We’ll have to get used to it: the prestigious
Champions League will also host the Thursday evenings. Usually reserved for the Europa League, this slot now belongs to the new formula of the cup with the big ears. Two French representatives made their entrance on stage in the evening:
AS Monaco faced FC Barcelona in a gala match, while Stade Brestois hosted Sturm Graz
in Guingamp for his big debut in the European Cup.
But other big names from the continent were also on deck during this lively evening. Unbeaten all last season, Bayer Leverkusen opened the show at the end of the afternoon, on the pitch of Feyenoord Rotterdam. And Xabi Alonso’s team made a strong impression by signing a large victory, with in particular a double from the virtuoso Florian Wirtz (4-0). At the same time, Benfica Lisbon won in the lair of Red Star Belgrade (2-1).
Arsenal lacking realism
Later in the day, the most enticing match pitted Atatanta Bergamo, winner of the last Europa League, against Arsenal, one of the top seeds in the table. And in this rather intense match, the London club did not manage to take the upper hand. Lacking realism on the offensive side, the English vice-champions did not manage to find the opening, against a Lombard team that had opportunities and missed a penalty.
Finally, Atlético de Madrid – who will be an opponent of Paris Saint-Germain, like Arsenal – did a good job by winning against RB Leipzig at home (2-1). The Colchoneros were able to count on a still very inspired Antoine Griezmann to take the upper hand in this match. The technical leader of the Blues equalized after half an hour to respond to Sesko’s opening goal, before Gimenez delivered his team on the wire. Mission accomplished.
