Champions League: Key Matchups and Storylines to Watch on Wednesday of Matchday 3
As Matchday 3 of the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League continues, here’s what to look out for in Wednesday’s nine fixtures. With pivotal moments in the league phase, teams are eager to
Atalanta vs Celtic (18:45)
After a strong start with a 5-1 win over Slovan Bratislava, Celtic suffered a crushing 7-1 defeat to Dortmund, leaving them shaken ahead of facing Europa League champions Atalanta. Midfielder Callum McGregor noted, “It’s a lesson for us,” signaling the need to regroup. Atalanta, with four points, look to capitalize on their 3-0 win over Shakhtar to push for a top spot.
Did you know? Atalanta have lost just two of their last 16 UEFA matches.
Brest vs Leverkusen (18:45)
Brest’s surprising start in their debut Champions League season has them second in their group, with victories over Sturm Graz and Salzburg. Goalkeeper Marco Bizot admitted no one expected this success. However, they face a serious challenge against an unbeaten Leverkusen side, fresh from victories against Feyenoord and Milan.
Did you know? Brest’s 4-0 win at Salzburg set a record for a French club's biggest UEFA away win in Austria.
Manchester City vs Sparta Praha
Sparta Praha is content with their four points after two tough matches but acknowledges the upcoming clash with Manchester City as their biggest challenge yet. Pep Guardiola’s City are also on four points and are coming off a dominant 4-0 win over Slovan Bratislava.
Did you know? Manchester City is unbeaten in their last 25 Champions League matches, tying Manchester United’s record.
Leipzig vs Liverpool
Liverpool looks to maintain their perfect start, having secured two wins against Italian teams. Mohamed Salah emphasized the importance of staying consistent. Leipzig, however, aims to rebound from their losses to Atlético Madrid and Juventus, with coach Marco Rose calling for more resilience.
Did you know? Liverpool has won 13 of their last 14 group-stage matches in the Champions League.
Barcelona vs Bayern Munich
This matchup is one of the marquee fixtures, with Barcelona looking to break their six-game losing streak against Bayern. Coach Hansi Flick, formerly at Bayern, is keen to lead his new team to victory against his old one. Bayern, coming off a loss to Aston Villa, will be looking to bounce back.
Did you know? Bayern had been unbeaten in a record 41 Champions League group-stage matches before their loss to Aston Villa.
Atlético Madrid vs Lille
After a disastrous 4-0 defeat to Benfica, Atlético Madrid is looking for redemption at home. Meanwhile, Lille stunned defending champions Real Madrid with a 1-0 victory and will aim to keep the momentum going.
Did you know? Atlético Madrid is unbeaten in their last 11 Champions League home matches.
Benfica vs Feyenoord
Benfica will look to build on their impressive 4-0 win over Atlético, while Feyenoord comes in with renewed confidence after their first away win in the Champions League in 22 years.
Did you know? Feyenoord hasn’t drawn in their last 17 UEFA competition matches.
Salzburg vs GNK Dinamo
After starting the campaign with two defeats, Salzburg views their home match against GNK Dinamo as a must-win. Dinamo, who earned a 2-2 draw against Monaco, aims to continue improving.
Did you know? Salzburg has started a Champions League campaign with back-to-back losses for the first time.
Young Boys vs Inter
Young Boys are hoping to rebound from a 5-0 defeat to Barcelona, with goalkeeper Marvin Keller optimistic about lessons learned. Inter, on the other hand, continues to show dominance, recently winning 4-0 against Crvena Zvezda.
Did you know? Inter has kept 10 clean sheets in their last 16 Champions League matches.
With these key storylines and stats, Wednesday's fixtures promise to deliver plenty of drama and excitement.
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