Union Saint-Gilloise’s dream run in the Europa Conference League hit a snag on Thursday evening, as they fell 0-3 to Fenerbahce in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie.
The match, played at Lotto Park in Brussels, saw Union start brightly but concede the opening goal midway through the first half. Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi, on loan at Fenerbahce, capitalized on a rebound to put the visitors ahead in the 20th minute.
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Despite their best efforts, Union failed to find the equalizer in the second half. Chances from Alessio Castro-Montes and Cameron Puertas went close, but ultimately the Belgian side couldn’t break through Fenerbahce’s defense.
Fenerbahce extinguished any remaining hope for Union with two late goals. Jayden Oosterwolde doubled their lead in the 84th minute, before Dusan Tadic converted a penalty in injury time after a handball by Christian Burgess.
The result puts Fenerbahce in a strong position heading into the return leg, which will be played next Thursday in Istanbul at 18:45. Union Saint-Gilloise now face a significant uphill battle to keep their European dream alive.
