Lech Poznan vs Shakhtar Donetsk

Shakhtar Donetsk seized control of their Europa Conference League round-of-16 tie with a commanding 3-1 first-leg victory away to Lech Poznan. Marlon Gomes broke the deadlock on 36 minutes, and the visitors wasted no time after the break as Newertton doubled the lead just three minutes into the second half. Lech briefly rallied when veteran striker Mikael Ishak pulled one back on 70 minutes, injecting life into the home crowd at the Municipal Stadium. But any hopes of a comeback were snuffed out by Isaque, who restored the two-goal cushion with a clinical finish five minutes from time. Shakhtar dominated throughout, enjoying 56% possession and outshooting their hosts 16 to 8. It was a feisty affair too, with six yellow cards dished out across both sides. The Ukrainians now take a hefty advantage into next week's second leg, leaving Lech with a mountain to climb if they are to stay in the competition.