Champions League third qualifying round: Slovan Bratislava, Levski Sofia, Fenerbahçe, Aarhus win first legs

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the first legs of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round were played. Slovan Bratislava beat Mjällby 2-1, Levski Sofia defeated Kairat Almaty 1-0, Fenerbahçe won 2-0 against Sturm Graz, and Aarhus overcame Sabah 2-1. Other results included Ararat-Armenia 2-1 Celje, Hapoel Beer-Sheva 1-0 Crvena Zvezda, GNK Dinamo 5-0 Kauno Žalgiris, Olympiacos 0-0 N.E.C., Union SG 3-3 Bodø/Glimt, and Sparta Praha 2-1 Lyon. The second legs will take place next Tuesday and Wednesday, with winners advancing to the play-off round of their respective path; losers from the Champions path drop into the UEFA Europa League play-off round.

These outcomes shape the pool of teams that could meet African champions in the play-off stage, affecting potential matchups for Nigerian clubs chasing continental glory. Fans who follow European football can see which sides are edging closer to the group stage and consider how their progress might influence the draw for African representatives.

Will you be tracking any of these clubs as they pursue a group‑stage spot, and how might their success affect your favorite African club's chances in the upcoming qualifiers?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/06/uefa-champions-league-all-results-of-third-qualifying-round/