Besiktas opened their UEFA Europa League campaign with a 4-1 victory over French side Marseille at home on Thursday.

Besiktas took the lead in the 15th minute when Ilhan Fakili exchanged passes with Olaitan before breaking behind the defense and calmly finding the corner.

Marseille leveled in the 30th minute through Abdallah, who raced into the box on the right before firing a low shot into the far corner following Abdelli's long pass.

The sides went into halftime level after Marseille goalkeeper De Lange denied Orkun Kokcu in a one-on-one situation in stoppage time.

Besiktas regained the lead in the 56th minute when Cerny received a pass from Kokcu and struck the far corner, with his effort hitting the post before finding the net.

The hosts extended their advantage three minutes later as defender Murillo headed home from Kokcu's corner.

Besiktas continued to threaten, with Ilhan Fakili hitting the crossbar with a curling effort in the 68th minute.

The Turkish side completed the scoring in the 81st minute. Olaitan combined with Vlahovic before setting up Poku, who finished from close range.

Besiktas held on to secure a convincing 4-1 victory and three points in their Europa League opener. (AA)