The UEFA Champions League 2024/25 season continued with exciting matches on September 18, 2024. Here’s a detailed overview of the key games from that day.
The match between Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk ended in a goalless draw. Despite the lack of goals, the game had its moments of drama. Shakhtar had an early opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 4th minute. However, Sudakov G. missed the chance to put his team ahead, and the match ended 0-0 with both teams sharing the points.
Sparta Prague marked their return to the Champions League with a resounding 3-0 victory over Red Bull Salzburg. Sparta wasted no time in taking control of the match, with Kairinen K. scoring in just the 2nd minute. Before halftime, Olatunji V. doubled Sparta’s lead, scoring from Panak F.’s assist. In the second half, Laci Q. secured the win with a goal in the 58th minute, assisted by Olatunji V., leaving Salzburg with no chance to recover.
Celtic delivered an impressive performance at home, defeating Slovan Bratislava 5-1. Scales L. opened the scoring for Celtic in the 17th minute on an assist from Engels A. The second half saw Celtic extend their lead with Furuhashi K. scoring in the 47th minute and Engels A. converting a penalty in the 56th minute. Slovan attempted a comeback with Wimmer scoring in the 60th minute on Tolić M.’s assist. However, goals from Maeda and Idah A., assisted by Forrest J., ensured Celtic’s dominant victory.
Borussia Dortmund started their Champions League campaign with a solid 3-0 win against Club Brugge. The first half saw few chances as both teams struggled to break each other’s defenses. Gittens broke the deadlock in the 76th minute with an assist from Can E., and added another goal ten minutes later on Nmecha F.’s assist. Guirassy sealed the victory with a penalty in stoppage time.
The highly anticipated clash between Manchester City and Inter Milan ended in a goalless draw. City dominated possession and created more shooting opportunities but failed to convert them into goals. Inter’s defense held firm, ensuring both teams took home one point each.
Paris Saint-Germain secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Girona thanks to a last-minute goal. PSG found it difficult to break down Girona’s resilient defense throughout most of the match. In the closing moments of the game, Gazzaniga P. scored from Mendes N.’s assist, giving PSG all three points and sparing them from an unexpected draw.The second day of UEFA Champions League action provided thrilling moments and showcased tactical battles across Europe. With teams like Sparta Prague and Borussia Dortmund making strong starts, fans can expect more excitement as the tournament progresses.