Arsenal FC lived up to their role as favorites against PSV Eindhoven at the start of the Champions League. Galatasaray Istanbul just managed to avoid a false start.
The Gunners started off with a convincing 4-0 (3-0) win against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday (September 20, 2923). Arsenal set the course for victory early on. Bukayo Saka (8th), Leandro Trossard (20th) and Gabriel Jesus (38th) scored for Spaniard Mikel Arteta’s team, which remained confident in the second half against the now improved guests and added further through Martin Odegaard (70th).
In the parallel game in Group B, Sevilla FC and RC Lens drew 1-1 (1-1).
Benfica Lisbon stumbles
Benfica Lisbon cost dearly for defender Antonio Silva’s early miss in the 0-2 (0-1) loss against RB Salzburg. Things were high from the start in Lisbon, with Salzburg being awarded two penalties at the start.
Karim Konate missed the first (3′), Roko Simic (15′) converted the second for the guests from Salzburg, who were now in the majority. Benfica defender Silva cleared with his hand on the line. In the second round, Oscar Gloukh (51st) increased for RB.
Late equalizer for Inter
Inter Milan left a sluggish impression. Simone Inzaghi’s team avoided a late defeat at Real Sociedad from San Sebastian. Lautaro Martinez scored in the 87th minute to make the final score 1-1 (0-1).
Sporting Braga and the Italian champions SSC Napoli drew 1:2 (0:1).
Galatasaray fights for a draw
Thanks to two goals shortly before the end, Turkish soccer champions Galatasaray Istanbul managed a 2-2 (0-1) draw against FC Copenhagen. Sacha Boey (86th minute) and Tetê (88th) gave the hosts a point within two minutes.
Mohamed Elyounoussi (35th minute) and Diogo Gonçalves (58th) had previously given the Danes the lead. After Elias Jelert was sent off (73′), the Scandinavians began to falter.