Did Juventus and Real Madrid Shine in the Champions League Opener?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying start to the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund battled to an incredible draw, while Real Madrid triumphed over Marseille with Kylian Mbappe's brilliance. This article delves into the thrilling matches that set the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Juventus fought back with a last-minute equalizer against Dortmund.
- Kylian Mbappe proved pivotal in Real Madrid's victory.
- Arsenal kicked off their campaign with a solid win over Athletic Club.
- Tottenham returned to the Champions League with a narrow win.
New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) Juventus made a late surge to secure a thrilling draw in a match filled with eight goals against Borussia Dortmund. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe scored two penalties, leading Real Madrid to victory over Marseille as the group stage of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League commenced.
The match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund ended in a draw, equaling the record for the highest-scoring Champions League draw. The hosts had chances from Khephren Thuram and Lois Openda in the first half, but it was Karim Adeyemi's goal in the 52nd minute that ignited the match.
A flurry of goals ensued as Kenan Yıldız, Felix Nmecha, and Dušan Vlahović found the back of the net in a span of four minutes, before Yan Couto responded with a powerful strike for Dortmund, making it 3-2. Despite Ramy Bensebaini's penalty that seemed to ensure Dortmund's victory in the 85th minute, Juventus managed to clinch a draw with a late equalizer from Dušan Vlahović and a header by Lloyd Kelly.
On the other hand, Real Madrid, under the management of Xabi Alonso in his inaugural Champions League match, overcame an early deficit against Marseille. After Timothy Weah opened the scoring for the hosts, Mbappe equalized with a penalty after a foul by Geoffrey Kondogbia on Rodrygo.
Despite losing Dani Carvajal to a red card in the 72nd minute, Mbappé netted again from the penalty spot nine minutes before full-time, following a handball by Facundo Medina.
In another match, substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard propelled Arsenal to a winning start against Athletic Club in a closely contested match in Bilbao, marking the club's first Champions League appearance since the 2014/15 season.
Both teams had few chances until Martinelli scored just seconds after coming on, converting a flick from Trossard. Martinelli's explosive run set up Trossard for the second goal, confirming a 2-0 win for Arsenal and a perfect start to their Champions League campaign.
Returning to the Champions League, Tottenham, the UEFA Europa League holders, secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Villarreal. The hosts found the net within five minutes, as Luiz Júnior, the Villarreal goalkeeper, inadvertently turned Lucas Bergvall's cross into his own net.
Although Tajon Buchanan and Nicolas Pépé had opportunities to equalize for the visitors, Tottenham remained composed and held on to mark Thomas Frank's Champions League managerial debut with a win.
Point of View
It's clear that the opening matches of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League have set a high bar for excitement. The resilience shown by Juventus and the star power of Mbappe with Real Madrid highlight the unpredictability and thrill of top-tier European football. Such matches are a testament to the growing competition in the Champions League.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Juventus vs Borussia Dortmund match?
The match ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw, equaling the record for the highest-scoring Champions League draw.
How did Real Madrid perform in their opener?
Real Madrid won 2-1 against Marseille, with Kylian Mbappe scoring both goals from penalties.
Which other teams had notable performances?
Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club, while Tottenham won 1-0 against Villarreal.
What significance does this Champions League season hold?
This season marks the beginning of a highly competitive tournament, showcasing some of Europe's best teams and players.
Who managed Real Madrid during this match?
Xabi Alonso was at the helm for Real Madrid in his first Champions League match.
