English teams wrap up Champions League league phase

On the final day of the new Champions League league phase, English teams delivered a mix of triumphs, drama, and setbacks. Arsenal secured a hard-fought victory in Spain, Manchester City survived a scare against Club Brugge, Aston Villa edged Celtic in a thrilling encounter, while Liverpool’s rotated squad fell to PSV. Here’s a detailed look at their performances:

Arsenal 2-1 Girona: the Gunners finish third in the standings

Arsenal ensured a strong finish to the league phase with a 2-1 victory over Girona in Spain. Despite falling behind in the 27th minute to a goal from Arnaut Danjuma, Arsenal quickly responded. A penalty from Jorginho and a stunning long-range strike by Ethan Nwaneri turned the game around before halftime. The second half saw Girona push for an equalizer, and Cristhian Stuani appeared to have scored in the 77th minute, only for VAR to rule the goal out for offside. Raheem Sterling had a late chance to extend Arsenal’s lead but missed a penalty. Despite that, Arsenal’s third-place finish ensures they advance comfortably to the next round.

Manchester City 3-1 Club Brugge: Guardiola’s side survives a nervous night

Manchester City needed a victory to avoid elimination, and after a shaky first half, they delivered. Club Brugge stunned the Etihad with an early lead through Raphael Onyedika, leaving City on the brink of Champions League elimination. Pep Guardiola responded with attacking changes at halftime, bringing on Savinho for Ilkay Gündogan. The tactical shift paid off quickly as Mateo Kovacic equalized in the 53rd minute. An own goal by Joel Ordóñez and a composed finish from Savinho sealed a vital 3-1 win for City, securing 22nd place in the standings. However, City’s struggles in the league phase mean they now face a tough test in the play-offs, with Real Madrid or Bayern Munich waiting in the next round.

Aston Villa 4-2 Celtic: Rogers’ hat-trick secures play-off spot

Aston Villa and Celtic delivered a pulsating contest at Villa Park, with Morgan Rogers stealing the show with a hat-trick. Villa raced to a 2-0 lead inside 15 minutes, courtesy of Rogers’ early brace. Celtic, however, fought back, scoring twice before halftime through Adam Idah. The second half saw Villa regain control. Ollie Watkins put his side back in front on the hour mark, and despite missing a penalty, he played a crucial role in setting up Rogers’ third goal in stoppage time. The win sees Villa secure their place in the play-offs, while Celtic now faces either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in their knockout tie.

PSV 3-2 Liverpool: Dutch side shocks rotated Liverpool squad

Liverpool, already assured of their place in the next round, opted to rest several key players against PSV. Despite taking an early lead through Cody Gakpo’s penalty, PSV responded with a stunning comeback. Johan Bakayoko and Ismael Saibari found the net before Ricardo Pepi’s first-half strike put PSV ahead 3-2 before the break. Liverpool pushed for an equalizer, but their hopes were dented when youngster Amara Nallo received a red card. Despite the defeat, Arne Slot’s team still advances comfortably, while PSV’s victory ensures they make it into the play-offs.

English teams ready for the knockout stage

The final day of the Champions League league phase was filled with high-stakes drama for English teams. Arsenal’s solid win ensures they progress among the top teams, while Manchester City narrowly escaped elimination and now faces an uphill battle in the play-offs. Aston Villa’s thrilling victory keeps their European hopes alive, whereas Liverpool, despite a loss, remains a contender in the next round. With the draw set for Friday, all eyes will be on which European giants these English clubs will face as the tournament heads into the knockout rounds.