Como delivered the statement result as the third Champions League matchday came to a close, overwhelming Manchester United 4-1 in one of the evening’s most striking performances. Cesc Fàbregas’ side did not merely beat a three-time European champion; they outplayed a club whose problems are deepening after a sixth match without victory under Michael Carrick.
The Italian side’s display was built on quick, controlled possession rather than direct football. Como moved the ball at speed, kept their players close together and repeatedly found combinations through the third man, with their attacking lines advancing in unison. Nico Paz, the former Real Madrid academy prospect, continued his strong run of form at the heart of a performance that turned the match into the surprise of the round.
Madrid recover after Courtois intervention
Real Madrid also won 4-1, but their night against Leipzig began with a familiar rescue act from Thibaut Courtois. With the score still goalless, the goalkeeper denied Leipzig twice when goals appeared certain.
Those saves changed the direction of the contest. Madrid subsequently took control and completed a comfortable victory without being pushed into a major physical effort.
Kane keeps Bayern alive against Arsenal
The most evenly matched contest on paper produced a 2-2 draw between Bayern Munich and Arsenal. The result reflected a game in which Bayern again leaned heavily on Harry Kane when they were behind.
The England captain created Alphonso Davies’ equaliser before converting a penalty himself. Kane has now scored in 10 successive Champions League appearances, an extraordinary sequence as the Ballon d’Or approaches in less than a week. He is regarded as one of the few players capable of challenging Lamine Yamal for the award.
Betis join the leading group
Betis continued their perfect start with another victory, taking their tally to nine points from nine. They sit among the early leaders alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Aston Villa.
Barcelona, meanwhile, were beaten in Paris but remain inside the top eight, leaving them still well placed despite the setback on French soil.
