Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their hopes of Champions League qualification after a setback for English clubs in Europe.
Liverpool were the only winners in their Europa League round of 16 match, with a 5-1 victory over Sparta Prague. However, West Ham United and Brighton and Hove Albion both suffered defeats, making it a tough night for Premier League sides on Thursday.
SC Freiburg scored in the 81st minute from Michael Gregoritsch to get revenge on West Ham in their first-leg, after the London side had beaten the Bundesliga club twice in the group stage.
United-linked Roberto De Zerbi's return to Italy was not a happy one as Brighton lost 4-0 to last year's Europa League finalists Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. READ MORE: It is time for United to restore Ferguson's ruthless rule READ MORE: The 21 United players who could leave this summer From the 2024/25 season, the Champions League will grow its group stages from 32 teams to 36 teams, after a format change from UEFA.