Matchday 1 Highlights
The league phase of the UEFA Europa League kicked off on September 24, 2025, delivering 18 matches over two days. Fans were treated to a mix of nail‑biting finishes and dominant displays. Notable results included:
- Roma edged Nice 2‑1 in a tightly contested match.
- Aston Villa secured a 1‑0 win over Bologna, thanks to a solitary strike.
- Porto held Red Bull Salzburg to a clean sheet, winning 1‑0.
- Panathinaikos thumped Young Boys 4‑1, showcasing attacking flair.
- Dinamo Zagreb outclassed Fenerbahçe 3‑1 with a strong second‑half surge.
- PAOK and Maccabi Tel Aviv finished 0‑0, while Red Star Belgrade and Celtic shared a 1‑1 draw.
Overall, 36 clubs are battling through the league stage, which will run until January 29, 2026, before moving into the knockout rounds.
How to Watch the Europa League for Free
Even though the official broadcasters charge a subscription, there are a few legitimate pathways for cost‑free viewing:
- Free‑to‑air TV channels: In several European markets, national public broadcasters have rights to air selected Europa League matches without a pay‑wall. Check your local listings for match slots.
- Official club websites and apps: Some clubs stream highlights or even live coverage of games not reserved for pay‑TV, especially in regions where they hold secondary rights.
- Social media platforms: UEFA often streams short clips, live press conferences, and occasional match highlights on YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. While not a full game, they keep you in the loop.
- Free trials of streaming services: Services that carry the competition—like Paramount+, DAZN or Amazon Prime—frequently offer 7‑day trials. Signing up just for a matchday can give you live access at no cost.
Fans should stay wary of unofficial streams that promise free access but run the risk of malware or legal trouble. The safest route is to combine the options above: watch the free‑to‑air broadcast when available, supplement with official club streams for highlights, and use a short trial if a particular game isn’t on free TV.
As the tournament progresses, more matches will shift to premium channels, so keeping an eye on weekly broadcasting schedules becomes essential. By staying informed, you can enjoy the drama of the Europa League without breaking the bank.