The 2025/26 UEFA Europa League kicked off with a thrilling set of fixtures on Saturday, September 24, delivering goals, grit, and a record-breaking moment that will echo through the annals of European football. From Danish dominance to Balkan resilience, Matchday 1 served up a rich tapestry of results—but none more poignant than the milestone etched by Nice’s evergreen captain, Dante.
Wednesday Matchday 1 Results
From Midtjylland’s commanding win over Sturm Graz to Real Betis and Nottingham Forest’s pulsating draw, the opening round showcased the competitive depth of the new league-phase format. Braga edged past Feyenoord with a narrow 1–0 win, while Dinamo Zagreb stunned Fenerbahçe with a clinical 3–1 performance in Croatia.
Dante: A Living Legend in Europa League Lore
Despite Nice’s 2–1 home defeat to Roma, the night belonged to Dante, the Brazilian centre-back who defied time and expectation. At 41 years old, Dante became the oldest outfield player in Europa League history, a testament to his longevity, leadership, and elite conditioning. He began his senior career in 2002.
Wearing the captain’s armband, Dante marshaled the backline with trademark composure, even as Roma’s attacking flair proved decisive. His presence on the pitch wasn’t just symbolic—it was inspirational. For a club like Nice, striving to make its mark in continental football, Dante’s milestone is a beacon of resilience and professionalism.
“Still going strong,” fans echoed across social media, as tributes poured in for the veteran who once lifted the Champions League with Bayern Munich and now continues to lead by example in Ligue 1 and Europe.
Key Talking Points
- Crvena Zvezda vs Celtic ended in a 1–1 stalemate, with both sides showing flashes of brilliance but lacking the final touch.
- Freiburg edged Basel in a tightly contested German-Swiss clash, while Ludogorets pulled off a surprise away win against Malmö.
- Real Betis and Nottingham Forest delivered one of the most entertaining matches of the day, with a 2–2 draw that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
As the Europa League unfolds, Matchday 1 has already set the tone for a season of unpredictability, passion, and historic moments. And while many players made their debuts, it was Dante’s enduring legacy that stole the spotlight—a reminder that age is just a number when greatness is your standard.
Thursday night Europa League fixtures are shown below:
