The anthem played, the floodlights came on, and the UEFA Champions League delivered yet another night of thrilling football. From a new goal-scoring record for Erling Haaland to a crucial victory for Barcelona at a hostile St. James’ Park, Wednesday, September 18, had it all.
Newcastle United vs FC Barcelona
In a highly anticipated clash, Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory over Newcastle at St. James’ Park. The match was an end-to-end affair, but it was Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, who proved to be the difference-maker. He scored a brace in the second half, with his second goal a brilliant long-range strike that left the Newcastle defense with no answer. Anthony Gordon managed to pull one back for the home side in the 89th minute, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Barcelona from taking all three points.
Manchester City vs Napoli
At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City started their campaign with a professional 2-0 win over Napoli. The game changed in the 21st minute when Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was shown a red card. City took advantage of their numerical superiority, with Phil Foden assisting a goal for Erling Haaland, who now holds the record for the fastest player to reach 50 Champions League goals. Jérémy Doku sealed the win for City with a superb solo run and finish in the 65th minute.
Eintracht Frankfurt vs Galatasaray
Eintracht Frankfurt delivered a powerful comeback to defeat Galatasaray with a convincing 5-1 scoreline. Despite conceding an early goal, Frankfurt’s attack ignited, scoring three goals in a span of ten minutes late in the first half to take a commanding lead. Jonathan Burkardt scored a brace, and Ansgar Knauff and Can Uzun also found the back of the net. The win puts Frankfurt in a strong position early in the competition.
Club Brugge vs AS Monaco
Club Brugge started their Champions League journey in style with a comprehensive 4-1 home victory over AS Monaco. The Belgian side took control of the game with a three-goal burst in a ten-minute spell before halftime. Goals from Nicolò Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika, and captain Hans Vanaken gave Brugge a comfortable lead. Debutant Mamadou Diakhon added a fourth for Brugge in the second half, while Monaco’s Ansu Fati scored a late consolation goal.
Sporting CP vs FC Kairat
Sporting CP began their campaign with a decisive 4-1 home victory over Kazakhstan’s FC Kairat. The Portuguese side was led by a brace from Francisco Trincão, who scored in the 44th and 64th minutes. Alisson Santos and Geovany Quenda also found the back of the net in quick succession in the second half, sealing a comfortable win. Edmilson scored a late consolation goal for the visitors.
FC Copenhagen vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen
In one of the most thrilling matches of the night, FC Copenhagen and Bayer Leverkusen played out a dramatic 2-2 draw. Copenhagen took an early lead through Jordan Larsson, but Leverkusen’s Álex Grimaldo equalized with a brilliant free-kick in the 82nd minute. The home side thought they had won it when Robert Silva scored a header in the 86th minute, but a heartbreaking own goal by Pantelis Hatzidiakos in stoppage time meant the points were shared.
A Look Ahead
The opening round of the Champions League has served up a delicious mix of statement wins and dramatic finishes, reminding everyone why it’s the pinnacle of European club football. With the first three points secured for many of the favorites, the stage is now set for a thrilling second round of matches. Which teams do you think showed the most promise, and who has the most work to do? The race to the final is officially on!