Matchday five of the 2024/25 Champions League provided plenty of drama and talking points as Europe’s elite clubs battled to secure their places in the knockout stages. From Liverpool’s clinical display to Manchester City’s defensive frailties, here’s what stood out.
Liverpool unstoppable
Liverpool continued their dominant run, with goals coming from across their frontline. Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Cody Gakpo have all scored more than seven goals in all competitions this season, showing the depth of the Reds’ attacking options. Against Real Madrid, despite Salah missing a penalty, Alexis Mac Allister and Gakpo struck to give Liverpool a 2-0 win at Anfield.
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool has found stability and balance, combining a high-pressing attack with a tight defense. Only Inter Milan (5) have kept more clean sheets than Liverpool (4). Midfielders Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones, and Mac Allister have been instrumental in driving forward with progressive runs and key passes. Even though Slot has been at the helm for a short time, his influence has been immediate, maintaining the team’s identity as a relentless, high-intensity side.
Real Madrid’s problems beyond Mbappe
Real Madrid’s night at Anfield highlighted deeper issues within the squad. Kylian Mbappé, signed to help secure a long-awaited Champions League trophy, scored just one goal in five games and missed a penalty against Liverpool. His role remains unclear, unable to replace Vinicius on the left wing or adapt effectively elsewhere.
Tactically, Madrid appeared devoid of ideas. Even with key players like Vinicius and Rodrygo fit, the team struggled to impose themselves. Recent losses and inconsistent performances suggest that Madrid must address both tactical and personnel issues quickly to salvage their campaign.
Multi-faceted Barcelona
Barcelona’s transformation under Hansi Flick is becoming increasingly evident. Despite injuries to Lamine Yamal and a quiet game from Raphinha against Brest, Lewandowski’s brace and Dani Olmo’s goal secured a 3-0 win. Flick’s tactical ingenuity, including a high press and flexible attack, has reinvigorated the squad, elevating them as serious contenders alongside Liverpool.
Raphinha has emerged as a key figure, combining leadership, agility, and goal-scoring ability. With six Champions League goals so far, he complements Lewandowski’s prolific form, proving pivotal in crucial fixtures.
City need to catch a break
Manchester City’s Champions League woes continued, as their 4-1 collapse against Sporting CP highlighted serious defensive vulnerabilities. City surrendered a three-goal lead in just 15 second-half minutes, marking a historic failure for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The absence of Rodri, sidelined with an ACL injury, has exposed the team’s lack of balance. Ageing stars—De Bruyne (33), Walker (34), and Bernardo Silva (30)—show signs of decline, while over-reliance on Erling Haaland for goals has left the squad one-dimensional. The Cityzens are now fighting just to stay in contention for the play-offs, with morale and confidence under strain.
Inzaghi keeps inspiring Inter Milan
Simone Inzaghi’s Inter Milan continues to impress. Using a flexible 3-4-3 formation, Inter has been compact defensively and potent in attack. Their 5-3-2 defensive setup without the ball makes them extremely difficult to break down, contributing to the only unbeaten defensive record in the competition so far. Against Leipzig, Inzaghi’s tactical planning and execution highlighted the strategic edge Inter holds in this season’s tournament.
Conclusion
Matchday five underlined the contrasting fortunes of Europe’s elite. Liverpool remains unstoppable under Slot, Barcelona is thriving under Flick, Real Madrid faces tactical and personnel questions, Manchester City teeters on the edge, and Inter Milan continues to impress with their tactical discipline. With only a few matchdays left in the league phase, the race for knockout qualification is intensifying, promising more drama in the Champions League.
