Tuesday’s Champions League third qualifying round saw a series of high-stakes clashes, with Ranger’s hopes dashed by a late Dynamo Kyiv surge, while Fenerbahce’s ambitions under Jose Mourinho were halted by Lille.
Rangers were left to rue a contentious red card as two goals in the final 10 minutes from Dynamo Kyiv substitutes Oleksandr Pikhalonok and Nazar Voloshyn ended their Champions League aspirations. Manager Philippe Clement lamented the impact on the team’s finances and transfer plans, citing the importance of the competition for the club’s rebuild.
In Turkey, a dramatic encounter between Fenerbahce and Lille culminated in a penalty shootout, with Jonathan David converting the decisive kick to secure Lille’s place in the next round. Despite Bafode Diakite’s own goal forcing extra time, Fenerbahce could not capitalize on their opportunities, notably a Cenk Tosun header that struck the bar.
Elsewhere, Slovan Bratislava overcame APOEL Nicosia 2-0 on aggregate, setting up a play-off tie against Midtjylland, who dispatched Ferencvaros 3-1. Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt eased through with a 4-1 win over Jagiellonia Bialystok, while Malmo edged PAOK in a thrilling 6-5 aggregate victory, with Nils Zetterstrom scoring a dramatic extra-time winner.
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