Champions League Thrillers: Late Drama, Big Wins And Ruthless Champions

The opening week of the Champions League served up everything fans crave: late drama, emphatic statements from title contenders, and lessons for those still finding their feet.

Liverpool 3–2 Atlético Madrid: Van Dijk the Hero in Anfield Epic

Anfield witnessed another European classic as Liverpool edged Atlético Madrid in a rollercoaster contest. The Reds stormed ahead with early strikes from Andy Robertson (4′) and Mohamed Salah (6′), but Marcos Llorente clawed Atlético back with goals either side of the break, the second a thunderous volley on 81 minutes. Just when a draw looked inevitable, Virgil van Dijk powered home a stoppage-time header to hand Liverpool a dramatic win and send the Kop into raptures.

Bayern Munich 3–1 Chelsea: Kane Punishes Returning Blues

Chelsea’s Champions League comeback turned into a baptism of fire at the Allianz Arena. A Trevoh Chalobah own goal and a Harry Kane penalty put Bayern in control early, though Cole Palmer’s sharp finish briefly revived Chelsea’s hopes. Any chance of a fightback was snuffed out when Kane struck again in the second half, sealing a ruthless 3–1 victory for the Bavarians and leaving Chelsea with plenty to ponder.

Paris Saint-Germain 4–0 Atalanta: Holders Send Out a Message

The defending champions wasted no time reminding Europe of their firepower. Marquinhos’ header inside three minutes set the tone before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia doubled the advantage. Nuno Mendes rifled in a third after the break, and Gonçalo Ramos came off the bench to complete a commanding 4–0 triumph. Atalanta were left chasing shadows as PSG underlined their intent to retain the crown.

Inter Milan 2–0 Ajax: Thuram Double Silences Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, Inter Milan delivered a clinical away performance. Marcus Thuram proved the difference, heading in two almost identical goals from Hakan Çalhanoğlu corners—first on the stroke of half-time, then again shortly after the restart. Ajax pushed but lacked cutting edge, while Inter’s defensive discipline ensured a professional 2–0 win on the road.