The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 commenced with several thrilling first-leg encounters. Here’s a comprehensive round-up of today’s action:
Bayern Munich 3, Bayer Leverkusen 0: Kane Leads the Charge
Bayern Munich delivered a commanding performance against Bayer Leverkusen at the Allianz Arena, securing a 3-0 victory. Harry Kane was instrumental, netting two goals—an early header in the 9th minute and a penalty in the 75th. Jamal Musiala added to the tally, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error in the 54th minute. Leverkusen’s woes were compounded by Nordi Mukiele’s red card, reducing them to ten men. This result places Bayern in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Benfica 0, Barcelona 1: Blaugrana Edge Ahead
Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica at Estádio da Luz. The decisive moment came when Blaugrana Edge found the back of the net, giving the Catalan side a crucial away goal. Both teams will look to adjust strategies for the return leg at Camp Nou.
Paris Saint-Germain 0, Liverpool 1: Elliott’s Late Heroics
In a tightly contested match at Parc des Princes, Liverpool emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain. Substitute Harvey Elliott made an immediate impact, scoring in the 87th minute with his first touch. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was pivotal, making numerous saves to preserve the lead. This away win provides Liverpool with a significant advantage heading into the second leg at Anfield.
Feyenoord 0, Inter Milan 2: Nerazzurri Take Control
Inter Milan secured a 2-0 away victory against Feyenoord at Stadion Feijenoord. Marcus Thuram opened the scoring with an acrobatic finish in the 38th minute, and Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead shortly after halftime. Inter’s solid performance puts them in a favorable position for the return leg in Milan.
Real Madrid 2, Atletico Madrid 1: Los Blancos Triumph in Derby
In a thrilling Madrid derby at Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid edged out Atletico Madrid with a 2-1 victory. Goals from Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz secured the win for Los Blancos, while Julián Álvarez netted for Atletico. This result gives Real Madrid a slender advantage ahead of the second leg at Wanda Metropolitano.
PSV Eindhoven 1, Arsenal 7: Gunners’ Record-Breaking Performance
Arsenal delivered a sensational performance, defeating PSV Eindhoven 7-1 at Philips Stadion. Six different players found the net for the Gunners, including Martin Ødegaard, Jurrien Timber, Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Merino, Leandro Trossard, and Riccardo Calafiori. This dominant display sets multiple records and virtually assures Arsenal’s progression to the quarter-finals.
Borussia Dortmund 1, Lille 1: Honors Even at Signal Iduna Park
Borussia Dortmund and Lille played out a 1-1 draw at Signal Iduna Park. Both teams showcased attacking intent, but neither could secure a decisive advantage. The tie remains finely balanced ahead of the second leg in France
Club Brugge 1, Aston Villa 3: Villans Impress Away
Aston Villa secured a commanding 3-1 away win over Club Brugge. The English side’s clinical performance puts them in a strong position to advance to the quarter-finals.
The second-leg fixtures are scheduled for March 11 and 12, where teams will vie for a spot in the quarter-finals
