The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 kicked off with several thrilling first-leg encounters, setting the stage for intense second-leg clashes. Here’s a recap of the standout performances:
Arsenal’s Commanding Victory Over PSV Eindhoven
Arsenal delivered a masterclass performance against PSV Eindhoven, securing a resounding 7-1 away victory. The Gunners showcased their attacking prowess, with goals from Jurriën Timber (18′), Ethan Nwaneri (21′), Mikel Merino (31′), Martin Ødegaard (47′, 73′), Leandro Trossard (48′), and Riccardo Calafiori (85′). PSV’s sole response came from Noa Lang’s penalty in the 43rd minute.
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Other Notable First-Leg Results
Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid: In a tightly contested Madrid derby, Real Madrid edged out a 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid. Rodrygo opened the scoring for Los Blancos in the 4th minute, with Brahim Diaz adding a second in the 55th. Atlético’s Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 32nd minute, keeping the tie competitive ahead of the return leg.
Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen: Bayern Munich asserted their dominance with a 3-0 home win against Bayer Leverkusen. Harry Kane was instrumental, netting goals in the 9th and 75th minutes (the latter from the penalty spot), while Jamal Musiala added to the tally in the 54th minute.
Barcelona vs. Benfica: Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica, with Raphinha scoring the decisive goal in the 61st minute. The Catalan club’s preparations were overshadowed by the tragic passing of their first-team doctor, Carles Miñarro, leading to an agreement with UEFA that no players would speak in the pre-match press conference.
Borussia Dortmund vs. Lille: The match between Borussia Dortmund and Lille ended in a 1-1 draw. Karim Adeyemi gave Dortmund the lead in the 22nd minute, but Lille’s Arnar Haraldsson equalized in the 68th, leaving the tie finely balanced.
Club Brugge vs. Aston Villa: Aston Villa secured a 3-1 away victory over Club Brugge. Leon Bailey opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, followed by an own goal from Brugge’s Brandon Mechele in the 83rd and a penalty converted by Marco Asensio in the 86th. Brugge’s Antonio Nusa netted their only goal in the 12th minute.
