Champions League play-off first legs conclude with draws

On August 18, 2026, two key Champions League play-off matches took place as part of the qualification round for the League Phase. In Istanbul, Fenerbahçe and Lyon played to a 1-1 draw. Lyon opened the scoring in the 40th minute through Openda, following a Tolisso cross, while Greenwood equalized for the hosts shortly after the second half began in the 47th minute. Despite a late opportunity from Fenerbahçe’s Nene, who hit the post in the 83rd minute, neither side could secure a victory.

Simultaneously, Dinamo Zagreb faced Viking in Croatia. While the match details remain partial, reports confirm it also ended in a draw, with the hosts having initially established a 2-0 lead within the first ten minutes. These results leave the qualification status for both ties completely open ahead of the return legs, which are scheduled for August 25 and 26. Coaches had to manage squad absences, with players such as Osterwolde, Moussa, and Gunok unavailable for Fenerbahçe, while Lyon missed Tagliafico, Schulz, and Meta. Dinamo Zagreb was also without the suspended Filipovic, and Viking faced the match without Bartholsen.