The Champions League is back, with AC Milan heading to Madrid for one of the most challenging and iconic fixtures in Europe. At the new and futuristic Santiago Bernabeu, the Rossoneri will face a wounded Real Madrid, reeling from a shocking 4-0 home defeat to Barcelona in the Clasico on October 26 and further delayed in La Liga due to a postponed match against Valencia. Although the match seems daunting on paper, Fonseca is prepared to play all his cards, starting key players Rafa Leao and Theo Hernandez, alongside Pulisic and the consistently impressive Reijnders, to lead Milan in the quest for a breakthrough at one of the toughest stadiums.
Juventus also faces a tricky away match against Lille, where Real Madrid recently fell to Ancelotti’s side. Under Bruno Genesio, who succeeded Fonseca, Lille relies on stars like Zhegrova and David while showcasing newfound defensive solidity and team balance. These qualities have kept the French side near the top of Ligue 1 and competitive in the Champions League, with six points from their first three games, including impressive clean-sheet victories over both Real and Atletico Madrid following an opening loss away at Sporting Lisbon.
Elsewhere in today’s Champions League lineup, the clash between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen at Anfield promises an exciting encounter. Coaches Arne Slot and Xabi Alonso represent a new wave of European football that combines attacking flair with quick counterattacks on ball recovery. Fans can expect a fast-paced, open match from both teams.
