UEFA Conference League Results: Drama And Upsets Reshape 2026 Playoff Picture
The third qualifying round of the 2026/27 UEFA Conference League concluded in thrilling fashion on August 13–14, 2026, delivering dramatic aggregate comebacks, penalty shootout heartbreak, and major upsets across the continent. With places in the crucial playoff round now locked in, several dark horses extended their European journeys while traditional contenders suffered early exits.
Below are the key results and aggregate scores from the decisive second-leg encounters:
| Matchup | 2nd Leg Score | Aggregate Score | Status / Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hajduk Split vs. Vitoria de Guimaraes | 2–1 | 3–2 (Agg) | Hajduk advance via 88th-minute winner |
| SK Rapid Wien vs. CSKA Sofia | 1–0 | 2–1 (Agg) | Rapid hold firm under late pressure |
| Rosenborg BK vs. Hammarby IF | 3–1 | 4–2 (Agg) | Rosenborg dominate second-half spell |
| Brondby IF vs. Legia Warsaw | 1–1 | 2–3 (Agg) | Legia defend stubbornly to secure spot |
| Aberdeen vs. CFR Cluj | 2–0 | 2–2 (5–4 p) | Aberdeen prevail in dramatic penalty shootout |
High-Stakes European Nights: Shock Eliminations and Penalty Thrillers
The third qualifying round delivered standard European chaos as clubs battled for financial survival and European prestige. Aberdeen provided the headline performance at Pittodrie, overcoming a two-goal first-leg deficit against CFR Cluj. After forcing extra time through a stoppage-time header, the Scottish side held their nerve in a grueling penalty shootout to seal their passage.
In Scandinavia, Rosenborg BK overturned an early threat from Sweden's Hammarby IF with three unanswered goals after the hour mark. The victory highlights a resurgent campaign for the Norwegian powerhouse, driven by disciplined pressing and rapid transition play.
Meanwhile, Legia Warsaw ground out a hard-fought draw away at Brondby IF, protecting their narrow first-leg lead. Despite intense Danish pressure during late injury time, Legia's compact defensive shape proved decisive, setting up an intriguing playoff tie next week.
- Standout Performer: Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan saved two penalties in the shootout.
- Biggest Surprise: CFR Cluj eliminated despite leading 2–0 on aggregate entering the second leg.
- Disciplined Displays: Austrian heavyweights SK Rapid Wien kept their second consecutive clean sheet to progress safely.
Playoff Round Pairings and Live Streaming Guide
With the third qualifying round finished, attention immediately turns to the 2026 UEFA Conference League Playoff Round. The fixtures represent the final hurdle before the coveted 36-team League Phase, where guaranteed broadcast revenues and European coefficient points await.
Supporters looking to follow the decisive upcoming legs on August 20 and August 27, 2026, can access broadcasts through regional rights holders and official streaming platforms:
- United Kingdom: TNT Sports and discovery+ (Live television and digital streaming).
- United States: Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network (English), ViX (Spanish).
- Europe: Local public broadcasters alongside UEFA.tv streaming packages in select territories.
- Audio & Match Trackers: Official real-time statistics and audio commentary remain accessible on the official UEFA app.
Match kickoff times for the upcoming playoff round will be finalized by UEFA officials later today, with evening games scheduled across standard 18:45 CET and 21:00 CET slots.
Conference League, results and round of 16 fixtures: Rayo and Strasbourg do well. Crystal Palace ...
The Road to the League Phase: What Lies Ahead in Europe
The stakes could not be higher for the 44 teams entering the playoff round. The losers of these two-legged ties face complete elimination from European competition for the 2026/27 season, while the winners secure entry into the main League Phase.
The draw for the newly expanded League Phase will take place on Friday, August 28, 2026. Under the Swiss-system format, qualifying clubs will be guaranteed six fixtures against six different opponents—three at home and three away—running from October through December.
As underdog sides continue to push traditional European mainstays to their limits, the final qualifying phase promises non-stop action as teams chase their dream of European glory.
