UCL Wrap: Mbappé, Haaland fire their clubs to glory

The 2026/2027 UEFA Champions League kicked off with star players making headlines by firing their clubs to victory on September 8, 2026.

The crucial game was staged at the Bernabéu, where Real Madrid defeated Italian champions Inter Milan 2-1 to start in grand style. Goals from Kylian Mbappé and Federico Valverde secured the win despite both sides missing several chances.

Another top clash took place in Portugal, where FC Porto lost 2-0 to Manchester City, with Erling Haaland’s brace earning the visitors all three points.

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In Germany, Borussia Dortmund edged Villarreal 3-2, thanks to a brace from Serhou Guirassy that propelled them past their opponents.

Elsewhere, Lille succumbed to a 2-3 loss against Real Betis, with Marc Bartra’s two goals sealing victory for the away side. AEK Athens also claimed a narrow 1-0 win over LASK.

Aston Villa traveled to face Club Brugge and secured a slim 3-2 victory, with goals from John McGinn, Emiliano Buendía, and Nicolas Jackson giving them three crucial points.

This was matchday one of eight, with the remaining fixtures set to be played in the coming weeks.

SB/JKB

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