As the Champions League group stages inch closer to their dramatic conclusion, matchweek seven served up a smorgasbord of unforgettable moments, twists, and turns, encapsulating the essence of why this tournament holds such a revered place in the hearts of football aficionados worldwide. The week was not just about the game; it was a spectacle of style, strategy, and sheer sporting drama. From the fashion-forward kits that graced the fields, symbolizing the blend of sport with culture, to the tactical masterclasses that unfolded, each match had its own story to tell.
In Paris, the glamour of the city was matched by the intensity on the pitch, while in Lisbon, the rain-soaked pitch bore witness to one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent memory. Anfield continued to be a fortress of dreams, where legends are made and records are broken. Meanwhile, in Madrid, a tale of resilience and cunning showcased why certain teams are etched in the annals of European football. Let’s dive deep into these narratives, exploring how each match not only moved teams closer to or further from their dreams of glory but also painted a broader picture of the beauty and unpredictability of football in the Champions League.
Our Champions League Team Of The Week is in! Agree with the picks? pic.twitter.com/KgfZGUWcy9
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 23, 2025
Champions League Matchweek Seven Review
Manchester City crumbled again…
The ‘Battle of the Big Spenders’ at the Parc des Princes was as much about the spectacle off the pitch as the drama on it. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) unveiled a stunning new fourth kit, a nod to the Air Jordan legacy with wings adorning the shoulders, while Manchester City countered with the ‘Definitely City’ kit, co-designed by none other than Oasis’s Noel Gallagher.
The match began with a flurry of celebrity sightings, from NBA’s Victor Wembanyama to Hollywood’s Leonardo DiCaprio, all there to witness what turned out to be a match of two halves. PSG’s Achraf Hakimi thought he had scored, only for VAR to intervene, but the game’s real fireworks came post-interval. Jack Grealish, City’s hefty investment, finally found the net, followed by Erling Haaland extending the lead, seemingly securing the points for Pep Guardiola’s men.
However, the narrative flipped dramatically. Ousmane Dembele, a second-half substitute, ignited PSG’s comeback, with Bradley Barcola and Joao Neves adding to the tally before Goncalo Ramos finished off the scoring in added time. The result? A 4-2 victory for PSG, sending City into the elimination zone and keeping the French side’s Champions League dreams very much alive.
✅ Official: Man City announce the blockbuster signing of Omar Marmoush! ?? pic.twitter.com/uk9WzuN0et
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 23, 2025
Real Madrid’s clique are starting to click
The Champions League has a way of bringing out the best in Real Madrid, and matchweek seven was no exception. With a history that boasts 15 European Cups, the aura around Los Blancos in this competition is almost mythical. Facing Red Bull Salzburg, Real Madrid didn’t just play; they orchestrated a symphony of football. Rodrygo was the night’s maestro, opening the scoreline after a fortuitous miscontrol by Jude Bellingham turned into a golden opportunity. The Brazilian’s second goal was a testament to the team’s growing chemistry, assisted by Bellingham’s deft heel flick.
Kylian Mbappe, very much finding his form after a rough patch, added to the tally, while Vinicius Junior’s brace sealed the deal. Even with their inconsistent domestic performances, Real Madrid’s ability to regain their footing in Europe remains unparalleled. Their 5-1 victory not only keeps them in the conversation for automatic qualification but also serves as a stark reminder: when Real Madrid hit their stride, they’re nearly unbeatable.
?⚽️ Jude Bellingham just hit 101 G/A in top 5 leagues! ? 56 goals ?, 45 assists ?… and he’s only 21?! ?
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 22, 2025
The kid’s not just a wonderkid, he’s a FULL-ON BALLER. ? pic.twitter.com/HgZsMwsx6l
Barcelona make a historic comeback against Benfica
The match between Barcelona and Benfica in Lisbon was a narrative that could fill a book. Benfica started with an intensity that belied their usual European pedigree, with Vangelis Pavlidis scoring a hat-trick in the first half, igniting the Estadio da Luz. The Greek striker, previously known for his heroics against England, seemed set to be the night’s hero. However, football’s script often includes twists, and Barcelona’s was one for the ages. Led by Robert Lewandowski’s two penalties, the comeback was on. The equalizer came from an unlikely source, Eric Garcia, whose header from Pedri’s cross sent the Barcelona fans into delirium.
But the true climax came in stoppage time when Raphinha, with a coolness under pressure that would make even the most seasoned professional envious, scored the winner. The drama didn’t end with the whistle; Benfica’s manager Bruno Lage took his team through a public dissection of their collapse, reminiscent of Phil Brown’s famous half-time team talk on the pitch. This match will be etched in Champions League lore for its blend of high drama, scoring, and sheer tenacity.
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— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 22, 2025
Are Liverpool unstoppable?
Anfield has been a fortress this Champions League season, and matchweek seven was no different. Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, have been walking through Europe with an air of inevitability. Against Lille, despite the French side’s spirited performance, Liverpool’s dominance was clear. Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian king in red, continued his remarkable European journey by scoring his 50th goal for the club in European competitions. The match wasn’t without its challenges; Jonathan David’s equalizer for Lille briefly threatened Liverpool’s perfect record.
However, young Harvey Elliott, with his second goal of the season, restored Liverpool’s lead, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. This victory not only extends Liverpool’s winning streak but also ensures they’ll be among the top seeds for the next round, potentially facing a less formidable opponent in the play-offs. With their eyes set on securing the group’s top spot, Liverpool’s march towards another European title looks unstoppable.
Are Atletico Madrid a major underdog for the Champions League?
Atletico Madrid, often cast in the shadow of their Madrid counterparts or Barcelona, proved once again why they are perennial contenders in the Champions League. Against a Bayer Leverkusen side that was not just in form but also a man up, Atletico Madrid delivered a performance that was classic Simeone. The game was a testament to resilience; down a player after Pablo Barrios’s red card and trailing after Piero Hincapie’s header for Leverkusen, it seemed the narrative was set.
However, Atletico’s spirit is built on such moments. Julian Alvarez, in a display of individual brilliance, scored twice — first to level the game and then to win it in the dying minutes with a goal that will be replayed for years. The match was also marked by the antics of Simeone’s son, Giuliano, whose involvement led to Hincapie’s red card, showcasing the psychological warfare Atletico is known for. With Angel Correa’s assist for the winner adding to his reputation as a super sub, Atletico not only kept their Champions League dreams alive but also sent a message: they are never to be underestimated, especially under the lights of Europe.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyHelfgott1 on Twitter (X)
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