Thursday’s UEFA Europa League second-leg clash between Anderlecht and Fenerbahce was temporarily halted for 15 minutes due to disturbances in the stands. However, off the pitch, Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho found himself in a rather awkward yet affectionate interaction with an Anderlecht steward.

Fenerbahce, who had secured a dominant 3-0 lead in the first leg in Turkey, increased their aggregate advantage to 4-0 early in the second leg. Youssef En-Nesyri found the back of the net just four minutes into the match in Belgium.

But shortly after, chaos broke out in the stands as fans clashed, prompting the referee to stop the game. Riot police swiftly moved in to manage the situation, while stewards worked to keep order. The stadium’s big screen displayed messages urging fans to calm down, but the disruption led the referee, Sandro Schaerer, to call for both teams to retreat to the center of the pitch and head back to the dressing rooms.

Following a delay of around 15 minutes, the match resumed with Anderlecht quickly getting on the scoreboard. Luis Vazquez pulled one back for the Belgian side in the 19th minute, making it 1-1 on the night.

The game saw no more goals in the first half, but a memorable moment occurred on the sidelines. Mourinho was caught on camera sharing a somewhat awkward, yet friendly, hug with a steward who was significantly shorter than him. The steward, initially smiling, seemed a bit taken aback by the embrace. The incident was aired live on TNT Sports 3, with the commentator humorously remarking, “Jose’s made a friend!”

The match ended in a 2-2 draw after second-half goals from Vazquez and Yusuf Akcicek, with Fenerbahce progressing to the round of 16 with a 5-2 aggregate win. Mourinho’s side will face either Rangers or Olympiacos in the next round.

Since making a temporary switch to Real Betis during the January transfer window, Antony has wasted no time in making an impact. The Brazilian winger has already contributed three goals and an assist in just four matches, a stark contrast to his challenging stint at Manchester United.

Antony, who arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in 2022 for a hefty £85 million fee, never truly found his rhythm in the Premier League. Across 96 appearances, he managed only 12 goals and five assists, failing to justify his price tag. With United looking to cut costs and offer him a fresh start, a loan move to Real Betis became the perfect opportunity.

Now thriving under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini, Antony is rediscovering his best form. His recent standout performance included a goal and an assist in Betis’ commanding 3-0 victory over Real Sociedad in LaLiga. The winger credits his resurgence to his new environment, stating, “I wake up every day with a smile!”

Speaking to Betis TV, Antony emphasized how his happiness has translated into improved performances. “The most important thing is that I have found myself again,” he explained. “I am enjoying every moment, and when we are happy and content, things naturally fall into place. I have worked hard, both mentally and physically, to be at this level.”

Despite the evident contrast between his struggles at United and his current success in Spain, Antony remained diplomatic about his former club. “I had great moments in Manchester too. I won two titles and I am very grateful for that,” he acknowledged. However, he couldn’t help but highlight the stark difference in atmosphere. “Here, I feel at home. The people remind me of Brazil, and even the sunshine makes a difference. I’m truly happy here.”

While Antony is still under contract with Manchester United until June 2027, his revitalization at Real Betis raises questions about his long-term future. With his resurgence in Spain, it remains to be seen whether United will welcome him back with open arms or if a permanent move away is on the horizon.