Kylian Mbappe to score on debut for Real Madrid; Milan crushed by Slot’s Liverpool? 4 things that can happen as Champions League returns
The UEFA Champions League, the pinnacle of European club football, returns with a further-strengthened defending champions in Real Madrid and a reimagined format that promises added intrigue and drama.
Under the new format, teams will play eight matches in the new league phase (formerly known as group stage). Any given team will face eight fixtures against different teams, playing half of those matches at home and half of them away.With the extended tally of fixtures and the possibility of playing varied oppositions, the 2024-25 season of the continental competition is expected to present intense footballing action right from the first matchday.
European heavyweights Liverpool and AC Milan locking horns; Hansi Flick’s rampaging Barcelona setting sight on regaining European supremacy; two modern-day powerhouses in Manchester City and Real Madrid eyeing a flawless start – the opening round of fixtures is impregnated with narratives.But before the fixtures get underway, here are four potential outcomes to watch out for:
#1 Kylian Mbappe set for electrifying start with Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe will make his much-anticipated Champions League debut for Real Madrid as they face Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart. Despite a somewhat rocky start to his career in Spain, the French superstar is no stranger to delivering when it matters the most.
Real Madrid, while not at their best in La Liga, will look to draw on their historic dominance in the Champions League. Stuttgart’s inexperience at this level could leave them vulnerable to Mbappe’s explosive abilities. If Real Madrid’s supply line clicks, expect the Frenchman to announce his arrival on Europe’s biggest stage with a bang.At 25, Mbappe already has 48 Champions League goals to his name; tonight he could crawl over the 50-mark on his maiden appearance with Real Madrid.
