The UEFA Champions League 2025/26 is heating up, and some teams are already making waves while others are left scrambling. As Matchday 4 kicked off, we witnessed a series of thrilling encounters that showcased the tournament's intensity and unpredictability. But here's where it gets controversial: while some clubs are dominating, others are struggling to find their footing, leaving fans and pundits alike divided over their prospects.
Arsenal and Bayern München continued their flawless campaigns, securing their fourth consecutive wins in the group stage. Arsenal's victory over Slavia Praha was particularly noteworthy, as Mikel Merino emerged as the hero with a brace, and Max Dowman etched his name in history as the youngest player to feature in the Champions League. The Gunners' 3-0 win not only maintained their perfect record but also extended their clean sheet streak to eight games across all competitions, equaling a club record set over a century ago. And this is the part most people miss: Slavia Praha's struggles highlight the growing gap between Europe's elite and the rest.
Bayern München, on the other hand, claimed a statement win at Parc des Princes, handing Paris Saint-Germain their first defeat of the season. Luis Díaz's brace was overshadowed by his late dismissal, but Manuel Neuer's heroics between the sticks ensured Bayern held on for a crucial 2-1 victory. This result not only maintained their 100% record but also sent a clear message to their title rivals. However, the question remains: can Bayern sustain this level of performance throughout the tournament?
Liverpool's 1-0 triumph over Real Madrid was another highlight, with Alexis Mac Allister's powerful header proving decisive. The Reds' victory avenged their 2022 final loss to Los Blancos, but it also sparked debates about Real Madrid's declining dominance in Europe. Are the Spanish giants still the force they once were, or is their era coming to an end?
Elsewhere, Monaco secured their first win of the season, narrowly defeating Bodø/Glimt in Norway, while Tottenham maintained their unbeaten run with a dominant 4-0 display against Copenhagen, despite Brennan Johnson's red card. Atlético de Madrid bounced back from recent setbacks, overcoming a stubborn Union Saint-Gilloise side, and Juventus earned a hard-fought point against Sporting CP in Luciano Spalletti's first home game in charge.
As the group stage progresses, the race for knockout stage qualification is intensifying. With several teams still in contention, the upcoming fixtures promise more drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. But here's a thought-provoking question for you: with the increasing financial disparities between clubs, is the Champions League becoming a competition exclusively for the super-rich, or can smaller teams still dream of glory? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's spark a debate!
