Strasbourg Qualifies for Conference League Quarter-Finals!

Strasbourg advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday, despite a 1-1 draw with Rijeka at the Meinau Stadium. Valentin Barco scored for Strasbourg, leveling the match and securing their passage after a 2-1 victory in the first leg in Croatia.

Toni Fruk opened the scoring for Rijeka in the first half, briefly leveling the aggregate score. However, Barco’s goal in the second half proved decisive, setting up a quarterfinal clash with Mainz.

The match was not without its tense moments. A potential goal for Strasbourg’s Panichelli was ruled out for offside, and Rijeka pressed for a late equalizer, forcing Strasbourg goalkeeper Penders into action. Rijeka’s Radeljic received a yellow card in the second half.

Strasbourg manager Gary O’Neil made a substitution in the second half, bringing on Enciso for Rafael Luis. Rijeka also made changes, with Juric and Vignato replacing Husic and Goyak, respectively.

According to reports, Strasbourg will face Mainz on April 9th, with the return leg scheduled for April 16th at the Meinau. Mainz had earlier defeated Sigma Olomouc 2-0 to secure their place in the quarterfinals, having drawn the first leg 0-0. (Lequipe, March 19, 2026)

Strasbourg’s victory continues their strong recent form, remaining undefeated in seven matches across all competitions. The club is also pursuing a Coupe de France title, with a semi-final match against Nice scheduled for April. (Ouest-France, March 19, 2026)

The match saw several near misses, including a shot from Strasbourg’s Nanasi that narrowly missed the frame and a dangerous opportunity for Rijeka’s Fruk that was deflected by Strasbourg’s Doukouré. (RMC Sport, March 19, 2026)

A pre-season encounter between Strasbourg and Mainz last year ended in a 0-0 draw, offering a preview of their upcoming quarterfinal tie. (DNA, August 9, 2025)