The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League season is set to deliver an exciting round of fixtures as the competition returns with a revamped 36-team format. This season promises thrilling encounters, including Feyenoord’s home clash against Bayer Leverkusen, Red Star Belgrade’s showdown with Benfica, and Atlético Madrid’s battle against RB Leipzig. Here’s a closer look at these key matches and what to expect.
September 20, 9:45 PST: Feyenoord vs. Bayer Leverkusen
Feyenoord will host Bayer Leverkusen in a highly anticipated match. Last season, Leverkusen emerged as a surprise package in German football, clinching both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal titles, while also reaching the Europa League final. However, the new season started with a setback as Leverkusen suffered a home defeat to RB Leipzig. Notably, Leverkusen’s three victories this season have all come away from home. On the other hand, Feyenoord has struggled under their new coach, with a record of 1 win and 4 draws from five matches, including a 4-4 draw against PSV Eindhoven. In their first encounter, Leverkusen is expected to have the edge, given their strong away form.
September 20, 9:45 PST: Red Star Belgrade vs. Benfica
Also on September 20 at 00:45 CET, Red Star Belgrade will face Benfica in a match full of intrigue. Red Star, a Serbian powerhouse with a history of winning the Champions League, has performed impressively this season with a record of 7 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Benfica, meanwhile, has struggled away from home, failing to secure a win in two matches. The starting line-ups and home-field advantage will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this game.
September 20, 12:00 PST: Atlético Madrid vs. RB Leipzig
Finally, on September 20 at 03:00 CET, Atlético Madrid will take on RB Leipzig. This match will test Leipzig’s attacking capabilities. Atlético Madrid, bolstered by new forward Álvaro, has been solid defensively, keeping clean sheets in their last four matches. Álvaro also ended his scoring drought in the most recent game. Leipzig, on the other hand, saw their four-game winning streak in the Bundesliga come to an end with a draw against Union Berlin. Currently, Atlético Madrid holds a slight advantage.
Each of these matches is packed with potential surprises and excitement. With the Champions League action set to unfold, football fans are in for a treat.
