The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League playoffs kicked off on February 12, 2025, with four electrifying matches that left fans on the edge of their seats. From last-minute penalties to tactical masterclasses, here’s a breakdown of the action and reactions from the football world.
Club Brugge 2-1 Atalanta: Late Penalty Stirs Controversy
Result:
Club Brugge snatched a dramatic 2-1 win over Atalanta thanks to a stoppage-time penalty by substitute Gustaf Nilsson. Ferran Jutglà opened the scoring in the 15th minute, but Mario Pašalić’s header leveled the game before halftime. The decisive moment came in the 94th minute when Atalanta’s Isak Hien was penalized for a light hand-to-face contact with Nilsson, sparking fury from the Italian side.
Highlights:
- Jutglà’s early strike set the tone for Brugge’s aggressive start. - Atalanta dominated the second half but failed to capitalize on chances, including a close-range miss by Samardžić. - Tempers flared post-match as Atalanta players protested the penalty decision.
Reaction:
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini fumed: *“We’re moving toward a direction I no longer recognize. These rules are ruining football.”* Sky Sports pundit Beppe Bergomi called it *“a harsh call that overshadowed an otherwise thrilling contest.”*
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Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich: Kane Haunts Schmeichel Again
Result:
Harry Kane’s clinical volley secured a 2-1 away win for Bayern, though Celtic kept hope alive with Daizen Maeda’s late goal. Michael Olise’s stunning strike just before halftime broke the deadlock, while Celtic’s spirited performance impressed despite the loss.
Highlights:
- Olise’s curling effort from outside the box left Kasper Schmeichel stranded. - Celtic’s defensive duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty struggled against Bayern’s attack. - Maeda’s 83rd-minute goal reignited Celtic’s hopes for the second leg.
Reaction:
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany praised his team: *“Celtic’s fans rarely see defeats here. This win means a lot.”* Ex-England striker Gary Lineker tweeted: *“Kane vs Schmeichel is football’s never-ending saga. 19 goals and counting!”*
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Feyenoord 1-0 AC Milan: Maignan Mistake Costs Rossoneri
Result:
Feyenoord capitalized on Mike Maignan’s third-minute blunder, as the Milan goalkeeper spilled Igor Paixão’s shot into his own net. The Dutch side held firm defensively, handing Milan’s new signing Kyle Walker a nightmare Champions League debut.
Highlights:
- Paixão terrorized Milan’s defense all night, outmuscling Walker repeatedly. - Milan struggled to create clear chances, with Rafael Leão kept quiet. - Feyenoord’s interim coach Pascal Bosschaart celebrated a dream start after replacing Brian Priske.
Reaction:
Bosschaart called it *“a reward for bravery,”* while Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano noted: *“Milan’s lack of cutting edge in Europe continues to haunt them.”*
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Monaco 0-1 Benfica: Pavlidis Shines, Di Maria Injured
Result:
Benfica’s in-form striker Vangelis Pavlidis chipped in a delicate winner in the 48th minute, extending his Champions League tally to six goals. Monaco’s Al Musrati saw red shortly after, compounding their misery, while Angel Di Maria limped off with a hamstring injury.
Highlights:
- Pavlidis’ clever finish showcased his confidence after a recent hat-trick against Barcelona. - Di Maria’s injury cast a shadow over Benfica’s victory. - Monaco’s disciplined defense cracked under Pavlidis’ relentless pressure.
Reaction:
Benfica coach Roger Schmidt hailed Pavlidis as *“the most lethal striker in Europe right now.”* Ex-Portugal star Deco added: *“Pavlidis is unstoppable—a nightmare for any defender.”*
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What’s Next?
The second legs promise even more drama, with Celtic aiming to overturn their deficit in Munich and Atalanta seeking revenge in Bergamo. For Milan and Monaco, the task is daunting but not impossible. One thing’s certain: the road to the Champions League round of 16 has never been more thrilling!
*Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on your favorite teams!*