November 5 and 6 presented the soccer world with several surprises as some of the biggest clubs in Europe recorded Champions League defeats and vice-versa. Many things changed this season in the UEFA Champions League, including an expansion from 32 teams to 36. In the new form of competition, the teams will compete in leagues. Every team is to play eight matches against varying opponents. On these two dates, a total of 18 matches were played, with many standing out.
One of the biggest surprises came on November 5 when Champions League holders Real Madrid faced off against AC Milan. Real Madrid lost 3-1, only AC Milan’s second win against Real Madrid ever. It was particularly damaging for Madrid, coming shortly after their defeat to FC Barcelona. Milan had much possession and were more hazardous with goalscoring chances on than their hosts. Real Madrid, with one of the world’s most fearsome attacking trios, have struggled all year and sit in second place in La Liga and 18th in the new look Champions League format, and with historically few goals taken.
On the same night, Sporting Lisbon pulled off a 4-1 win against Manchester City. Sporting is second in the standings with Liverpool just ahead, while French side AS Monaco is third. The win continued the excellent season by Sporting under their head coach Rúben Amorim. It also underlined the struggles of Manchester City, who lost four of their last four matches.
Another exciting match was between FC Barcelona and FC Crvena Zvezda, which Barcelona won 5-2. Barcelona’s resounding victory extended their victory streak in La Liga and Champions League. Currently, they lead the La Liga, while Real Madrid is in the second place and Atlético Madrid is in third. In Champions League, they stand in sixth position, with strong attacking form as forwards combining for 55 goals in both league and European competition.
Overall, on November 5 and 6, big names like Real Madrid and Manchester City had to taste defeats, while the teams of AC Milan, Sporting Lisbon and Barcelona remained on winning streaks.
