Champions League Round-Up: Thrilling Draws, Stunning Upsets Headline Opening Fixtures

The first matchday of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League didn't disappoint, with goals galore from all around Europe.

The situation looked grim for Real Madrid against Marseille after a straight red card to right back Dani Carvajal, who had come on as a substitute after Trent Alexander-Arnold exited because of an injury, and a goal from United States international Timothy Weah. But Kylian Mbappe's second penalty in the 81st minute sent the Spanish club through, although Madrid coach Xabi Alonso will surely hope his team will be more clinical next time out.

Meanwhile, the match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund devolved into beautiful chaos, as the teams combined for eight goals in the second half - tying the most ever scored in a Champions League half, according to ESPN Research. It was only fitting that the final scoreline would read 4-4 after such a thrilling contest.

The most surprising result was perhaps Qarabag's 3-2 victory over hosts Benfica, coming back from a two-goal deficit. And Tottenham Hotspur hung on to their early 1-0 lead and defeated Villarreal.

Here's how all of Tuesday's action unfolded.