Europa League 2020/21 began last night with plenty of super clubs lined up to start the race. Most of the favorites took home the three points, and we’re already getting a glimpse into who will most likely challenge for the UEL trophy. Here are football’s biggest stars from Round 1 of the competition.
Marco Bizot (AZ Alkmaar)
AZ Alkmaar’s victory may not be front-page news. However, while AZ is hardly a tournament favorite, they are certainly not just along for the ride. They managed to shock Napoli, defeating them 1-0 in an away fixture. The three points count even more considering the fact that AZ was 13 players short after they tested positive for coronavirus.
A lot of the credit has to go to goalkeeper Marco Bizot who was tried throughout the game. The Dutchman was Man of the Match making five important saves and keeping a vital clean sheet.
David Luiz (Chelsea)
David Luiz may get heckled by Chelsea supporters on frequent occasions, but the defender proved his considerable worth against Rapid Wien. The Austrians went one goal up following an error by Bernd Leno. Luiz managed the equalizer soon afterward before Pierre Aubameyang wrapped up the game. The Brazilian may still have his critics, but, clearly, Mikel Arteta considers him an important member of the squad.
Yusuf Yazici (Lille OSC)
Lille OSC are backed by some to be Ligue 1’s surprise package this season. Last year they finished all the way in fourth place, and they are taking advantage of the opportunity of playing in the Europa League.
The French side won 4-1 away to Sparta Prague. Yusuf Yazici, in his second season for the club, scored a hat-trick before being subbed-off in the 80th minute. These type of performances on such a large stage are surely to catch the eye of scouts and pundits alike.
Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester)
On a memorable night in Europe, Kelechi Iheanacho finally seemed to reaffirm hopes that he will become an elite-striker. The Nigerian bagged a goal and an assist as the Foxes cruised by Zorya. It ended 3-0 and manager Brendan Rodgers will hope to see more of the same from his talented center-forward.
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