Two wins, two draws and one team already qualified. This was the final outcome for Italian clubs following Matchday 4 of the Champions League Group Stage.
Juventus maintained their perfect record in the competition and sealed their place in the round of 16. Inter were also on the winning column, while Atalanta and Milan had to settle for draws.
So here are the Top 5 Stories from European football’s elite club competition, while focusing primarily on Serie A representatives.
European Juventus, a Different Beast
Anyone who noticed the Bianconeri’s abysmal domestic form would expect them struggle on the European stage. And yet, Juventus have already sealed their qualification to the knockout stage on the back of their fourth win in as many matches.
Massimiliano Allegri’s men put up their finest performance of the season when they hosted Zenit in Turin, with Paulo Dybala in particular showcasing an exquisite form.
However, the Old Lady’s supporters were left to wonder whether has truly turned the page following the latest domestic woes against Italian opposition, or if this kind of brilliant performances will remain exclusive to Champions League football.
CR7 Territory
Well, he did it again. Last time around, we mentioned how Manchester United’s come-from-behind win highlighted Atalanta’s last of experience on the European stage.
But this time, we must give credit were credit is due. the Champions League is Cristiano Ronaldo’s playground, as the Portuguese once again proved that he’s phenomenal player at the expense of the Italian club.
La Dea took lead twice, but CR7 managed to drag his team back with two goal at the end of each half, as it ended 2-2 in Bergamo.
This means that Atalanta have dropped five points in two matches against the Red Devils despite being in the lead for the majority of time… and it’s mostly because of one extraordinary star.
Cristiano Ronaldo means Champions League, Champions League means Cristiano Ronaldo. Again and again. ? #UCL
…and also helping Solskjær to avoid another week under enormous pressure before Manchester derby. pic.twitter.com/rvDTsym9jl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 2, 2021
Not This Year
It’s not official yet, but the writing is on the wall – Milan have no business competing in the Champions League this season.
It’s true that the Rossoneri were pitted in the toughest group of the competition and suffered from back luck on some occasions, but the team appears to be mentally out of it.
When hosting Porto, Stefano Pioli’s men needed to garner three points to remain in the conversation, but they failed to show a sense of urgency as the match ended 1-1.
The Diavolo will now retreat to their domestic base, focus on winning the Scudetto title, and leave their European dreams for the time being.
The Return of the Reds
Since taking charge at the club in October in 2015, Liverpool have been on a steady rise under the smooth guidance of Jurgen Klopp.
However, following an underwhelming 2020/21 season, some believed that the German’s cycle at Merseyside had reached a natural end.
Nonetheless, we must remember that the Reds suffered from an astonishing injury crisis that saw their entire backline out for an extended period, which completely unbalanced the team.
But this season, the EPL giants are picking up where they left off a year ago, reminding everyone that they they remain one of the best terrifying sides in the world, and topping the toughest Champions League group with a perfect record is only the beginning.
Significant Win
The Italian champions beating their Moldovan counterparts in a Champions League fixture is rarely considered to be a prideworthy achievement.
But based on Inter’s track record in the competition in the last few years, not a single encounter can be taken for granted – especially following Sheriff’s exhilarating start to the campaign.
Simone Inzgahi’s men now sit second with 7 points – two behind Real Madrid and one ahead of Sheriff.
The Nerazzurri are yet to seal their qualification, but picking up points against lowly opposition is considered to be a step in the right direction.
Sheriff vs Inter 1-3: Italian Champions Earn Precious Away Victory https://t.co/yaFxZVs0tm pic.twitter.com/n4Km5i4MbN
— The Cult of Calcio (@cultofcalcio) November 4, 2021