Find the results of the French clubs involved in the Europa League this Thursday evening.
Following the precious success of Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16 first leg of the Champions League against Real Sociedad (2-0), the other representatives of French football were out this Thursday evening at the lower level, for the round of 32 of the Europa League. They did not have the same success. The evening began with the draw won by Olympique de Marseille in Hamburg against Shakhtar Donetsk (2-2).
Rennes was no match
But other Ligue 1 teams faced even tougher adversities. All eyes were particularly focused on San Siro, the legendary den of Milan clubs, where the Rossoneri faced Stade Rennais. A great moment in the European history of the Breton club. Julien Stéphan’s team threw all its strength into being up to the event, but it was no match for the experience of its opponent (0-3 defeat). One man hurt the Rennes: Loftus-Cheek, who traumatized the Parisians at San Siro. The English international was the author of a double in this meeting (32nd, 47th), before Rafael Leao added another score (53rd).
Lens is still alive
For its part, Racing Club de Lens hosted Friborg after being transferred to this Europa League following their third place in the group stage of the Champions League. The Sang et Or remain alive for qualification even if they have to settle for a goalless draw against a well-organized and tactically very coherent opponent (0-0). Despite a disallowed goal for Franck Haise’s men, it was the Germans who had the best situations in this highly contested balance of power. Everything will be decided on the return to the other side of the Rhine.
Toulouse remains hopeful
Finally, Toulouse, as amazing on the European scene as they were laborious in Ligue 1, continued their daydream in the lair of Benfica. A very perilous trip against a Portuguese team much more experienced in continental games. The Toulouse residents were unable to resist the strike force of the team led by former Parisian Angel Di Maria (1-2). Benfica also made the difference with its world champion. The left-hander converted two penalties (68th, 90th + 8), but the goal scored by Desler in the meantime (75th) allows Téfécé to maintain hope.