Conference League 2022-23: Final Standings & Results

Nov 15, 2025 by Alex Braham 53 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Conference League 2022-23 season, a thrilling ride for football fans across Europe. In this article, we'll break down the final standings and key results. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just catching up, you'll find all the essential info right here. Let's get started!

Group Stage Overview

The Conference League 2022-23 group stage was nothing short of spectacular. Teams from various nations battled it out, showcasing skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Understanding the dynamics of each group is crucial to appreciating the journey of the teams that advanced. Each group comprised four teams, and they played a round-robin, home-and-away format. The top team from each group automatically advanced to the Round of 16, while the runners-up entered a play-off round against teams dropping down from the Europa League.

Group A

In Group A, the competition was fierce. Teams like Istanbul Basaksehir, Fiorentina, Hearts, and RFS locked horns in a series of captivating matches. Istanbul Basaksehir emerged as the group winner with a solid performance, demonstrating their tactical prowess and consistency throughout the stage. Fiorentina secured the second spot, displaying resilience and fighting spirit. Their head-to-head clashes were particularly exciting, filled with dramatic moments and tactical adjustments. Hearts and RFS, though they didn't advance, contributed to the group's overall competitiveness, making each match a must-watch. The group showcased a mix of experienced teams and emerging talents, setting the stage for the knockout rounds.

Group B

Group B featured West Ham United, FCSB, Silkeborg, and Anderlecht. West Ham dominated the group, asserting their dominance early on and maintaining a high level of performance. FCSB and Anderlecht fought hard for the second spot, with their encounters proving to be pivotal. Silkeborg, despite not advancing, showed moments of brilliance and gave their fans plenty to cheer about. West Ham's success was built on a strong defense and clinical finishing, making them a formidable opponent. The group highlighted the contrasting styles of play across different leagues, adding to the tournament's richness. As the group stage progressed, the intensity increased, with each team vying for every possible point.

Group C

Group C saw Villarreal, Hapoel Beer Sheva, Austria Wien, and Lech Poznan battling it out. Villarreal's experience and quality shone through as they topped the group. Hapoel Beer Sheva put up a strong fight, securing the second spot and demonstrating their ability to compete at the European level. Austria Wien and Lech Poznan added to the group's competitiveness, ensuring that no match was easily won. Villarreal's tactical flexibility and depth of squad were key to their success. The group was marked by tight matches and strategic battles, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The performances of Hapoel Beer Sheva were particularly noteworthy, as they exceeded expectations and showcased their team spirit.

Group D

In Group D, Nice, Partizan, FC Koln, and Slovacko vied for the top spots. Nice clinched the first position with a series of impressive performances. Partizan secured the second spot, displaying resilience and determination. FC Koln and Slovacko, though they didn't advance, played their part in making the group highly competitive. Nice's attacking flair and defensive solidity were instrumental in their success. The group was characterized by its unpredictable nature, with several unexpected results. The matches between Partizan and FC Koln were particularly intense, reflecting the high stakes involved. The group stage provided a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience.

Group E

Group E included AZ Alkmaar, Dnipro-1, Apollon Limassol, and Vaduz. AZ Alkmaar emerged as the group winner, demonstrating their consistent performance and tactical acumen. Dnipro-1 secured the second spot, showcasing their potential on the European stage. Apollon Limassol and Vaduz, though they didn't advance, contributed to the group's overall competitiveness. AZ Alkmaar's youth academy has produced some amazing players. The matches in Group E were marked by their tactical complexity and the strategic battles between the managers. The group provided a platform for lesser-known teams to gain valuable exposure and test their mettle against stronger opponents.

Group F

Group F featured Djurgardens IF, Gent, Molde, and Shamrock Rovers. Djurgardens IF topped the group with an impressive display of teamwork and tactical discipline. Gent secured the second spot, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. Molde and Shamrock Rovers, while not advancing, made their presence felt with spirited performances. Djurgardens IF's success was built on a solid defense and efficient attacking play. The group was characterized by its competitive balance, with each team capable of beating the others on their day. The performances of Shamrock Rovers were particularly noteworthy, as they represented Irish football with pride and determination.

Group G

Group G saw Sivasspor, Slavia Prague, CFR Cluj, and Ballkani battling it out. Sivasspor emerged as the group winner, showcasing their resilience and determination. Slavia Prague secured the second spot, demonstrating their experience and quality. CFR Cluj and Ballkani, though they didn't advance, contributed to the group's overall competitiveness. Sivasspor's success was built on a strong team spirit and a never-say-die attitude. The group was marked by its physicality and intensity, with each match proving to be a hard-fought battle. The performances of Ballkani were particularly noteworthy, as they represented Kosovar football with pride and passion.

Group H

In Group H, Basel, Slovan Bratislava, Zalgiris, and Pyunik vied for the top spots. Basel clinched the first position with a series of solid performances. Slovan Bratislava secured the second spot, demonstrating their ability to compete at the European level. Zalgiris and Pyunik, though they didn't advance, played their part in making the group highly competitive. Basel's experience and quality were instrumental in their success. The group was characterized by its unpredictable nature, with several unexpected results. The matches between Slovan Bratislava and Zalgiris were particularly intense, reflecting the high stakes involved. The group stage provided a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience.

Knockout Stage Highlights

The knockout stage of the Conference League 2022-23 was where legends were made. Each round brought its own drama, upsets, and moments of brilliance. From the play-off round to the final, the stakes were incredibly high, and the teams left everything on the field. The knockout stage saw teams adjusting their tactics, managing their squads, and digging deep to overcome their opponents. It was a true test of character and resilience.

Play-off Round

The play-off round featured the runners-up from the Conference League group stage against teams that had dropped down from the Europa League. These matches were incredibly intense, as teams fought for a place in the Round of 16. Some notable clashes included Lazio vs. CFR Cluj and Braga vs. Fiorentina. The play-off round provided a second chance for some teams and a fresh challenge for others. The winners of these ties advanced to face the group winners from the Conference League.

Round of 16

The Round of 16 saw the Conference League group winners enter the fray, facing off against the winners of the play-off round. This stage was marked by high-quality matches and tactical battles. Teams like West Ham, AZ Alkmaar, and Nice asserted their dominance, while others faced tough challenges. Memorable encounters included West Ham vs. AEK Larnaca and AZ Alkmaar vs. Lazio. The Round of 16 was a significant step towards the final, with each team vying for a place in the quarter-finals.

Quarter-Finals

The quarter-finals were a showcase of the best teams in the competition. The matches were closely contested, with each team giving their all to reach the semi-finals. Notable clashes included West Ham vs. Gent and AZ Alkmaar vs. Anderlecht. These games were filled with drama, tactical adjustments, and moments of individual brilliance. The quarter-finals highlighted the competitive nature of the Conference League and the high level of football on display.

Semi-Finals

The semi-finals were the penultimate stage of the competition, with teams just one step away from the final. The stakes were incredibly high, and the tension was palpable. Memorable encounters included West Ham vs. AZ Alkmaar and Fiorentina vs. Basel. These matches were filled with drama, tactical intrigue, and moments of sheer determination. The semi-finals tested the teams' mental and physical resilience, as they fought for a place in the final.

The Final: West Ham vs. Fiorentina

The final of the Conference League 2022-23 was a thrilling encounter between West Ham United and Fiorentina. The match was played at the Fortuna Arena in Prague on June 7, 2023. Both teams had fought hard to reach this stage, and they were determined to lift the trophy. The game was a tactical battle, with both managers making strategic adjustments throughout the match. West Ham emerged victorious, winning 2-1 and securing their first major European trophy in decades.

Key Moments

The final was filled with key moments that defined the outcome of the match. Said Benrahma scored a penalty to give West Ham the lead, while Giacomo Bonaventura equalized for Fiorentina. Jarrod Bowen scored the winning goal in the 90th minute, sending West Ham fans into ecstasy. The match was a testament to the quality and competitiveness of the Conference League.

Player Performances

Several players stood out in the final, delivering exceptional performances under pressure. Jarrod Bowen's winning goal was a moment of brilliance, while Declan Rice led the West Ham team with his leadership and defensive prowess. For Fiorentina, Giacomo Bonaventura's goal was a highlight, and Sofyan Amrabat controlled the midfield with his energy and tackling ability. The final was a showcase of the talent and dedication of the players involved.

Final Standings

To summarise, here's how the competition wrapped up:

Winner: West Ham United
Runner-up: Fiorentina
Semi-finalists: AZ Alkmaar, Basel

The Conference League 2022-23 season was a memorable one, filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. From the group stage to the final, the competition showcased the best of European football and provided a platform for teams and players to shine.

Conclusion

The Conference League 2022-23 season was a resounding success, showcasing the depth and quality of European football. From the group stage to the final, the competition provided thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. West Ham's victory was a fitting end to a season filled with excitement and drama. The Conference League has established itself as a valuable addition to the European football landscape, and fans are already looking forward to the next season. What a ride, right guys?