Liverpool secured a crucial 1-0 victory against Inter Milan in the Champions League, while Barcelona and Bayern Munich also claimed important wins. The match between Liverpool and Inter was marked by VAR controversy and the notable absence of Mohamed Salah.
Dominik Szoboszlai's late penalty proved to be the difference-maker at the San Siro. The penalty was awarded after Florian Wirtz was tugged down in the area by Alessandro Bastoni. Despite initial struggles and a disallowed goal by Ibrahima Konate due to a VAR review for handball, Liverpool persevered. Szoboszlai confidently converted the 88th-minute spot-kick, securing a vital win for his team. This victory propels Liverpool into the top eight in the Champions League league phase, leveling on points with Inter.
The absence of Mohamed Salah from the squad was a major talking point. Salah was left out after publicly criticizing manager Arne Slot following a draw against Leeds. Despite Salah's absence and injuries to key players like Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa, Liverpool demonstrated resilience.
Barcelona also secured a 2-1 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt. Jules Kounde's two headers were instrumental in Barcelona's win. Ansgar Knauff had put Eintracht ahead in the first half, but Kounde's goals in the second half secured the comeback victory for Barcelona. This win places Barcelona 13th in the league phase. Barcelona has won the Champions League five times, with their last title coming in 2015.
Bayern Munich also overcame a deficit to beat Sporting Lisbon 3-1. After Joshua Kimmich's own goal gave Sporting Lisbon the lead, Bayern responded with goals from Serge Gnabry and 17-year-old Lennart Karl. Jonathan Tah added a third to seal the win for Bayern. Bayern Munich has a rich history in the Champions League, winning the title six times. In 2020, they won their sixth title as part of a treble-winning season.
Other notable Champions League results include Atalanta's 2-1 win over Chelsea and Atlético Madrid's 3-2 victory against PSV Eindhoven. These results contributed to a matchday filled with comebacks and close contests.
