The UEFA Champions League is back, but not in the way we've known it for years. The 2024/2025 season marks the introduction of a new league phase format that offers a fresh twist to Europe’s elite competition.

Game Week One sets the tone for an exciting new chapter, and here’s a detailed look at the key fixtures and what fans can expect!

 

The New League Phase Format: What’s Changed?🤔

Gone are the traditional group stages, replaced by a league phase where teams play against eight different opponents over the course of the campaign. This creates opportunities for matchups we wouldn’t usually see so early in the competition.

 

Fixtures and kick-off time for the Game week One. 👉👈

 

Tuesday 17 September 2024 

🇮🇹Juventus vs 🇳🇱 PSV - 17:45 PM                                                                           

🇨🇭Young Boys vs 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Aston Villa - 17:45 PM

🇩🇪Bayern Munchen vs 🇭🇷GNK Dinamo - 20:00 PM

🇮🇹Ac Milan vs 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Liverpool - 20:00 PM

🇪🇸Real Madrid vs Stuttgart - 20:00 PM

🇵🇹Sporting CP vs 🇫🇷Lille -  20:00 PM

 

Wednesday 18 September 2024

🇮🇹Bologna vs 🇺🇦Shakhtar Donetsk - 17:45 PM

🇨🇿Sparta Praha vs RB Salzburg - 17:45 PM

🇧🇪Club Brugge vs 🇩🇪Dortmund - 20:00 PM

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿Celtics vs 🇸🇰S. Bratislava - 20:00 PM

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Manchester City vs 🇮🇹Inter Milan - 20:00 PM

🇫🇷PSG vs 🇪🇸Girona  - 20:00 PM

 

Thursday 19 September 2024

🇷🇸FK Crvena zvezda vs 🇵🇹Benfica - 17:45 PM

🇳🇱Feyenoord vs 🇩🇪Levekusen - 17:45 PM

🇮🇹Atalanta vs 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Arsenal - 20:00 PM

🇪🇸Atletico Madrid vs RB Leipzig - 20:00 PM

🇫🇷Monaco vs 🇪🇸Barcelona - 20:00 PM

🇫🇷Brest vs 🇦🇹Sturm Graz - 20:00 PM

 

Headline Matchups to Watch in Game Week One: 💪⚽️

 

🇮🇹Ac Milan vs. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Liverpool: European Heavyweights Collide:

The San Siro is set to host a thrilling clash between two of Europe’s most prestigious clubs—AC Milan and Liverpool. Both teams have undergone significant changes ahead of this season, with AC Milan now under the guidance of Paulo Fonseca and Liverpool led by Dutch tactician Arne Slot.

These managerial shifts add a new dynamic to what is already a high-stakes encounter. Milan will be eager to prove themselves under Fonseca, who is known for his tactical flexibility. On the other side, Liverpool, boasting an equally illustrious Champions League history, will rely on their deadly front three led by Mohamed Salah to put pressure on the Italian giants.

Key Battle⚔️: Milan’s defense, anchored by Fikayo Tomori, will be tasked with stopping the relentless attacking threat of Salah, Jota, and Diaz. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s high press could expose Milan’s sometimes shaky midfield.

Prediction💰: Over 2.5 goals, both teams have potent attacks, but vulnerabilities in defense could lead to a high-scoring game.

 

 

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Manchester City vs. 🇮🇹Inter Milan: A Champions League Final Rematch

 

Game Week One also serves up a rematch of the last two season’s final between Manchester City and Inter Milan. Pep Guardiola’s side are relentless, and with Erling Haaland leading the line, they are the favorites. However, Inter’s defensive resilience, led by Stephan de Vrij, will be key to nullifying City’s attack.

Key Battle⚔️ : Haaland vs. Stephan de Vrij. Can Inter’s defense hold firm against the Norwegian powerhouse? Meanwhile, Inter’s quick transitions, with Lautaro Martínez spearheading them, could pose a threat to City’s high defensive line.

Prediction💰: Manchester City win. With the Etihad behind them and Haaland incredible form, City should overpower Inter.

 

 

Other Key Fixtures to Look Out For: ⚽️⚔️

🇪🇸Real Madrid vs. 🇩🇪Stuttgart:

A fascinating clash as the La Liga giants take on Stuttgart. Kylian Mbappe’s outstanding attacking abilities could unlock the Bundesliga side, but Stuttgart may look to exploit Madrid’s sometimes vulnerable defense.

Prediction💰: Real Madrid win.

 

🇫🇷Monaco vs. 🇪🇸Barcelona:

Two teams with dynamic attacking options. Barcelona’s youthful squad, led by Arguably the most in-form winger in the world, Lamine Yamal, will look to outplay Monaco’s hardworking midfield anchored by Denis Zakaria. This could be a tactical chess match.

Prediction💰: Both teams to score (Yes).

 

🇮🇹Atalanta vs. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Arsenal:

Arsenal’s return will face a dangerous Atalanta side that will be led by Ademola Lookman, Atalanta is known for their high pressing and counter-attacking football. Mikel Arteta will rely on his side’s Premier League form to edge out the Italian team.

Prediction💰:  Arsenal win or draw

 

🇳🇱Feyenoord vs. 🇩🇪Bayer Leverkusen:

An intriguing battle between two exciting teams. Bayer Leverkusen, managed by Xabi Alonso, have a fluid attacking system that could overpower Feyenoord.

Prediction💰:  Both teams to score(yes).

 

🇩🇪Bayern Munich vs. 🇭🇷GNK Dinamo:

Bayern Munich will be heavy favorites against Dinamo Zagreb. Expect a dominant performance from the Bavarians.

Prediction💰:  Harry Kane to score

 

 

Key Players to Watch: ⚽️✨

👉Erling Haaland (Manchester City): The Norwegian goal machine is a constant threat and will be expected to add to his UCL tally against Inter.

👉Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid): The French attacker has made an instant impact in La Liga and will be vital to Madrid’s hopes in Europe.

👉Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): Arsenal’s young talisman will be looking to make his mark on Europe after his standout performances in the Premier League.

👉Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): The teenage prodigy has taken La Liga by storm with his dazzling skills and creativity. His flair and vision will be crucial for Barcelona as they aim to reclaim their European glory.

👉Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): The Egyptian King continues to be Liverpool's talisman, providing goals and assists with remarkable consistency. Salah's pace and clinical finishing will be key to Liverpool's success in their European campaign.

👉Harry Kane (Bayern Munich): The English striker has seamlessly adapted to life in the Bundesliga, bringing his lethal finishing and playmaking abilities. Kane's experience and goal-scoring prowess will be pivotal for Bayern's ambitions in the Champions League.

 

Teams Under Pressure: 😓🏆

 

🇪🇸Real Madrid: Last year's winners, Real Madrid, face immense pressure to replicate their success. With the weight of their storied history and high expectations from fans, anything less than a deep run will be viewed as a disappointment.

🇫🇷Paris Saint-Germain (PSG): Having yet to win the Champions League, PSG are under significant pressure to prove themselves on the European stage. With the departure of key players like Mbappe, the team will be looking to silence critics and finally lift the coveted trophy.

🇩🇪Bayern Munich: Despite dominating domestically, Bayern have struggled to impose themselves in Europe in recent years. The arrival of Harry Kane brings renewed hope, and failure to progress deep into the competition would be seen as a major failure.

 

Final Thoughts and Predictions:⚽️✍️

The new league phase has heightened the drama, and Game Week One offers an incredible array of fixtures that set the tone for the rest of the campaign. Expect fireworks, tactical masterclasses, and plenty of goals as Europe’s finest begin their journey toward UCL glory.

 

Predictions Recap:💰💰

💰🇮🇹Ac Milan vs. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Liverpool - Over 25 goals 

💰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Manchester City vs. 🇮🇹Inter Milan: Manchester City win

 
💰🇪🇸Real Madrid vs. 🇩🇪Stuttgart: Real Madrid win

 
💰🇫🇷Monaco vs. 🇪🇸Barcelona: Both teams to score (yes)

 
💰🇧🇪 Club Brugge vs. 🇩🇪 Borussia Dortmund: Both teams to score (yes)

 
💰🇮🇹Atalanta vs. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Arsenal: Arsenal win or draw

💰🇳🇱Feyenoord vs. 🇩🇪Bayer Leverkusen: Both teams to score(yes)

 
💰🇩🇪Bayern Munich vs. 🇭🇷GNK Dinamo: Harry Kane to score

💰🇪🇸 Atletico Madrid vs. 🇩🇪 RB Leipzig: Under 3.5 goals

 

👉Code for the predictions: B3V9U4A.

 

Find the link here

1. Jaap Stam: "I played with him at AC Milan, and he’s the type of full-back we like in Holland, who likes to take the initiative to attack, but also comes back as quick as he can to defend. He’s a great person as well. He’s played for the national team, won trophies for the national team, and he’s been outstanding for years and years."

 

2. Michael Owen: "I played against Brazil a couple of times, and he and Roberto Carlos were just awesome. They changed the way full-backs played. People thought a full-back should just defend, but in today’s game it’s important for full-backs to be good on the ball as well, and Cafu led the way in this respect."

 

3. Denis Irwin: "What a nightmare to play against. The last thing you need is an overlapping full-back, creating two-versus-one situations against you. He’d bomb on for 90 minutes and wouldn’t give you a minute’s peace. Although Cafu was a fantastic attacking threat, he was also a very capable defender. Never seemed to age."

 

4. Andrea Pirlo: "Trend-setting in being one of the first truly great attacking full-backs. Excellent at getting forward, but very strong defensively as well."

 

 

Player Profile:💪🦵

 

👉Full Name: Marcos Evangelista de Moraes

👉Age: June 7, 1970 (54)

👉Position: Defender - Right-Back

👉Preferred Foot: Right

👉Place of Birth: São Paulo, Brazil

👉Citizenship: Brazilian.

 

 

Style of Play:⚽️🌟

Cafu revolutionized the role of the right-back, transforming it from a purely defensive position to one that required full-backs to be as dangerous in attack as they were solid at the back. His ability to sprint up and down the wing for the full 90 minutes became a nightmare for opposition teams, constantly creating two-on-one situations with his overlapping runs.

Cafu’s speed, stamina, and technical ability made him a dynamic presence in attack, while his defensive skills remained rock solid. One of Cafu’s most remarkable attributes was his balance between attacking prowess and defensive reliability. 

He wasn't just an offensive threat; he had the tactical intelligence and positional awareness to read the game defensively, making crucial interceptions and tackles. His relentless work ethic, both offensively and defensively, set a new standard for full-backs in modern football.

 

 

Achievements: 🏆🥇

 

🏆FIFA World Cup: 1994, 2002 (2x) 
🏆Copa América: 1997, 1999 (2x)
🏆UEFA Champions League: 2006-07
🏆FIFA Club World Cup: 2007
🏆Copa Libertadores: 1992, 1993 (2x)
🏆FIFA Confederations Cup: 1997

 

 

A Legend:

Cafu’s career not only changed how full-backs played but also set a benchmark for generations to come. His combination of energy, technical skill, and leadership made him one of the best right-backs in football history.

 From winning two World Cups with Brazil to lifting the Champions League with AC Milan, Cafu's impact on football is legendary.

 

Find the link here

In the world of football, individual talent reigns supreme, but there’s something magical about siblings who rise to the top together. It’s rare enough for one family member to make it to professional football; now imagine two. And not just any two, but twins.

Sharing DNA, childhood dreams, and professional stages, these footballing twins have a connection that transcends the field. From the beaches of Brazil to the stadiums of Europe, let’s dive into the lives of the top 15 footballing twins who’ve left their mark on the game.

 

1. Frank and Ronald de Boer: 👬🇧🇶

The de Boer twins are iconic figures in Dutch football. Born just 10 minutes apart, Frank and Ronald’s careers were intertwined from the start. They rose through the ranks at Ajax, winning Champions League titles and domestic silverware before embarking on a journey together at FC Barcelona.

Their partnership extended to the Netherlands national team, where their telepathic understanding helped the Oranje reach the semifinals of Euro 2000. Whether defending or attacking, the de Boers were always in sync—a true force to be reckoned with on the pitch.

 

2. Fabio and Rafael da Silva : 👬🇧🇷

From the favelas of Brazil to Old Trafford’s bright lights, Fabio and Rafael da Silva’s rise to prominence is a story of determination and brotherly love. The twin full-backs burst onto the scene at Manchester United, with Sir Alex Ferguson famously unable to tell them apart at first.

While both were aggressive and pacy, Rafael’s marauding runs down the right flank made him a fan favorite, while Fabio held his own on the left. Together, they brought Brazilian flair and fearless energy to one of football’s biggest clubs.

 

3. Lars and Sven Bender:👬🇩🇪

Known for their hard-hitting style and tireless work rate, Lars and Sven Bender were the heart and soul of their respective teams in the Bundesliga. Lars, a mainstay at Bayer Leverkusen, and Sven, who starred for Borussia Dortmund, always brought intensity to the game.

But what makes their story even more special was their emotional farewell: the Bender brothers retired on the same day in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of grit, determination, and loyalty.

 

4. Hamit and Halil Altintop : 👬🇹🇷

The Altintop twins are a footballing duo that many Turkish fans hold dear. Hamit’s career saw him grace the pitches of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, while Halil carved out a solid career in Germany with Schalke 04. Despite their different trajectories, the bond between the two remained strong.

Hamit was known for his versatility, playing in various positions, while Halil’s presence in midfield offered stability. Together, they represented a golden generation of Turkish football.

 

 

5.  Jurrien and Quinten Timber:👬🇧🇶

Jurrien and Quinten Timber are rising stars in Dutch football. The identical twins, both known for their versatility, started their careers at Ajax's famed youth academy.

While Jurrien has become a standout defender for the Netherlands national team and moved to Arsenal, Quinten has made his mark as a midfielder for Feyenoord. Their paths may have diverged, but their talent and potential remain undeniable.

 

6. Jose and Juanmi Callejon: 👬🇪🇸

While Jose Callejon is the more well-known of the two—thanks to his exploits at Napoli and Real Madrid—his twin brother Juanmi has quietly built a solid career in Spain’s lower leagues.

Though they’ve not played at the same level consistently, their shared love for the game has seen them both rise through the Spanish football system. Jose’s pace and technical skills set him apart, but both brothers are respected for their professionalism and work ethic.

 

 

7. Mathias and Florentin Pogba: 👬🇬🇳

Though their younger brother, Paul Pogba, may have gotten the limelight by winning the World Cup with France, Mathias and Florentin Pogba have carved out respectable careers of their own.

The older twins have played in a variety of leagues, including France, Scotland, England, and the MLS, while both also represented Guinea at the international level. Their careers are a testament to the hard work and dedication needed to succeed at the professional level.

 

8. Aleksei and Vasili Berezutski: 👬🇷🇺

The towering Berezutski twins were stalwarts for both CSKA Moscow and the Russian national team. Known for their imposing physical presence, the Berezutski brothers anchored defenses with strength and precision.

Their partnership at the heart of the defense helped CSKA win multiple Russian Premier League titles, as well as the UEFA Cup in 2005.

 

9.  Josh and Jacob Murphy: 👬🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Having come through the Norwich City academy together, the Murphy twins have since taken separate career paths. Jacob has enjoyed success with Newcastle United, playing in the Champions League, while Josh continues to ply his trade with Oxford United in League One.

The winger twins have always maintained a close bond, and despite the divergence in their career trajectories, their passion for the game shines through.

 

10. Radja and Riana Nainggolan: 👫🇧🇪

Radja Nainggolan was a stalwart in Serie A, known for his tough-tackling and dynamic play in midfield for clubs like Inter Milan and Roma.

Now playing in Indonesia, Radja shares a strong footballing connection with his twin sister, Riana, who played professional football and futsal, even representing Belgium in 2015. The Nainggolan twins’ journey showcases the remarkable athletic talent within their family.

 

11. Ewald and Erwin Koeman: 👬🇧🇶

Football runs deep in the Koeman family, and while Ronald Koeman often steals the spotlight, his older brothers, Ewald and Erwin, also made their names in Dutch football.

 Both played for the Netherlands national team and had strong club careers, with Erwin excelling as a midfielder and Ewald later transitioning into coaching. Their contribution to Dutch football cannot be overlooked, as the Koeman family remains one of the most storied footballing dynasties.

 

12.  Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan: 👬🇪🇬

Egyptian legends Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan were mainstays in their national team, amassing over 200 international caps between them. They were integral to Egypt’s dominance in African football during the late 20th century, with Hossam scoring crucial goals and Ibrahim controlling the game from the midfield.

Their twin telepathy on the field made them a fearsome duo, particularly in high-stakes matches.

 

13. Oscar and Angel Romero: 👬🇵🇾

Oscar and Angel Romero, Paraguay’s footballing pride, are identical twins who’ve played together at club level and for their national team. Known for their technical skills and flair, the Romero twins have brought South American creativity to every pitch they’ve graced. Their chemistry is undeniable, as they seamlessly switch roles between midfield and attack.

 

14. Rogelio and Ramiro Funes Mori: 👬🇦🇷

Twins with contrasting positions, Rogelio and Ramiro Funes Mori bring balance to their family. Ramiro, a center-back, and Rogelio, a forward, have both had successful careers, with Ramiro playing for Villarreal and Everton, while Rogelio has made a name for himself in Mexico.

It’s not often you see a defender and a striker in the same family, but the Funes Moris prove that versatility runs in their blood.

 

15. David and Philipp Degen: 👬🇨🇭

The Degen brothers were both selected to represent Switzerland at the 2006 World Cup, making them key figures in Swiss football. Their careers mirrored one another closely, with both winning multiple Swiss league titles at FC Basel. Philipp, however, edged ahead by playing for Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.

Together, they won four league titles with Basel, cementing their status as Basel legends.

 

 

The Power of Twin Telepathy: 👬❤️⚽️

Football is a game of chemistry, and who better to embody that than twins? Whether they’ve played side by side or pursued separate careers, these 15 footballing twins have brought a unique connection to the pitch. From their youth playing together in backyards to the grandest stages of professional football, their bond has only strengthened their performances.

In a sport where every inch counts, the instinctive understanding between these brothers has often made all the difference. As we celebrate these remarkable duos, one can only wonder—what’s next for the next generation of footballing twins?

 

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Football has seen its fair share of talented but controversial figures. These "bad boys" of the game are as famous for their antics off the pitch as they are for their skills on it. From aggressive tackles to bizarre behaviour, these players left their mark in football’s history.

Mario Balotelli: "Why Always Me?"

Mario Balotelli’s career has been punctuated by moments of brilliance and controversy. From his infamous “Why always me?” shirt celebration to his erratic off-field antics, Balotelli constantly found himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

He once threw darts at youth team players and was notorious for training ground bust-ups. His most infamous moment came when he stamped on Tottenham's Scott Parker during a Premier League match, resulting in a four-match ban. Despite his undeniable talent, his unpredictable nature made him a divisive figure.

Diego Maradona: The "Hand of God" and More

Diego Maradona’s "Hand of God" goal in the 1986 World Cup is one of the most controversial moments in football history. However, his on-field brilliance was often overshadowed by his off-field scandals.

From partying with the Italian mafia to testing positive for cocaine and indulging in wild orgies, Maradona's life was a whirlwind of excess. Even after a drug-induced heart attack, he remained beloved by Argentina, where his imperfections made him more human in the eyes of many.

Joey Barton: Violence On and Off the Pitch

Joey Barton’s career was marked by violence, both on and off the field. He punched teammate Ousmane Dabo during training and attacked three opponents in one game, even after receiving a red card. His troubles extended beyond the pitch when he served 77 days in prison for assault.

Barton’s notorious two-minute outburst in a match against Manchester City, where he punched Carlos Tevez, kicked Sergio Agüero and tried to confront Balotelli, cemented his reputation as one of football’s most volatile characters.

Luis Suarez: The Biter

Luis Suarez made headlines for his biting incidents, with the most infamous being his bite on Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup, earning him a four-month ban. This was the third time Suarez had bitten an opponent.

Known for diving and unsportsmanlike behaviour, Suarez's darker moments often outshone his incredible goal-scoring ability. His intentional handball during the 2010 World Cup quarterfinal against Ghana and a racial slur towards Patrice Evra further stained his reputation.

Vinnie Jones: From Football's "Hard Man" to Hollywood

Vinnie Jones, known for his aggressive style on the field, became a Hollywood icon for playing tough guys in films. As part of Wimbledon’s "Crazy Gang," Jones terrorized opponents and hosted a video titled “Soccer’s Hard Men,” which earned him a fine and suspension.

His legacy as one of football's toughest players followed him to the silver screen, where he continued to embrace his "bad boy" persona.

Gennaro Gattuso: The Italian Enforcer

Gennaro Gattuso was renowned for his fiery temperament and aggressive tackles. His short fuse frequently led to altercations on the pitch, and his ruthless style made him both feared and loved. Gattuso’s hard-nosed approach epitomized the grit and toughness of old-school Italian football.

Sergio Ramos & Pepe: The Calculated Avengers

The famous centre-back pair for Spanish giants, Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos and Pepe were infamous for their fouling and ability to exact revenge with precision. Whether breaking up plays or injuring key players, Ramos and Pepe had become masters of the dark arts of football.

Their reputation as a no-nonsense defender is matched by their ability to influence the course of games, even at the cost of others' careers.

Sulley Muntari: The Slapper

The fact that the Ghanaian midfielder played for both Inter Milan and AC Milan should say a lot about his credentials as a hot-tempered player, however, the Ghanaian has not showcased his angered side as much for his Italian clubs as he did when he was on national team duty.

Muntari was reportedly sacked from his national team camp in Brazil during the 2014 FIFA World Cup after he allegedly slapped one of the members of the team’s technical staff after a misunderstanding. Long Before this incident, however, Muntari had already made the “bad boy” name.

These footballers pushed boundaries and defined the darker side of the sport. Whether through violence, scandal, or sheer defiance, they remain some of football’s most hard-core and stubborn figures.

You can follow and check out today’s games on MSport here.