The UEFA Champions League returned with fireworks on Wednesday night, delivering goals, drama, and a reminder of why this tournament captures the imagination of fans across the globe. From Marcus Thuram’s heroics in Amsterdam to Paris Saint-Germain’s ruthless defence of their crown, Bayern Munich’s big-game experience, and Liverpool’s unforgettable Anfield finish, the opening fixtures had it all.
Marcus Thuram Leads Inter Milan To Victory
Source: Lega de Campeones on X
In Amsterdam, Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram produced a performance that fans won’t forget anytime soon. Rising to meet two Hakan Calhanoglu corners, Thuram scored a brace of headers that sealed a 2-0 victory over Ajax.
The Nerazzurri controlled the pace from the outset, but Ajax had their moments, most notably when Mika Godts was denied by a sharp save from Yan Sommer. Despite the home support urging them on, Ajax couldn’t recover once Inter struck before and after the interval.
Manager Cristian Chivu praised his side’s maturity, highlighting their ability to press high and deny Ajax possession. Meanwhile, Ajax boss John Heitinga lamented the soft goals conceded from set-pieces but applauded his players for their fight.
For South African fans, it’s another sign of Inter’s strength, with Thuram’s aerial dominance drawing comparisons to legendary poachers who’ve thrived in Europe.
PSG Launch Title Defence In Ruthless Style
Source: PSG Inside on X
At the Parc des Princes, Paris Saint-Germain reminded Europe why they are defending champions. Luis Enrique’s men thrashed Atalanta 4-0, a result that had French supporters singing long after the final whistle.
Captain Marquinhos opened the scoring with a towering header, followed by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s slick finish. Nuno Mendes added a third, and Goncalo Ramos capped the night with a stoppage-time strike.
Despite missing Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue, PSG looked untouchable. Social media lit up with praise, with fans declaring this “the most complete PSG side in years.” Atalanta’s new coach Ivan Juric admitted the gulf in class was “abysmal” but pointed to positives with his young players stepping into the European spotlight.
Harry Kane Punishes Chelsea As Bayern March On
Source: Harry Kane on X
Bayern Munich showcased their trademark efficiency, beating Chelsea 3-1 at the Allianz Arena. England captain Harry Kane was at the heart of it, winning and converting a penalty before curling home his second late on.
Chelsea had their chances through Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez, but defensive errors cost them dearly. An own goal from Trevoh Chalobah opened the scoring before Cole Palmer briefly restored hope with a stunning equaliser. Kane’s second sealed Bayern’s 22nd straight victory in a Champions League opener.
While Bayern manager Vincent Kompany downplayed controversy surrounding Jonathan Tah’s clash with Joao Pedro, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was furious, insisting Tah should have seen red.
For local fans, Kane’s performance reignited the debate on whether he remains England’s most influential forward on the European stage.
Van Dijk’s Stoppage-Time Header Saves Liverpool
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Anfield hosted yet another unforgettable European night as Liverpool edged Atletico Madrid 3-2 in a thriller. Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah gave the Reds a lightning-fast start, but Marcos Llorente’s brace had Atletico believing they had stolen a point.
Enter Virgil van Dijk. The captain rose highest in stoppage time to nod home the winner, sending Anfield into bedlam. Atletico’s frustration boiled over as Diego Simeone was sent off in the dying minutes.
For Liverpool, it was not just about the win but the return of record signing Alexander Isak, who made his long-awaited debut, and the positive injury update on Curtis Jones ahead of the Merseyside derby.
Slot, Liverpool’s new manager, praised his team’s resilience. Social media reaction was electric, with Reds fans calling Van Dijk’s header “vintage Anfield magic.”
A Night To Remember
The Champions League’s return showed us everything we love about European football: moments of individual brilliance, tactical battles, heartbreak, and ecstasy. For Inter, PSG, Bayern, and Liverpool, it was a perfect start. For Ajax, Atalanta, Chelsea, and Atletico, it was a reminder of how punishing this stage can be.
And for the rest of us, it was simply a night to savour.
Source: Various
Featured Image Source: PSG Inside on X
