Champions League action unfolded as Liverpool triumphed over AC Milan, marking an exciting start to the new season. The highly anticipated match showcased Liverpool’s resilience against the seven-time champions in a thrilling encounter held in Italy.
Here are three key highlights from the opening round.
Real Madrid begins title defense with a win
Real Madrid kicked off its title defense by securing a victory against Bundesliga’s Stuttgart. Just three months after clinching their 15th European crown against Borussia Dortmund, the Spanish giants showcased their strength with an early second-half goal from Kylian Mbappé, who made a significant impact in his first Champions League match for the club.
Despite a brief challenge from Stuttgart, Antonio Rüdiger emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal to ensure Real Madrid left the Estadio Bernabeu with three points. In stoppage time, young talent Endrick sealed the game with a third goal, ending the match at 3-1.
Liverpool survives early Christian Pulisic strike, tops AC Milan
Champions League excitement surged as U.S. captain Christian Pulisic scored within three minutes, giving AC Milan an early lead against Liverpool. However, the celebrations at San Siro were short-lived as Liverpool quickly regrouped.
The Reds equalized through central defender Ibrahima Konaté and took the lead with a goal from Virgil van Dijk before halftime. As AC Milan pushed forward in the second half, Liverpool countered effectively, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring a crucial third goal to secure a 3-1 victory.
Weston McKennie scores, is among five history-making Americans
In an exciting matchup between Juventus and PSV Eindhoven, Weston McKennie made headlines by scoring his team’s second goal in a 3-1 victory. This match was significant for new U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino, as five American players participated, marking a historic moment in Champions League history.
Alongside McKennie, Malik Tillman and Richie Ledezma, who has transitioned to right back, played for PSV, with Ricardo Pepi entering as a substitute. Tim Weah also made an appearance for Juventus, making this the first Champions League match featuring five U.S. players.
Juventus will next face RB Leipzig in Germany on October 2, while PSV will host Sporting Lisbon on October 1, continuing the thrilling journey of the Champions League.
