Fenerbahçe secured a 2-0 victory against Sturm Graz in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round, taking a crucial advantage into the return fixture, according to match reports. Goals from Anderson Talisca and Mason Greenwood powered the Turkish side at home ahead of the decisive second match scheduled for August 11, 2026.
Talisca and Greenwood Strike to Secure First-Leg Advantage
Fenerbahçe established control early in the match when Marco Asensio slipped a pass to Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who fed Talisca for a clinical finish from the left angle in the 10th minute, as detailed by Spor Arena. Just before halftime in the 45th minute, Asensio delivered a low corner kick to the edge of the penalty area where Greenwood met it with a fierce strike into the near post to double the lead.
Did you know? Mason Greenwood made his first start for Fenerbahçe in this European fixture, having previously only appeared as a substitute following his high-profile transfer.
Squad Rotations and Tactical Choices by İsmail Kartal
Fenerbahçe manager İsmail Kartal made two changes to his starting lineup compared to the recent Gornik Zabrze matches, benching Fred Rodrigues and İrfan Can Kahveci in favor of Greenwood and N’Golo Kante, according to official team disclosures. Mert Günok started in goal behind a defensive line consisting of Nelson Semedo, Milan Skriniar, Nathan Ake, and Jayden Oosterwolde. Kante and Matteo Guendouzi anchored the midfield, while Greenwood, Asensio, and Kerem supported Talisca in the attacking third.
Second-Half Action and Injury Concerns
The second half featured sustained pressure from the hosts, including a 59th-minute sequence where Greenwood tested the Sturm Graz goalkeeper following a quick give-and-go with Asensio. Later in the half, Skriniar launched a long ball to Kerem, whose touch set up Talisca for a shot that was cleared by the defense. The victory was marred slightly when Jayden Oosterwolde suffered an injury and had to be replaced by Archie Brown, while late substitute Oğuz Aydın created a stoppage-time chance for İrfan Can that was deflected away.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Sturm Graz vs. Fenerbahçe return match?
The second leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round will be played away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, starting at 21:30, according to club announcements.
Who scored the goals in the first leg?
Anderson Talisca opened the scoring in the 10th minute, and Mason Greenwood added the second goal in the 45th minute.
What was the final score of the first leg?
Fenerbahçe defeated Sturm Graz 2-0 at home.
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