Get to Know September 30 UEFA Champions League's Highlights & Results

The Champions League returned on Tuesday, September 30, with a night that had it all: underdog resilience, heavyweight dominance, narrow escapes, and shocks that rattled Europe’s giants. From Istanbul’s intensity to Madrid’s flair, Matchday 2 delivered football at its most unpredictable.

Galatasaray Stun Liverpool in Istanbul

The biggest shock came at RAMS Park, where Galatasaray held their ground in a 1-0 victory over Liverpool. 

Victor Osimhen’s penalty in the 16th minute was enough, but the drama peaked late: Liverpool thought they had won a spot-kick, only for VAR to overturn the decision.

Galatasaray’s disciplined defense kept Jürgen Klopp’s side at bay, plunging Liverpool’s European campaign into early jeopardy.

Griezmann’s Milestone as Atlético Crush Frankfurt

In Madrid, Atlético Madrid produced a 5-1 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt. Antoine Griezmann’s 200th goal for the club headlined the night, while Giacomo Raspadori, Giuliano Simeone, and Julian Álvarez also found the net. 

For Diego Simeone’s side, missing their coach on the touchline due to suspension, it was more than a win, it was a statement of intent.

Atalanta’s Late Fightback Against Brugge

Bergamo witnessed another dramatic turnaround as Atalanta came from behind to beat Club Brugge 2-1. 

Christos Tzolis had given the visitors hope, but a Lazar Samardžić penalty and a Mario Pašalić header in the closing stages sealed Atalanta’s first points of the campaign.

Real Madrid’s Ruthless Display in Kazakhstan

Meanwhile, Real Madrid showed their ruthless edge with a 5-0 thrashing of Kairat Almaty. Kylian Mbappé was electric, netting a hat-trick, while Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Díaz added gloss to a performance that underlined Madrid’s status as early favorites.

Chelsea Edge Benfica in Nervy Encounter

At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea claimed a tight 1-0 win over Benfica, decided by an unfortunate own goal from Richard Ríos. The Blues survived late Benfica pressure and even a red card to João Pedro, but questions remain over their cutting edge in attack.

Inter Too Strong for Slavia Praha

In Milan, Inter kept their campaign on track with a controlled 3-0 victory. Lautaro Martínez struck twice, and Denzel Dumfries added a third, continuing Inter’s strong start and reinforcing their reputation as one of the most balanced sides in the competition.

Martínez reached a new milestone with Inter Milan to be the first player to score for the black and blue group in seven UEFA Champions League editions.

Spurs Survive Scare in Norway

Tottenham’s trip to the Arctic Circle was anything but routine. Bodø/Glimt surged into a 2-0 lead, powered by their fearless pressing and sharp counterattacks. But Spurs fought back, Richarlison struck before a late own goal gifted them a 2-2 draw. A point gained, but also a warning sign.

Marseille Revive Hopes with Ajax Rout

In France, Marseille reignited their campaign with a thumping 4-0 win over Ajax. Igor Paixão struck twice inside 12 minutes, Mason Greenwood added a third, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang completed the rout. Ajax, bottom of the group, looked shell-shocked as Marseille seized their lifeline.

Bayern Cruise in Cyprus

Finally, Bayern Munich dispatched Pafos 5-1 away from home. Harry Kane bagged a brace, with Raphael Guerreiro, Nicolas Jackson, and Michael Olise also scoring. Bayern’s dominance was total, with Pafos’ late consolation doing little to alter the tone of a one-sided contest.