Barcelona’s defeat in the principality against Monaco and Bayer Leverkusen’s “parade” in Rotterdam marked the third and final day of the first round of the new Champions League.
The Catalans paid dearly for the quickest sending off in their history in the European Cup (10′ Eric Garcia), which the Monegasques took advantage of to win 2-1 on their return to the competition after a five-year absence.
In the evening’s derby, Atlético beat the very strong Leipzig in Madrid with the same result, and in fact with a comeback, as the Bulls only took the lead after 4 minutes. The solution for Tsolo Simeone’s Rojiblancos was finally provided by Jiménez with a header in the 90th minute.
Arsenal failed to overcome Atalanta in Italy, conceding a 0-0 draw to Gasperini’s side, who disarmed the Gunners with their tactics.
Indeed, the Londoners should feel lucky to have secured a point, which they owe in large part to goalkeeper David Raya, who pulled off an incredible double save in the 53rd minute.
First, the Spanish international saved Retegui’s penalty and then, magically, he did the same to the same player’s point-blank header!
A great victory for Brest, who in their first participation in a European competition, and indeed their first, beat Sturm 2-1.
Results and top scorers:
- Red Star – Benfica 1-2 (86′ Milson – 9′ Arkturkoglou, 29′ Koktsu)
- Feyenoord – Leverkusen 0-4 (5′, 36′ Wirtz, 30′ Grimaldo, 45′ auto. Wellenruter)
- Atalanta-Arsenal 0-0
- Atlético de Madrid-Leipzig 2-1 (28′ Griezmann, 90′ Jimenes – 4′ Cesko)
- Monaco – Barcelona 2-1 (16′ Acljuche, 72′ Ilenikena – 28′ Yamal)
- Brest – Sturm Graz 2-1 (23′ Magneti, 56′ Sima – 45’+1 auto. Fernandes)