Europa Drama Unfolds: Final Day of Third Qualifying Round Across Europe

As Thursday rolls in, football fans across Europe are in for a feast of action — with no fewer than 41 matches set to light up the night in the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League.

Among the clubs fighting for continental glory are representatives from Ukraine, including the historic powerhouse Shakhtar Donetsk and ambitious underdogs Polissya Zhytomyr.

Shakhtar vs Panathinaikos: Stalemate Sets Stage for Decisive Second Leg

Shakhtar Donetsk are eyeing a place in the Europa League playoff round but must overcome Panathinaikos after a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg in Athens. The Ukrainian side held firm away from home, but the job is far from done.

The winner of tonight's clash will move on to face either FC Utrecht or Servette FC, making this a must-win scenario for the Ukrainian giants.

Polissya in Control, but Fiorentina Looms

In the Europa Conference League, Polissya Zhytomyr have one foot in the next round after a commanding 3-0 victory over Hungarian side Paksi FC in the first leg. With such a solid cushion, the Ukrainian debutants are favourites to progress — but a daunting challenge awaits.

If they complete the job tonight, Polissya will face a European heavyweight in the final qualifying round: last season’s runners-up, Fiorentina. The clash would mark a historic moment for the club from Zhytomyr — a true David vs Goliath matchup on the horizon.

Kick-off Times and Schedule

The first wave of matches begins at 16:00 CET, with the final whistles blowing well past midnight.