Fenerbahce defeat Zenit in first leg of EL clash

The Yellow Canaries earned a vital victory in the first leg of their duel against Zenit on Tuesday.

Fenerbahce held firm to claim a 1-0 victory against Zenit Saint Petersburg in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 32 clash.

The Turkish club hosted the Russian giants at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul where a passionate home crowd cheered on as they watched Fenerbahce their attack opponents relentlessly.

Islam Slimani gave the hosts the lead in the 21st minute after the ball fell to his feet from a corner kick.

Zenit had an opportunity to equalize in the 45th minute when the referee awarded them a penalty kick after Fenerbahce defender Skrtel brought down one of their players.

However, Fener goalkeeper Harun Tekin denied Zenit’s Mak with a superb save which rebounded off of the crossbar and into his arms.

With Tuesday night’s victory, their unbeaten record against Russian teams at home — two wins and two draws — continues.

The Super Lig club go into the second leg of the tie with a slight advantage.

Zenit will host Fenerbahce in the return leg of the tie in St. Petersburg, Russia on February 21.