Sparta Prague 3-0 Salzburg: Hosts end 21-year wait for Champions League win in style

Sparta Prague enjoyed a fine return to the Champions League on Wednesday, recording a 3-0 win over Salzburg in their first game in Europe’s top club competition in 19 years.

Sparta grabbed an early lead that set the tone for the league-phase opener at the Epet Arena as home fans celebrated their team’s first win in the tournament since 2003.

The hosts opened the scoring just two minutes in when Kaan Kairinen pounced on a loose ball after a great save by Salzburg goalkeeper Janis Blaswich, effortlessly slotting home the rebound.

Victor Olantuji then doubled their lead in the 42nd minute, firing in from a tight angle after taking in a long ball over the top from captain Filip Panak.

Olantuji then turned provider as the hosts killed the game off just before the hour mark, assisting Qazim Laci for a coolly struck finish after a cheap giveaway from Salzburg.

Sparta Prague outclass RB Salzburg to secure their biggest UEFA Champions League win in 23 years. pic.twitter.com/XgDAtmoPB3

— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) September 18, 2024

Data Debrief: Long wait ends for Sparta

Sparta’s victory, their first in the Champions League since beating Lazio 1-0 in December 2003, saw them halt a 14-game winless run in the competition (four draws, 10 losses).

It is also the first time they have ever started a Champions League campaign with a win, on their eighth appearance in the competition proper.