The Play-off Round of UEFA Europa League Playoffs continued as the first legs took place on 17 August. The return legs will be played on 24 August.
Maritimo (Portugal) v Dynamo Kyiv (Ukraine) First Leg: 0-0
A scoreless draw against Ukrainian club Dynamo Kyiv wasn’t a bad result in Portugal but the return leg will surely be difficult. It would be nice to see Amir Abedzadeh between the posts for Maritimo when they visit the Ukrainian capitol but it is not very likely unless starting keeper Charles comes down with illness or injury.
Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia) v Skenderbeu Korce (Albania) First Leg: 1-1
Skenderbeu continue their fairy tale run in Europe and were minutes away from leaving Zagreb with a victory but conceded a late goal. Either way the return leg will be a battle but striker Reza Karimi will not be with his team on the bench.
PAOK FC (Greece) v Ostersund (Sweden) First Leg: 3-1
Ostersund have a huge mountain to climb after a 3-1 defeat to PAOK in Thessaloniki. In all honesty, it isn’t necessarily a huge mountain to climb but it won’t be easy. Iranian striker Saman Ghoddos was brought on in the 81st minute to try and provide a spark but I am hoping he will be starting in the return leg.