Sport
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European club football, players and the stories behind the results.
Lamine Yamal said he would not campaign for 2026 Ballon d'Or votes, preferring his achievements to speak for him. His decorated season gives him a strong case, but journalists' ballots will decide the outcome.
Ryan Giggs recalled asking Elliot Anderson not to join Manchester City during a round of golf. Anderson moved to City in June after Manchester United faced budget limits in the competition for his signature.
Erling Haaland's double against Porto took him to 36 Champions League goals for Manchester City, level with Sergio Aguero's record. He reached the mark in 40 appearances, 24 fewer than his predecessor.
Ethan Mbappe assisted Lille's opener but was sent off in the 56th minute after an off-the-ball incident. Lille lost 2-3 to Real Betis, leaving seven league-phase matches to repair a difficult start.
Jose Mourinho argued that Real Madrid's pressing helped force Inter's errors in a 2-1 win, after Raul Gonzalez focused on their poor buildup. He also called for Madrid to finish chances more efficiently.
Erling Haaland scored twice after half-time as Manchester City beat Porto 2-0 in their Champions League opener. City had 64% possession and ended Porto's 33-match unbeaten home run.
Kylian Mbappe said winning the Champions League with Real Madrid matters more than the Ballon d'Or race. He scored against Inter in a 2-1 victory, but must still turn individual form into collective success.
Real Madrid beat Inter 2-1 through goals from Mbappe and Valverde but relied on Courtois as pressure mounted. Inter had more shots, while mistakes in possession allowed the hosts to build their lead.
UEFA's technical review of the 2025-2026 Champions League final devoted four of five themes to Arsenal's penalty-area defence. The analysis emphasised positioning, wide support and fundamental defensive skills.
Real Madrid spent more than two minutes with ten players while Alvaro Carreras waited to enter after Vinicius left slowly. Courtois then made key saves as Madrid held on for a 2-1 win over Inter.
