(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Champions League 2025: Real Madrid, Arsenal, Juventus and More Begin Group Stage Campaigns
Madrid: The UEFA Champions League 2025 group stage kicks off on Tuesday, with Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Juventus all beginning their quest for European glory.
Real Madrid vs Marseille: Mbappe Ready for New Challenge
Real Madrid open their campaign at home against Olympique de Marseille as they aim for a record-extending 16th European Cup.
Coach Xabi Alonso dismissed talk that star striker Kylian Mbappe is impatient to lift the trophy, saying the Frenchman is already proving to be a leader in the squad.
“Mbappe is part of the journey, but I don’t see him as impatient,” Alonso told reporters. “He brings personality, experience, and quality — but success depends on the whole team.”
Mbappe has scored four goals in four La Liga matches this season. Meanwhile, midfielder Jude Bellingham has been named in the squad after recovering from a shoulder injury.
Marseille arrive with two wins and two defeats from their Ligue 1 campaign so far, but they have struggled in away games.
Arsenal vs Athletic Bilbao: New-Look Attack
Premier League runners-up Arsenal begin their European campaign against Athletic Bilbao with a refreshed frontline.
Manager Mikel Arteta spent the summer strengthening his attack, signing Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze. With Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz sidelined by injuries, the new arrivals are expected to play a crucial role.
Bilbao captain Inaki Williams welcomed the challenge:
“We are not afraid of anyone. For years we’ve fought for this moment, and we want to grow our dream.”
His younger brother Nico Williams will miss the match due to injury. Coach Ernesto Valverde praised Arteta’s philosophy, calling Arsenal “a team with a clear identity.”
Dortmund vs Juventus: A Tough Test in Germany
Juventus travel to face Borussia Dortmund, last season’s Champions League runners-up.
Juve coach Igor Tudor urged his players to stay grounded after their thrilling 4-3 Serie A win against Inter Milan, warning that European competition brings tougher challenges.
Dortmund are unbeaten in the Bundesliga this season, with two wins and a draw, and remain strong contenders at home.
Other Fixtures on Tuesday
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Tottenham Hotspur vs Villarreal
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Benfica vs Qarabag (Azerbaijan)
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PSV Eindhoven vs Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium)
