European Champion Italy took a big step Tuesday toward being able to defend its title. The highest-stakes game of the evening was centre stage at gambling sites and saw Italy secure a vital 2-1 win over Ukraine in the UEFA Euro Qualifiers 2024 as they finished second in the group led by England. Two first-half goals by Davide Frattesi in his home stadium at San Siro gave new coach Luciano Spalletti a first win after a tension-filled draw at North Macedonia on Saturday.
Italy's improved and more energetic performance survived Ukraine forward Andriy Yarmolenko cutting the lead before halftime. Italy and Ukraine are tied on seven points with North Macedonia, which beat Malta 2-0. But they have the most demanding schedule, trailing six behind England. Spalletti's team must face them at Wembley Stadium next month. A possible scenario is a decisive final-round game between Ukraine and Italy on Nov 20.
Italy would like to secure their spot as soon as possible after not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2022. They are the defending UEFA Euro Champions but couldn't qualify for the biggest competition of World Football after getting knocked out by North Macedonia. The players are keen to play in the UEFA Euros again to build upon this.
In the other game, North Macedonia defeated Malta by 2-0 which also saw them with 7 points.
AFC and CONCACAF Chiefs express concerns over 64-team World Cup expansion
AFC president, Shaikh Salman, and Concacaf president, Victor Montagliani, have raised their voices against the proposal of expansion to a 64-team World Cup.
The controversy over the potential increase in the 2030 FIFA World Cup roster to 64 teams has gained momentum, with key football officials coming out to oppose it. The Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have joined forces against this controversial suggestion.
Should the 2030 World Cup be expanded to 64 teamsโ๐ ๐
Alejandro Dominguez, president of CONMEBOL, is proposing a one-time expansion of the 2030 Men's World Cup to 64 teams to mark the tournamentโs 100th anniversary.
Concacaf chief Victor Montagliani has joined the increasing call to oppose the plan to increase the World Cup teams to 64, claiming increasing the number of teams "would not be the right move".
AFC president Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa also warned against the expansion to 64 teams and the โchaosโ it could lead to, telling Agence France Press (AFP), โPersonally, I donโt agree."
AFC and CONCACAF Presidents show concerns over expansion
Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez. (Image Source | X)
In March's FIFA Council, Uruguayan football chief Ignacio Alonso proposed expansion of the 2030 World Cup. FIFA later announced that it would study the proposal.
Since then, Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez has been the frontrunning campaigner for an expansion to 64 teams. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been silent on the idea, but according to sources close to FIFA, he favours the plan and came up with it in the first place.
๐จ An official proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams has been put forward by the South American Football Confederation. ๐๐
โ Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 11, 2025
Conmebol have often been his path to market for alterations that he desires โ the most stunning of these recently having been for a biennial World Cup cycle.
Last week, Dominguez supported a tournament extension from 48 teams to 64 teams in the 2030 World Cup as a once-off for the centenary celebrations for the global finals. Dominguez said:
We are convinced that the celebration of the centenary will be something unique, because it has only once been 100 years old. And for this reason, we are proposing, for one, to carry out this anniversary with 64 teams, across three simultaneous continents. So that all countries have the opportunity to live a world experience, and so that no one is left out of this party even if it is played everywhere, it is our party.
Victor Montagliani, Concacaf President. (Image Source | X)
With Victor Montagliani joining the mounting anti-64-team World Cup campaign, he is joined by fellow FIFA vice presidents Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa (AFC president) and UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.
Following Infantino, they are the next three strongest political officials in the world governing body. Montagliani told ESPN:
At Concacaf, weโve shown that we are open to change by supporting the Womenโs World Cup expansion and the continuous evolution of our Confederationโs menโs and womenโs national team and club events,โ
I donโt believe expanding the menโs World Cup to 64 teams is the right move for the tournament itself and the broader football ecosystem, from national teams to club competitions, leagues, and players.
AFC president Sheikh Salman and FIFA president Gianni Infantino in 2022. (Image Source | X)
Yesterday, AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa cautioned against expansion to 64 teams and the 'chaos' it might bring, telling Agence France-Presse: "Personally, I don't agree." He further stated:
If the question is open to amendment, then the door will not only be open to increasing the tournament to 64 teams,"
But somebody will come along and insist on increasing the amount to 132 teams. Where would we get to then? It would be chaos.
Even the president of UEFA, Aleksander Ceferin, who also serves as FIFA vice president, joined the chorus of criticism. He stated:
It is not a good idea for the World Cup itself, and it's not a good idea for our qualifiers as well,"
I don't know where it came from, but it's odd that we didn't know anything prior to this proposal at the FIFA Council."
Excitement is rising for the first-ever 48-team World Cup to be staged in 2026 by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This event is a huge rise from the traditional 32-team setup, and any further expansion to 64 would double matches to a mind-boggling 128. Contrary to this, the forthcoming 2026 event will host 104 matches to be staged in 16 host cities.
The logistical issues for the 2030 World Cup are already significant, with its games spread across three continents. Its initial host nations are Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, but Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina will be hosting the milestone opening games, marking a century since the tournament's first edition was held in Uruguay.
FIFA has yet to comment publicly on the feasibility of this proposal, although they did confirm their duty to consider it.
The proposal is expected to be a subject of debate at FIFA's upcoming 75th Congress, which takes place annually on May 15 in Paraguay's capital, Asunciรณn, which houses the headquarters of Conmebol. The congress agenda is yet to be published, but the plan for a 64-team World Cup will supposedly receive intense local lobbying in the backrooms and corridors of FIFA.
UEFA reportedly starts to develop blueprints for Russia's return in football
According to reports, UEFA has reportedly started the groundwork to initiate Russia's return to club and international football only if a ceasefire is established in Ukraine.
UEFA has not ruled out the chances of Russia returning to football competitions around the globe if a total ceasefire is agreed upon in Ukraine. This was reported by the renowned British publication 'The Independent', citing its own sources.
The UEFA bans follow the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, sparking universal international criticism, such as FIFA and UEFA's March 2022 ban of Russian teams from every football competition.
However, UEFA has reportedly opened the groundwork to facilitate Russia's return in club and international football, with growing tensions within the members in UEFA.
UEFA may revoke the long-standing ban on Russian teams
Alexander Ceferin and Gianni Infantino. (Image Credit | Getty)
Next week, a UEFA congress will reportedly be held in Belgrade, and insiders say that plans are underway to bring Russian clubs and the national team back into official tournaments.
The publication states that UEFA is already formulating possible measures for restoring Russia's involvement in international football tournaments. It underlines that Russia still has immense power in world football, and there is growing pressure within UEFA on this issue.
The Independent further asserts that the main reason for the suspension of Russian teams by FIFA and UEFA after the beginning of the large-scale invasion of Ukraine was not so much moral principles as a practical necessity.
Russia's national football team last participated in the EURO 2020. (image Source | X)
Sources suggest that 12 European football associations signaled their willingness to boycott matches against Russian clubs, with the expectation that the figure could be as high as 18. In this case, football authorities would be faced with the decision of excluding a large number of national teams or only one. The suspension of Russia was therefore motivated by "technical" considerations and not political ideology.
The article points out that UEFA and FIFA attempt to avoid suspending nations for political reasons in order to stay away from being involved in the complicated legal scenario of every international conflict.
๐จ FIFA president Gianni Infantino has revealed he would like to see Russia return to play in the World Cup in the future. ๐ท๐บ
๐จ The Ukrainian FA says Russia's return to international football would 'ignore the suffering of thousands'. pic.twitter.com/8f7qLaTxqM
โ Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) March 1, 2025
Earlier, UEFA President Alexander Ceferin made the point about football being employed as a tool for creating peace. He said he believed that contact between children from different nations could build understanding and destroy enmities.
Meanwhile, Ceferin also spoke of a "ferocious attack by politicians," especially those on the left wing, against the suggestion that young Russian teams should be brought back in club and international football.
Andriy Shevchenko calls on UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin to visit him in Ukraine and to reconsider letting Russia return to international football @SkySportspic.twitter.com/3K1NhuXdes
Back in 2023, UEFA overturned the decision that allowed Russia to return to international competitions, specifically the U-17 age group. Ukraine, England, Poland, Romania, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Denmark threatened to withdraw if such a thing happens, AP reported.
๐จ UEFA has spoken out in favour of Russia returning to European competitions at youth level! ๐๐ท๐บ
โUEFA no longer wants children to be punished for actions for which adults are solely responsible.โ
The Independent reports that the suspension of Russia will continue to remain in effect until a complete ceasefire is reached in Ukraine.
Nevertheless, top officials at UEFA are already preparing a plan for bringing back Russian teams in the case of peace, when sport can once again be "center stage." A halt of aggression by Russia would, therefore be followed by a said normalization in the world of sport.
Italy vs Germany UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-Finals 1st leg Highlights | Germany stamps a comeback victory over Italy in Milan, secures lead in the tie | FT ITA 1-2 GER
Catch the highlights of the Italy vs Germany UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-Finals 1st leg match at the San Siro Stadium, Milan, Italy.
Hello and welcome to another big night of international football. Tonight, we will be covering three out of four UEFA Nations League 2025 quarterfinals.
This is Soumit Bhattacharya, with the buildup, news, LIVE updates, scores, and free commentary of the Italy vs Germany UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-final 1st Leg match.
Italy qualified for the quarter-finals after securing 13 points in 6 matches, finishing second in the League A Group 2. On the other, Germany topped the League A Group 3, having earned 14 points in 6 games.
This sets up an engaging match-up between two of the biggest powerhouses of European football in the UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals. So, sit back and relax as we bring you everything on the Italy vs Germany match from the web desk.
Enjoy the coverage and don't forget to refresh the page timely to get the latest updates.
LIVE Updates
Mar 20, 2025, 9:59 PM
Thank you and stay tuned!
We will be back with more LIVE coverages during this international break.
Hope you enjoyed the coverage!
That was all from this side tonight.
Good night and stay tuned with us!
Leon Goretzka and Kleindienst's goals helped Germany rebound from a 0- 1 loss to Italy and win 2-1.
Germany stamps a brilliant comeback win to beat Italy 2-1 in their own backyard at San Siro.
Sandro Tonali opened the scoring with a powerful strike, only nine minutes into the game. The Azzuris kept the lead until the break, as Tim Kleindienst slotted home a header in the 49th minute, only after coming off the bench at half-time. Leon Goretzka netted the winner in the 76th minute, handing Germany a one-goal cushion ahead of the second leg next week.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann's pin-point substitutions worked well for Germany, whereas skipper Joshua Kimmich put up a masterful performance, providing assists for both goals.
Despite a decent performance in the first half, Luciano Spaletti's men failed to keep up with the tempo in the second half.
Germany will welcome Italy at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund for the second-leg encounter on March 24th.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:42 PM
90'+6' | The full-time whistle is blown! | FT ITA 1-2 GER
Wir gewinnen in Mailand! ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ Danke fรผr eure รผberragende Unterstรผtzung! 3.500 Fans vor Ort! ๐คโค๏ธ๐#ITAGER#dfbteam ๐ธ DFB/Philipp Reinhard pic.twitter.com/3b1IBzw6hh
One last effort from the Azzuris as Tonali sailed a long-ranger across the field into the box, as Frattesi's header went way wide off the left post.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:40 PM
90'+3' | Play resumes
The game has resummed after Ricardo Calafiori received medical attention following his clash with Karim Adeyemi.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:36 PM
90' | 4 minutes of stoppage time added on
Mar 20, 2025, 9:36 PM
90' | Substitution for Germany
In: Robert Andrich
Out: Pascal Gross
Mar 20, 2025, 9:35 PM
85' | Save from Baumann
The veteran keeper has been solid since conceding the first goal, as he stretched his hands out to deny a flashy strike from Maldini from a distance.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:30 PM
83' | Substitutions for Italy
In: Lorenzo Lucca, Davide Frattesi
Out: Moise Kean, Nicolo Barella
Mar 20, 2025, 9:28 PM
82' | Substituion for Germany
In: Karim Adeyemi
Out: Leroy Sane
Mar 20, 2025, 9:24 PM
76' | GOALLLLL! Goretzka heads it in! ITA 1-2 GER
Joshua Kimmich. THAT'S IT!
Kimmich floated another vicious cross from the corner on the left, which was perfectly met by Goretzka inside the box, and flicked into the net.
Nagelsmann's men are now ahead!
Mar 20, 2025, 9:21 PM
74' | Maldini gets booked
Daniele Maldini receives a booking for a tough challenge.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:18 PM
71' | Substitution for Italy
In: Daniele Maldini
Out: Giacomo Raspadori
Mar 20, 2025, 9:15 PM
68' | Huge save from Baumann!
Raspadori found himself on the left in a one-on-one against Baumann inside the box, but his strike targeting the far post was intervened by Baumann, who stretched his left leg to block the shot!
Mar 20, 2025, 9:13 PM
67' | That was close!
Tonali did a sublime backheel to play it back to Kean inside the box, whose powerful strike soared past the target.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:12 PM
66' | Substituion for Germany
In: Jamie Leweling
Out: Nadiem Amiri
Mar 20, 2025, 9:10 PM
64' | Substitutions for Italy
In: Raoul Bellnova, Samuele Ricci
Out : Matteo Politano, Nicolo Rovella
Mar 20, 2025, 9:04 PM
56' | Amiri gets a yellow
Nadiem Amiri, the German midfielder is now booked for an offence.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:03 PM
56' | Off target for Udogie
Udogie attempted to find the net with a header right from the middle of the box but skied it over the bar.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:00 PM
53' | Great block by Donnarumma!
Udogie followed the ball as Kimmich tried to get a hold of it close to the six-yard box, but Donnarumma came off the line to make a crucial block!
Mar 20, 2025, 8:59 PM
52' | Rovella gets booked
Italian midfielder Nicolo Rovella gets the first booking of the evening for a foul on Goretzka.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:57 PM
49' | GOALLL! Kleindienst finds the net! | ITA 1-1 GER
An absolutely brilliant cross by Kimmich sailed into the box from the right, as Kleindienst had risen above all to send the ball past Donnarumma, bringing Germany back in the business.
The first touch from the new entrant, and he equalizes for Germany!
Mar 20, 2025, 8:53 PM
46' | Second half begins
Mar 20, 2025, 8:53 PM
Half-time substitutions | Germany
In: Tim Kleindienst, Nico Schlotterbeck
Out: Jonathan Burkardt, David Raum
Mar 20, 2025, 8:35 PM
45'+3' | The half-time whistle is blown. | HT ITA 1-0 GER
โ Nazionale Italiana โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ (@Azzurri) March 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025, 8:33 PM
45' | 2 minutes of additional time announced
Mar 20, 2025, 8:32 PM
44' | Germans keep Azzuris on pressure
Gross almost fell over Donnrumma while trying to anticipate the corner, but fouled him instead. Rudiger disagreed, but the decision stands.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:31 PM
42' | Amiri sends it over
Amiri, the new German starter, sailed the free-kick just inches over the crosspiece, following a set-piece right off the edge of the penalty area.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:28 PM
39' | Save by Donnrumma!
Donnarumma dived forward to send the ball past the line following a cut-in pass from Amiri.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:27 PM
38' | Chance for Germany
Raum's cross from the set-piece free-kick from the right went past everyone inside the box.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:20 PM
32' | Another huge save from Baumann!
Moise Kean found himself getting chased by two opposition defenders inside the box, but before they could catch up, Kean utilized the power and took a strike. However, Baumann made another great stop, putting the ball over the top.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:18 PM
30' | Briliant stop from Baumann
Tonali sliced another full-paced long-range strike on target from a second ball, but this time, Baumann made a brilliant stop on his goalmouth, putting his body completely behind the ball.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:16 PM
28' | Donnarumma clears
Donnarumma has always been one of the best goalkeepers in case of outings. He again showed his prowess, coming off his line to drift away a cross by Kimmich from the left corner.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:12 PM
23' | Germany is pushing
Italy somehow managed to keep the ball off the net, as Donnarumma put his fingertips on a long ball to drift it away. Italy's defence line stayed alert to block two other shots as well.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:10 PM
22' | Good clearence from Rudiger
Barella and Politano again combined up in the right upfront, as Barella looked for Kean inside the box, but Rudiger headed the ball away, showcasing a brave piece of defending.
โ Nazionale Italiana โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ (@Azzurri) March 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025, 8:08 PM
20' | Donnarumma collects
Goretzka had another attempt at goal with a first-touch strike from a distance, but Donnarumma dived forward to claim it well and good.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:04 PM
15' | Off target from Goretzka
That was a sublime cross from Kimmich from the right flank, which Goretzka met in the middle of the box, but powered his header just over the crosspiece.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:59 PM
9' | GOALLLL! Tonali slots it home! | ITA 1-0 GER
A fierce start from the Azzuris!
Barella curled in a beautiful grounded pass into the box which Politano received, breezed the ball past Baumann but Tah cleared away. However, Sandro Tonali anticipated it just outside of the 18-yard box and just rocketed it home with a right-footed half-volleyed strike!
One shot. One goal. Italy ahead!
Mar 20, 2025, 7:52 PM
4' | Easy collection for Baumann
Barella unleashed a beautiful Trivela pass for Raspadori, running upwards in a counter, but Baumann had the ball in his gloves.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:51 PM
3' | End-to-end display
Inside the first 15 seconds, Germany earned a corner. On the contrary, Italy initiated a quick counter-attack.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:47 PM
1' | Kick Off!
The match is underway at the iconic San Siro!
Mar 20, 2025, 7:45 PM
Things are definitely heating up!
Italy defeated Germany 2-0 in extra time in Dortmund in the 2006 FIFA World Cup semifinal ๐ฉ๐ช
โ Nazionale Italiana โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ (@Azzurri) March 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025, 7:15 PM
The beautiful San Siro
Mar 20, 2025, 7:13 PM
Line-up | Germany
Starting XI: Oliver Baumann (GK); Joshua Kimmich (C), Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rรผdiger, David Raum; Pascal Groร, Leon Goretzka; Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, Nadiem Amiri; Jonathan Burkardt
โ Italy โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ (@Azzurri_En) March 14, 2025
Mar 20, 2025, 4:36 PM
Last 5 meetings
Competition
Date
Home
Score
Away
Nations League
2022/06/15
Germany
5 - 2
Italy
Nations League
2022/06/05
Italy
1 - 1
Germany
INT FRL
2016/11/16
Italy
0 - 0
Germany
UEFA EURO
2016/07/03
Germany
1 - 1
Italy
INT FRL
2016/03/30
Germany
4 - 1
Italy
Mar 20, 2025, 4:35 PM
Italy vs Germany | Head-to-head stats
Matches Played: 37
Italy won: 15
Germany won: 9
Draws: 13
Mar 20, 2025, 4:34 PM
The venue | San Siro
Mar 20, 2025, 4:29 PM
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Italy vs Germany UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 1st leg match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Mar 20, 2025, 4:28 PM
Match Details
Match: Italy vs Germany
Tournament: UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-Finals 1st leg
What would you rather choose? Crashing out in the UCL semis or winning the Europa League
In this special article, Sport Point examines the advantages and disadvantages of either crashing out in the Champions League semifinals or winning the Europa League.
UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League are the two pinnacles of European club tournaments, awarding the coveted continental silverware to the top clubs in Europe.
Borth tournaments are prestigious for clubs competing in these, and hold different merits and various aspects of prizes that come with these silverware.
However, if you are a fan of a top club that crashed out of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, you would definitely be disheartened. But, on the other end, if your club clinches the Europa League, would you celebrate it in the same manner when your club reached the UCL semis?
This may be a tough choice for fans who naturally covet the utmost success for their beloved clubs. But this question may always arise in every football fan's mind, which one is better to choose? Crashing out in the UCL semis or winning the Europa League?
Sportz Point delves into this interesting discussion through this article.
Crashing out of UEFA Champions League Semis: Pros and Cons
(Image Credit | Al Jazeera)
Advantages
Playing in the UEFA Champions League is already competing at the highest level, and reaching the semifinals is a very significant achievement.
If a mid-table club in the top five European leagues manages, or a club that belongs to a league other than the lower coefficients in the UEFA European leagues ranking, reaching this level can also provide valuable experience for the team and contribute to their reputation.
Reaching the semifinals demonstrates a lot about the team. It means they were able to overcome the best clubs in Europe and reach the knockout stage.
If looked at from a monetary point of view, the UCL semifinalists receive a prize money of โฌ15 million that helps the teams to look forward to their future. The Champions League also draws more marketing or TV ratings.
UEFA prize money distribution (as of 31 Jan):
7โฃ3โฃ% to UCL clubs (โฌ2.14 billion) 1โฃ8โฃ% to UEL clubs (โฌ528 million) 9โฃ% to UECL clubs (โฌ265 million) pic.twitter.com/anllbpFPQK
Losing at this stage can be disappointing, especially if the team had induced high hopes of winning the tournament. For example, Ajax in the 2018-19 UCL claimed attention in the best possible way, beating defending champions Real Madrid on the way, but crashed out of the semi-finals.
If a team loses in the semifinals without winning anything in the domestic league, it will be considered a disastrous trophyless season. Very few people would be impressed by a club simply for reaching the semifinals.
On the contrary, a semi-final defeat can disrupt a team's momentum, potentially affecting their performance in domestic competitions.
This also may lead to a massive exodus of players from the club, especially if the club is not an European powerhouse already. The top European players will go after the players who performed well for the team, leading to the dismantling of the core group, making it harder to repeat the feat in the future continental competitions.
Winning the UEFA Europa League: Pros and Cons
(Image Credit | Getty Images)
Advantages
For most of the clubs, winning a silverware is a huge achievement. Winning the Europa League has its own advantages, considering that most of the mid-table or apparently mediocre clubs compete in this tournament.
Winning the Europa League guarantees a continental silverware, which is always better than a trophy-less season. It also ensures a direct qualification in the next season's Champions League.
The winners of the Europa League also meet the Champions League winners in a season-end competition, called the UEFA Super Cup, which presents another opportunity to clinch another silverware.
Winning a major European trophy significantly enhances a club's global status and reputation. This success can attract sponsors, and elite players as well.
Disadvantages
The biggest drawback of taking part in the Europa League, particularly of winning it, is the scheduling of midweek games. This may lead to a congested fixture, resulting in fatigue among the players as well as higher injury risks. Consequently, this affects the players' performance within domestic leagues or other tournaments. The Thursday-Sunday format of the Europa League puts more pressure on players than the Tuesday-Wednesday format of the Champions League.
Although it is a big silverware, the Europa League is usually less prestigious than the Champions League, and therefore makes it less attractive than the clubs competing in the UCL.
Comparing to the Champions League, the Europa League offers lower prize money. This will be a downer for the clubs that are reliant on their European competition-generated revenue, more so those operating outside the major five European clubs.
The difference in prize money between 108 clubs playing UCL, UEL and UECL visualized. pic.twitter.com/T5IZwmOhsC
To be honest, it is subjective and depends on different contexts.
For a world-class team that can contest the Champions League, playing in the Europa League could be a disappointment or a consolation for the team, the management and mostly, for the supporters.
However, if a team has no practical hope of winning the Champions League but can contest the title for the Europa League, it would be preferable to lift the trophy instead of qualifying to the semi-finals.
In conclusion, the Champions League semi-final defeat is an indicator of greater competition and ability, while the Europa League win is a concrete victory. So, we can say that there is no definite 'better' result between these two.
Real Sociedad vs Manchester United Highlights UEFA Europa League 2024-25 | Manchester United Held by Real Sociedad After Confident Oyarzabal Penalty Round of 16 First Leg | FT RSO 1-1 MUN
Catch the highlights of the Real Sociedad vs Manchester United RO16 First Leg match tonight in UEL 2024-25 at the Anoeta Stadium, Spain.
Hello and welcome to another LIVE coverage of European football. Tonight, we will bring you all the live updates, news, and live scores of the UEFA Europa League 2024-25Round of 16 First Leg face-off between Real Sociedad and Manchester United at the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastiรกn, Spain.
Real Sociedad advanced to the RO16 by thrashing FC Midtjylland 7-3 over two legs in the Europa League play-offs. Manchester United, on the contrary, are the only team that finished unbeaten in the league phase, positioned third on the leaderboard with 18 points in 8 matches.
Both teams are about to go against each other in an important match of the European campaign, setting up a fierce encounter. So, sit back and relax as Swastik Debnath and Soumit Bhattacharya get you the buildup, news, images, live scores, news, and updates of the Real Sociedad vs Manchester United match from our webdesk.
Moreover, you can follow us on Twitter for all the updates. Join our Telegram and WhatsApp channels to get all the news and scorelines.
Don't forget to refresh the page for latest updates. Enjoy the coverage!
LIVE Updates
Mar 6, 2025, 7:52 PM
Thank You and Stay Tuned!
This is it for this game.
Hope you enjoyed the Live match.
We will be back very soon with another Live.
Good Night, Stay Tuned!
Mar 6, 2025, 7:51 PM
Final Verdict
In a tightly contested match, Real Sociedad and Manchester United shared the spoils, with Joshua Zirkzee showcasing his skill with a brilliant goal in the 57th minute. However, the game took a dramatic turn when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a controversial penalty in the 70th minute, leveling the scoreline. The penalty decision will undoubtedly spark debate, but both sides ultimately deserved a point from this hard-fought encounter.
Mar 6, 2025, 7:44 PM
FULL TIME WHISTLE BLOWS! RSO 1-1 MUN
We're held to a draw in San Sebastian but it's all to play for in the second leg ๐#MUFC || #UEL
โ Real Sociedad Fรบtbol (@RealSociedad) March 6, 2025
Mar 6, 2025, 7:15 PM
68' | Potential VAR Check
A penalty shout in the United's box and the referee awarded the penalty as he confirmed Bruno Fernandes' hand ball.
Mar 6, 2025, 7:13 PM
64' | Change for Sociedad
IN: Pablo Marin
OUT:Beรฑat Turrientes
Mar 6, 2025, 7:12 PM
63' | Substitutions for Sociedad!
IN: Orri รskarsson, Jon Aramburu
OUT: Ander Barrenetxea, Aritz Elustondo
Mar 6, 2025, 7:06 PM
57' | GOALLL!!! RSO 0-1 MUN
The Red Devils take the lead. What an exceptional strike by Zirkzee. Garnacho makes a crucial pass into the box for Zirkzee, and his left-footed shot is strong enough to net the ball.
Zubeldia commits a foul on Hojlund, and the referee shows a yellow card to him
Mar 6, 2025, 6:54 PM
47' | Great defending by De Ligt!
Kubo crosses a beautiful ball from the right side of the pitch into the final third, but De Ligt blocks the cross.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:50 PM
46' | Second half Begins!
Real Sociedad 0-0 Manchester United
Mar 6, 2025, 6:40 PM
Hart-time verdict | HT RSO 0-0 MUN
Both teams were organised in an intense half of few chances, with a Garnacho effort from long range and a Zirkzee back-heel among United's attempts. The visitors twice looked dangerous from counterattacks โ a threat Real Sociedad will be wary of.
via Juan Dรญaz, UEL Reporter
Mar 6, 2025, 6:34 PM
45'+3' | The half-time whistle is blown! | HT RSO 0-0 MUN
Mar 6, 2025, 6:34 PM
45'+2' | Onana punches it away
Onana rose above the crowd and punched the ball away, clearing a looming threat from Sociedad.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:31 PM
45' | 3 minutes of added time confirmed
Mar 6, 2025, 6:31 PM
45' | Chance for Sociedad
Sucic was about to strike the ball from close to the goal, but the ball soared outside wide off the far post.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:29 PM
42' | Remiro collects it easily
Following a long ball by Bruno Fernandes from down the middle, Dalot powered a header on target, but Remiro made a routine collection.
Two on-target chances already for the Red Devils, but no goals whatsoever.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:25 PM
37' | That was close for United!
Garnacho and Dalot combined up on the right, resulting in Dalot finding Bruno in the middle of the box, but the United skipper's left-footed effort while going down was denied by Elustondo on the line!
Zirkzee found the second ball but fired it wide off the target!
Mar 6, 2025, 6:21 PM
34' | Chance for Sociedad
Kubo tried to find a channel in search of delivering a cross from the right, but United's defence forced the attack to end up in a corner.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:18 PM
30' | Two quarters are up!
In the last five minutes, the only noteworthy thing that happened is Dorgu getting a little bit uncomfortable, creating tension on the United bench. However, he is well and back on the pitch after receiving medical attention.
The game is now mostly being played in the middle of the park.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:12 PM
25' | The game has slowed down
It has been a slow approach from both sides in the last couple of minutes, culminating the game into a slow progression.
It's been a game of minimal chances so far, with La Real creating 0.07 expected goals (xG) and Man Utd producing 0.06.
More actions are yet to come!
Mar 6, 2025, 6:07 PM
20' | Off target for Dorgu
Garnacho was quickly covered by three of the opposition defenders inside the box, and he channeled a pass to Dorgu on the left. However, Dorgu cut inside and skied his shot way over the crosspiece.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:05 PM
18' | Wide from Turrientes
Turrientes slid past Bruo Fernandes and a Casmiro who threw a tackle; but his grounded shot went wide off the far post.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:03 PM
16' | Good collection from Onana
Barrenetxea floated a ball into the penalty area, hoping for the trigger strikers to anticipate it for a header, but Onana came up and collected it.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:59 PM
12' | Save from Remiro
Dorgu and Garnacho combined inside the box for an attempt at goal, but the Argentine's curling effort from the left was well-claimed by the Sociedad custodian.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:56 PM
9' | Effort from Hojlund
Hojlund might have created something out of the attack from te right flank, but the United forward got his heel clipped, extending the wait for a better opportunity to come.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:52 PM
5' | United stay alert
The hosts fiercely started the game, pressing upwards on the United defence. However, the Red Devils stayed alert in scanning the cross from the left, and blocking the shot afterwards.
โ UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 5, 2025
Mar 6, 2025, 2:40 PM
Last 5 meetings | Real Sociedad vs Man United
United defeated Sociedad 1-0 in the Anoeta in their last meeting. (Image Credit | The Independent)
Competition
Date
Home Team
Score
Away Team
UEFA Europa League
2022/11/03
Real Sociedad
0 - 1
Manchester United
UEFA Europa League
2022/09/09
Manchester United
0 - 1
Real Sociedad
UEFA Europa League
2021/02/26
Manchester United
0 - 0
Real Sociedad
UEFA Europa League
2021/02/18
Real Sociedad
0 - 4
Manchester United
UCL
2013/11/06
Real Sociedad
0 - 0
Manchester United
UCL
2013/10/24
Manchester United
1 - 0
Real Sociedad
Mar 6, 2025, 2:36 PM
Head-to-head stats (All Competitions)
Real Sociedad have won just one of their previous six European encounters against Manchester United (D2 L3), with that win coming in the group stage of this competition at Old Trafford in September 2022. They won that game 1-0 courtesy of a Brais Mรฉndez penalty, which remains their only goal against them.
Real Sociedad have never beaten an English side on home soil in Europe (D1 L3), failing to score in each of the last three matches (all against Man Utd). They are, however, one of six sides to score in 100% of their UEFA Europa League games this season (10/10), with Man Utd also doing so (8/8).
Man Utd have lost just one of their last eight away games against Spanish opposition in Europe (W5 D2), however that defeat did come in their most recent such encounter, losing 3-0 at Sevilla in the second leg of the 2022-23 UEFA Europa League quarter final.
Matches played: 6
Real Sociedad won: 1
Man United won: 3
Draws: 2
Mar 6, 2025, 2:32 PM
Tonight's Venue | Anoeta Stadium
Mar 6, 2025, 2:30 PM
How to watch the match?
The match will be streamed Live on the Sony Liv app and website. Viewers can also watch the game live on TV on Sony Sports Network.
Mar 6, 2025, 2:30 PM
Match Details
Match: Real Sociedad vs Manchester United
Tournament: UEFA Europa League 2024-25 Round of 16 tie, First Leg