The first matchday of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League concluded on Thursday night, September 19, delivering several surprising results across Europe.
One of the most shocking outcomes came from the clash between Spanish giants FC Barcelona and French side AS Monaco. Despite pre-match confidence from coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona fell 2-1 at the Stade Louis II after playing with ten men from the 10th minute, following a red card issued to Eric García.
Key Results from Thursday’s Matches
- Crvena zvezda vs. Benfica: 1-2
- Feyenoord vs. Bayer Leverkusen: 0-4
- Brest vs. SK Sturm Graz: 2-1
- Atalanta vs. Arsenal: 0-0
- Atlético Madrid vs. RB Leipzig: 2-1
- Monaco vs. Barcelona: 2-1
In another standout performance, Bayer Leverkusen made a strong statement by defeating Feyenoord 4-0 at De Kuip. Nigerian forward Victor Boniface made his Champions League debut for Leverkusen but did not find the net.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, faced Atalanta at Gewiss Stadium, but the match ended in a goalless draw. Nigerian striker Ademola Lookman struggled to penetrate Arsenal’s solid defense throughout the match.
As the tournament progresses, these results set the stage for an exciting Champions League season.