- Whether you call it soccer or football, the game is (almost) always filled with excitement...
The Champions League group stage often delivers some of the most thrilling and unexpected matches in European football. By introducing a new group format, teams will have a chance to play a wider variety of opponents, adding extra unpredictability to Champions League betting after years of the same few teams reaching the final stages.
The group stages give every team a fighting chance, and over the years, there have been some classics in the early weeks of the competition. From underdogs overcoming the odds to goal fests that have entertained fans, the Champions League always delivers.
Here, we run through five of the best group stage matches in the history of the Champions League and why they are so iconic. Read on to find out more.
Manchester United 3-3 Barcelona (1998/99)
The 1998/99 group stage clash between Manchester United and Barcelona at Old Trafford is remembered as one of the most entertaining matches in Champions League history. Both teams played direct, attacking football, and the match lived up to expectations with a thrilling 3-3 draw.
United took the lead twice, only for Barcelona to draw level each time. David Beckham’s stunning free-kick and Rivaldo’s brace, including a spectacular overhead kick, were standout moments, in a game that was littered with quality all over the pitch – from Jap Stam and Roy Keane to Luis Figo and Giovanni.
United would go on to win the Champions League that season after defeating Bayern Munich 2-1 at Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
Liverpool 3-1 Olympiakos (2004/05)
Liverpool have a knack for creating European magic, which is why so many of their group stage matches are remembered fondly. And the Reds’ 3-1 victory over Olympiakos in 2004/05 set the stage for their miraculous run to the title.
It was close between that and their late win over Paris Saint Germain in 2018/19, but the drama and unpredictability of this side just edges out the late Roberto Firmino win from Jurgen Klopp’s eventual champions.
Needing to win by two clear goals to advance, Rafa Benitez and co found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime after Rivaldo’s free-kick.
However, in a thrilling second-half comeback, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor scored to put Liverpool ahead before Steven Gerrard’s stunning late strike sealed the 3-1 victory.
Barcelona 2-3 Rubin Kazan (2009/10)
In one of the biggest upsets in Champions League history, Russian side Rubin Kazan stunned the footballing world by defeating Barcelona on home soil.
Barca, the reigning champions and widely regarded as one of the best club sides of all time, were shocked by a resilient Rubin Kazan side.
The Russians took an early lead and defended resiliently to wave off the Spaniard’s attack. Despite the best efforts of Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovi?, Rubin Kazan secured a famous 3-2 victory, highlighting the unpredictability of the Champions League.
Bayern Munich 2-3 Manchester City (2013/14)
Manchester City’s comeback victory over Bayern Munich in the 2013/14 group stage was a statement of intent from the English side. Bayern, now under Guardiola, were the reigning European champions and heavy favourites, especially after taking a 2-0 lead within the first 12 minutes.
However, City produced a stunning turnaround, with goals from David Silva, Aleksandar Kolarov, and James Milner securing a 3-2 win. This victory not only demonstrated City’s growing stature in Europe but also showcased the unpredictability and excitement that the group stages can bring.
Real Madrid 1-2 Sheriff Tiraspol (2021/22)
Real Madrid would win the 2022 Champions League after a 1-0 victory over Liverpool, but questions were asked of Carlo Ancelotti’s men when Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol defeated them 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu during the group stage.
Sheriff, making their debut in the competition, took a shock lead through Jasurbek Yakhshiboev’s header. Although Real Madrid looked to go on and dominate with a Karim Benzema penalty, Sheriff struck late with a stunning long-range goal from Sébastien Thill to secure a historic victory against the future champions.