UEFA Champions League action returns tonight: Five must-watch matches

As the UEFA Champions League returns with a bang, football fans around the world are gearing up for a night of thrilling matches that promise to keep them on the edge of their seats. From reigning champions Manchester City to the resurgent Newcastle United, the stage is set for epic battles on the hallowed turf of Europe’s finest stadiums. Here are five matches that you simply can’t afford to miss:

1. Manchester City vs. Red Star Belgrade – Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England (19:00 GMT)

Manchester City, the defending champions, kick off their campaign against Serbian side Red Star Belgrade. Despite missing key players like John Stones, Jack Grealish, Mateo Kovacic, and Kevin de Bruyne due to injuries, the Citizens will rely on the formidable Erling Haaland, last season’s top scorer in the Champions League.

2. Feyenoord vs. Celtic – Stadion Feyenoord, Rotterdam, Netherlands (19:00 GMT)

Injuries have taken their toll on both Feyenoord and Celtic, the domestic champions of their respective leagues. With key defenders and wingers sidelined, it’s a battle of resilience and determination. Feyenoord’s recent goal-scoring spree adds an element of unpredictability to this clash.

3. AC Milan vs. Newcastle – San Siro, Milan, Italy (16:45 GMT)

Newcastle United returns to Europe’s biggest club tournament after a two-decade absence. Their challenge? Facing last season’s semifinalists, AC Milan, at the iconic San Siro. Milan, despite their rich history, have struggled against English sides recently. With Sandro Tonali in their ranks, the Magpies hope to cause an upset.

       4. Paris Saint-Germain vs. Borussia Dortmund – Parc des Princes, Paris, France (19:00 GMT)

A rematch from the 2019-20 campaign, PSG takes on Borussia Dortmund. PSG, missing Neymar and Lionel Messi, will look to Kylian Mbappe for inspiration in a group that also features AC Milan and Newcastle. Dortmund’s recent goal fest promises a high-scoring affair.

5. Barcelona vs. Antwerp – Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, Barcelona, Spain (19:00 GMT)

Barcelona, the reigning La Liga champions, aim to break their Champions League group stage jinx. Under the guidance of Xavi Hernandez, they host Belgian champions Antwerp at the Olympic Stadium due to Camp Nou renovations. With a fearless approach, Antwerp, led by former Barcelona midfielder Mark van Bommel, is set to test themselves against the Catalan giants.

With these exhilarating matchups, the UEFA Champions League once again takes center stage, promising football fans an unforgettable night of drama, skill, and passion. Tune in and witness history unfold as Europe’s elite clubs battle for supremacy in the world’s most prestigious club competition.

Credit: Aljazeera