In the semi-finals of the Europa League - victories of the hosts (VIDEO OF ALL MATCHES) © EuroFootball.com

On Thursday late in the evening, in the first UEFA Europa League semi-final matches played, the hosts took victories and stepped closer to the final.

In a battle of Spanish teams, Madrid's "Atletico" footballers fought in front of their own fans and beat "Valencia" with a score of 4-2.

Meanwhile, representing Portugal, Lisbon's "Sporting" club bounced back at home after conceding a goal and defeated Bilbao's "Athletic" team 2-1.

The goals scored by the visitors, both the Basques and the 'Lions', left good chances for revenge in the return matches, which will take place next Thursday.

Results:

Madrid "Atletico" 4 - 2 "Valencia" 18' [1 - 0] R. Falcao 45' [1 - 1] Jonas 49' [2 - 1] Miranda 54' [3 - 1] Adrian 78' [4 - 1] R. Falcao 90' [4 - 2] R. Costa

Lisbon "Sporting" 2 - 1 Bilbao "Athletic" 54' [0 - 1] J. Aurtenetxe 76' [1 - 1] E. Insua 80' [2 - 1] D. Capel