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The first matchday of the new single-group format in the Champions League concluded yesterday. It featured balanced play, surprising results, and great matches across Europe. Atalanta, the last Italian team to play after Juventus, Inter, Milan, and Bologna, ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw against Arsenal, with Retegui missing a crucial penalty in the second half.
The standout surprise was Monaco's 2-1 victory over Barcelona at the "Louis II" stadium. Eric Garcia's early red card was decisive. Ilenikhena scored the winning goal, while Barcelona's young talent Lamin Yamal equalized.
Bayer Leverkusen secured a convincing 4-0 win against Feyenoord, with Florian Wirtz being named MVP after scoring a brace.
Atletico Madrid displayed authority with a 2-1 comeback victory over Leipzig at the "Wanda Metropolitano," thanks to goals from Griezmann and Jimenez after Sesko's early strike.
Benfica began their Champions League campaign with three points, with a Turkish influence in their 2-0 victory over Red Star, courtesy of goals from Akturkoglu and Kokcu.
Brest achieved their first-ever win in the competition, defeating Sturm Graz 2-1 at the Guingamp stadium, with Magnetti and Sima as the heroes of a day that will remain in the memories of their fans.
The second round of the Champions League will take place on Tuesday, October 1st, and Wednesday, October 2nd.
