CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Arsenal rally past Girona to seal Champions League knockout spot

Arsenal secured their place in the Champions League knockout stage with a 2-1 comeback victory over Girona, scoring twice in a four-minute first-half burst.

Despite their strong position going into the match, pre-game discussions centered on the Gunners’ interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. Girona appeared poised for an upset when Arnaut Danjuma took advantage of goalkeeper Neto’s rushed clearance, curling the ball into an empty net in the 28th minute.

Neto, making his Arsenal debut in place of the injured David Raya, was left stranded as Danjuma struck. However, Arsenal responded swiftly.

Jorginho equalized from the penalty spot ten minutes later after Thomas Partey was fouled by Arnau Martinez. The turnaround was complete just before half-time when 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri cut inside from the right and curled a stunning effort into the bottom corner.

Girona nearly leveled in the second half through Cristhian Stuani, but his tap-in was ruled out for offside. In stoppage time, Arsenal had a chance to extend their lead, but Pau Lopez saved Raheem Sterling’s penalty.

The victory places Arsenal on 19 points, comfortably securing a spot among the top eight heading into the Champions League knockout rounds.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Guardiola admits tough task as Manchester City draw Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in Champions League play-offs

EXPOSED! Pep Guardiola 'Secretly Discussing' Huge Job After Man City Exit

Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the significant challenge his Manchester City side faces after being drawn against either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the Champions League play-offs.

City secured their place in the play-offs with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Club Brugge at the Etihad Stadium. The Premier League champions were on the brink of elimination but mounted a comeback with goals from Mateo Kovacic, an own goal by Joel Ordonez, and a strike from Savinho.

Reacting to the draw, Guardiola admitted that both potential opponents currently have the upper hand over City.

“Going to Bayern Munich or Real Madrid will be really tough,” Guardiola said. “They are better than us right now, both of them, but I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next two weeks.”

The City boss, however, remained optimistic, highlighting the potential return of key players, including Ruben Dias, Nathan Aké, Jérémy Doku, and Oscar Bobb, which he believes could bolster their chances.

“We have a few players back, the new signings back, so hopefully we can do two good games,” Guardiola added.

The first leg of the play-offs is scheduled to take place in two weeks, with City looking to assert their dominance on the European stage after winning the competition in 2023.