, as reported by multiple sources including the BBC here.
Rayo Vallecano Secure Victory in Turkey
Rayo Vallecano mirrored Shakhtar’s result, also winning 3-1, this time against Samsunspor in Turkey. Alemau scored twice (15′, 78′) and Álvaro García added another (40′) for the Spanish side. Marius scored the lone goal for Samsunspor in the 21st minute. Notably, Croatian defender Toni Borevković remained on the bench for Samsunspor throughout the match.
AZ Alkmaar the Sole Home Winner
AZ Alkmaar provided the only home success of the evening, defeating Sparta Prague 2-1. Irish forward Troy Parrott emerged as the hero for AZ, scoring in both the 29th and 87th minutes. Matyáš Vojta managed to pull one back for Sparta Prague in the 50th minute, keeping their hopes alive for the return leg in Prague.
What’s Next? Return Legs Loom
The return legs are scheduled for next week, promising a thrilling set of fixtures. Strasbourg, Shakhtar Donetsk, and Rayo Vallecano will aim to defend their away goals advantage in front of their home supporters. Meanwhile, Sparta Prague will be tasked with overturning the deficit at home against AZ Alkmaar.
Tiago Dantas, a key player for Rijeka, acknowledged Strasbourg as a formidable opponent, potentially the strongest they’ve faced this season alongside Shakhtar Donetsk, according to 24sata. This assessment underscores the challenge Rijeka faces in the second leg.
The Conference League Round of 16 continues to deliver excitement, with the away teams demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure and secure crucial first-leg advantages. The upcoming return matches will undoubtedly be fiercely contested as teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals.
Fans can follow official UEFA channels for updates, schedules, and results throughout the competition. The next checkpoint for these teams is the second leg of the Round of 16, with dates and times to be confirmed by UEFA.
What are your predictions for the return legs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
