The Champions League is set to kick off with some thrilling encounters in Matchweek 1 of the 2024-25 season. While many top European clubs face relatively easy fixtures, a few heavyweights, including Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, will face tough challenges right from the start.
Here are the key battles to watch:
Erling Haaland vs Francesco Acerbi
The standout fixture in Matchweek 1 sees Manchester City taking on Inter Milan, a rematch of the 2023 Champions League final. One of the most anticipated duels will be between City’s goal machine Erling Haaland and Inter’s veteran defender Francesco Acerbi.
In their last encounter, Acerbi effectively neutralized Haaland, allowing him just one shot and the fewest touches of any player in the match. However, with Haaland already scoring nine goals in this season’s Premier League, the task for Acerbi—now 36—will be tougher than ever.
Christian Pulisic vs Andrew Robertson
AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic faces a stern test against Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson at the San Siro. Pulisic, under pressure after Milan’s early Serie A struggles, will need to break through Robertson’s solid defensive work.
Robertson, known for his pace and versatility, will aim to shut down Pulisic’s creativity and playmaking, making their individual battle key to the match’s outcome.
Diego Simeone vs Marco Rose
The tactical showdown between Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone and RB Leipzig’s Marco Rose is one of the most intriguing matchups in Matchweek 1. Both teams rely on counter-attacks, with Atletico known for their compact defense and Leipzig for their high press and quick scoring opportunities.
This contest is likely to be a low-scoring, cagey affair, with the outcome hinging on which manager can outsmart the other with their formation and tactics.
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