The Champions League is back and we’ve had chance to see all of this year’s clubs perform on the big stage this week.

Just like we’ve seen in the domestic leagues there were a few surprises, and some standout performers. It was like Deja Vu for Marcus Rashford in Paris when he grabbed a late winner for Man Utd against PSG. It was a similar scene to what we had seen two years ago in the Champions League when United came from behind to progress to the next round.

PSG were finalists last season but it looks like there is work to be done to get back to that level and contend for being a European giant. Liverpool also made a winning start, with an own goal from Ajax being the only difference between the two sides.

The two main men in Europe also saw their teams win, Ronaldo was not in attendance due to illness but Juventus had a worthy replacement with Morata who scored two to beat Dynamo Kiev 2-0. Messi scored a penalty to set Barca on its way to a 5-1 win over Ferencváros as the Spanish giants aim to rebuild their reputation after the 8-2 loss to Bayern last season.

Chelsea managed to keep the clean sheet against Sevilla, in a goalless draw with the European champions who love to keep the ball in the team. Because they have the same approach as the Spanish side they had to be very organised at the back. Now it just about finding the right balance in keeping the opposition out but making sure the team is still attacking and scoring goals.

Real Madrid suffered defeat to Donetsk after going 3-0 down to a team that included a few youth team players after a coronavirus outbreak meant many of the first team could not travel. Real have now lost seven of their last eight Champions League games without Ramos, who has been a key player for this team for so many years. Meanwhile Bayern continued their ruthless form with a 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid.

This tournament isn’t about having the best first game but having said that the ones who started of slow should be thinking about getting better or it will be a very short journey. Especially without the 12th man that makes all the difference to the belief.  #mmlove