Champions League, gameweek 1: Here are the Key takeaways
The UEFA Champions League 2019-20 season got off to a frantic start on Tuesday. In the first round of matches of groups E-H in gameweek 1, there were some superb results to show the uncertainty of this competition. Holders Liverpool were beaten by Napoli, whereas, Chelsea were stunned at home by Valencia. Barcelona held Borussia Dortmund 0-0. Here are the key takeaways.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 17, 2019
😱 21 goals and DRAMA!
🔵 Napoli beat holders Liverpool
🦇 Valencia stun Chelsea in London
😮 Salzburg score 5 goals in first half
👏 Competition debutant Håland hits hat-trick #UCL
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool failed to seize the strong moments they had in front of goal to lose away from home against Napoli. The visitors saw Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane's goal-bound shots get saved when the score was 0-0. Credit goes to Napoli for holding their fort and feeding on two Liverpool mistakes at the death. It was a strong show from Napoli.
The theme of Frank Lampard's managerial start at Chelsea has been filled with bouts of inconsistency. They were flat and couldn't break down the Spanish side. Also, the goal that resulted from a free-kick was due to poor marking. The Blues could have snatched a draw only for Ross Barkley to miss a late penalty. After the weekend highs, Chelsea's mood dampened drastically.
Borussia Dortmund were the better side at home and dominated the second half largely. However, it turned out to be a good away point for Barcelona. The man of the moment was Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The goal-keeper was alert and denied Marco Reus with a penalty save. He also made a superb double save to deny Reus. For Dortmund, it was an opportunity missed.
Red Bull Salzburg claimed all three points in Group E against Genk after a commanding 6-2 victory. In Group F, Inter Milan couldn't capitalize on the 0-0 draw between Dortmund and Barca. They were held by Slavia Prague. Group G saw Benfica lose at home against RB Leipzig, whereas, Lyon and Zenit played out a 1-1 draw. Ajax beat Lille 3-0 in Group H.
