The Champions League never fails to deliver drama, and matchday 3 was no exception. While some European heavyweights faltered, new heroes emerged to seize the spotlight. Let’s dive into the key storylines from an enthralling week of elite football.
Concern Mounts for Arsenal and Bayern
Two of Europe’s most storied clubs showed signs of vulnerability this week. Arsenal, despite grabbing a narrow win over Shakhtar Donetsk, looked jaded and short of their usual spark. Manager Mikel Arteta bemoaned his squad’s fatigue, a worrying sign ahead of a vital Premier League clash with Liverpool. Injuries to key men like Riccardo Calafiori only compound the Gunners’ woes.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich endured a chastening night in Barcelona, going down 4-1 to a rampant Blaugrana side. Coach Vincent Kompany’s gung-ho tactics left his team exposed, with summer signing Joao Palhinha particularly overrun in midfield. It’s back to the drawing board for the Bavarian giants.
Milan’s American Idol
Christian Pulisic is fast becoming AC Milan’s talisman. The American winger netted a vital goal in the Rossoneri’s win over Club Brugge, continuing his hot streak since arriving in Italy. Pulisic’s linkup play with Rafael Leao caught the eye, and if he maintains this form, a deep Champions League run could be on the cards for Stefano Pioli’s men.
“I didn’t try to do that but it was a good cross”
Christian Pulisic on his fortuitous goal
Raphinha Runs Riot
From Barcelona nearly discarding him in the summer to wearing the captain’s armband in a statement win over Bayern – it’s been some turnaround for Raphinha. The Brazilian forward was unplayable against the Germans, plundering a hat-trick and dovetailing beautifully with prodigy Lamine Yamal. With Robert Lewandowski also on song, Barca suddenly look like contenders again.
Vinicius Eyeing Ballon d’Or?
On current form, it’s hard to look past Vinicius Junior for this year’s Ballon d’Or. The Real Madrid ace lit up the Bernabeu once more, bagging a stunning hat-trick to down Borussia Dortmund. His second goal in particular, leaving Emre Can for dead before lashing home, was a thing of beauty. With the 2023 gong set to be handed out next week, Vini has timed his purple patch to perfection.
Other Talking Points
- VFB Stuttgart caused a huge shock, downing Juventus in Turin thanks to El Bilal Toure’s late winner
- Feyenoord also upset the odds, beating Benfica 3-1 in Lisbon. New signing Hwang In-beom ran the show.
- Lille made it back-to-back wins over Madrid clubs, adding Atletico’s scalp to that of Real.
As the Champions League group stage reaches its midpoint, the standings are taking shape. Some big names have work to do to reach the knockouts, while others are emerging as dark horses. One thing’s for sure – the 2024/25 edition of Europe’s premier club competition is shaping up to be an absolute cracker.
