AC Milan finally tasted victory in the Champions League, securing their first points of the season with a 3-1 home win against Club Brugge. The seven-time European champions had a shaky start to their campaign, losing their first two matches. However, they bounced back in style, thanks in part to a brace from Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders.
The match was a thrilling affair from the outset. Club Brugge started brightly, putting pressure on Milan’s defense and forcing goalkeeper Mike Maignan into early saves. However, Milan eventually found their rhythm, and Christian Pulisic put them ahead in the 34th minute with a stunning direct corner kick.
Brugge were reduced to ten men in the 40th minute when Raphael Onyedika was sent off for a foul on Reijnders, a decision made after a lengthy VAR review.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Brugge managed to equalize in the second half through Kyriani Sabbe, who fired a low shot into the far corner. However, Milan soon regained control, and Reijnders scored twice within a ten-minute spell to secure the win. First, he finished coolly from close range in the 61st minute, and then he repeated the feat ten minutes later, capitalizing on another well-timed pass.
Meanwhile, Monaco continued their impressive start to the Champions League campaign with a resounding 5-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade. The French side dominated proceedings from the start, with Takumi Minamino scoring twice, while Breel Embolo, Wilfried Singo, and Maghnes Akliouche also found the back of the net.
Monaco’s dominance was evident throughout the match, as they created numerous chances and controlled the tempo of the game. Red Star, despite a penalty goal from Cherif Ndiaye, were largely outplayed and looked overwhelmed by Monaco’s attacking prowess. The Serbian champions have now lost all three of their Champions League matches this season.
These victories have set up exciting upcoming fixtures for both clubs. AC Milan will travel to defending champions Real Madrid on November 5th, while Monaco will face Bologna on the same day.
The Champions League continues to be a thrilling spectacle, with unpredictable results and outstanding performances from both established and emerging teams. The battles for top spot in each group are far from over, and the coming weeks promise to be even more exciting as the competition reaches its peak.