UEL: Porto Edges Red Bull Salzburg 1-0 in UEFA Europa League Opener

William Gomes scores late winner for Porto against Salzburg

Porto secured a 1-0 win over Red Bull Salzburg in the UEFA Europa League. Evanilson's late goal proved decisive in the match.

This win marked a successful start to Porto's UEFA Europa League campaign, demonstrating their ability to grind out results against tough opposition...

Porto secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Red Bull Salzburg in their UEFA Europa League opener, with Evanilson scoring the decisive goal in the 70th minute to seal the win for the Portuguese side.

The match was marked by intense action from both teams, with Porto coming close to scoring in the early stages. Borja Sainz's powerful half-volley hit the crossbar, while Red Bull Salzburg's Petar Ratkov had a promising chance thwarted by a crucial clearance from Arsenal loanee Jakub Kiwior.

On 21 minutes, the Polish international had the ball in the Salzburg net, but referee Vassilis Fotias was wise to a blatant handball by Samu Agehowa in the build-up, and thus ruled the goal out.

On balance, the first half was evenly contested with both sides creating good chances, and Salzburg captain Mads Bidstrup tested Costa after robbing Sainz on the edge of the box.

Porto leave it late 🥵#UEL pic.twitter.com/gMXuAV6uQ2

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) September 25, 2025

However, it was the Dragoes who finished the half on top, with both Victor Froholdt and Gabri Veiga coming close, but ultimately, an entertaining first half finished goalless.

The second half began with Red Bull Salzburg creating scoring opportunities, and Petar Ratkov capitalized on a rebound after Moussa Yeo's shot was stopped. However, the VAR officials intervened, and the goal was disallowed due to Yeo being offside.

Despite having several promising chances in the first half, Red Bull Salzburg struggled to create clear opportunities after the restart. The team's inability to capitalize on their chances was notable, especially given their strong start to the season, which had seen them win seven consecutive games.

Red Bull Salzburg had a golden opportunity to take the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining, but Yorbe Vertessen's effort was wide of the post after a defense-splitting pass. Costa's quick reflexes forced Vertessen into a rushed shot.

Porto capitalized on Salzburg's mistake in the final minutes of the game. Substitute William Gomes scored the winning goal, curling a low shot into the net. The goalkeeper, Alexander Schager, should have made a better save, but Porto secured the win, continuing their perfect start to the season.