United, Arsenal, Real claw out narrow Champions League wins

The Champions League produced tight games on Tuesday, Oct. 24. Groups A, B, C and D were in action, which meant some of the biggest clubs in Europe were on display. While there was not a standout headline clash, there were pivotal games. For example, Manchester United sought its first points at home against Copenhagen. Arsenal, after losing last time out at Lens, was back on the road against the defending Europa League champions, Sevilla. In that same group, Lens hosted PSV in what could be the tightest group.

In the end, each game but two finished as a one-goal contest. The exception in the later kickoffs was that Lens game against PSV. That game ended as a 1-1 draw after two second-half goals. Here are some of the other major results from around the Champions League on the day.

Andre Onana and Harry Maguire the heroes for United

Entering Manchester United’s game against Copenhagen, the lights at Old Trafford were exceedingly bright. There was no bigger focus than that on Harry Maguire and Andre Onana. The center-back and goalkeeper became the scapegoats for Manchester United’s struggles this season, arguably not without reason.

However, those two players were the heroes for Erik ten Hag in what the manager called a must-win game at Old Trafford. After a dreary first half between the two, the game opened up in the second half. Christian Eriksen entered the game and dramatically helped the offensive creativity of Manchester United.

The Dane provided the assist on Harry Maguire’s goal in the 72nd minute. The much-maligned center-back was alone at the back post for Eriksen’s cross. His sliding effort powered the ball into the ground and into the Copenhagen net.

However, at the end of the game, it almost evaporated. Scott McTominay gave away a penalty for a high kick as United tried to clear away a corner toward the end of stoppage time. Jordan Larsson stepped up to take the penalty. His effort met the diving right arm of Andre Onana. Onana, who was directly responsible for goals conceded in both of United’s first two Champions League losses, had his moment of redemption in front of Old Trafford. Devoid of confidence, the United players rallied around Onana to celebrate a massive three points. United now trails Galatasaray by a single point in its Champions League group.

Gabriel Jesus and Jude Bellingham dominant for Arsenal and Real

In the Arsenal game at Sevilla, one player had a role in both of the Gunners’ goals. Gabriel Jesus set up Gabriel Martinelli’s opener just before halftime. The Brazilian brilliantly brought down the ball in the middle of the field following a Sevilla corner. One quick turn later, Jesus played his compatriot into a breakaway through the Sevilla defense. Martinelli took a touch around Sevilla goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland and calmly passed it into the net.

In the second half, Jesus turned from provider to finisher. This time, he picked up the ball outside the Sevilla penalty box. Upon entering the area, he lashed a shot into the far right. The two-goal lead proved crucial for Arsenal. Sevilla pulled a goal back through Nemanja Gudelj on a header. Then, just as the game neared completion, David Raya fluffed a clearance with a punch, and the ball dropped up and over the crossbar.

Real Madrid also survived a comeback attempt on Tuesday in its game against Braga. Rodrygo scored in the first half to give Real Madrid a halftime lead. Then, in the second half, a familiar face scored again for Los Blancos. Jude Bellingham scored his 11th goal of the season in the second half to give Real a two-goal lead. Bellingham now has one goal in each of Real Madrid’s Champions League games this season.

However, just like Arsenal, the finish was not so comfortable. Braga halved Real Madrid’s lead just two minutes after Bellingham’s goal. For the next 15 minutes, Braga dominated Real Madrid. Kepa Arrizabalaga needed to make a crucial save in the 70th minute. However, Braga could not find the back of the net, and it was enough for Real Madrid to make it three wins from three Champions League games.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Sportimage, PA Images.