SUPER TEN FROM EUROPEAN FOOTBALL THIS WEEK (Game Week 35)
Harry laughs last as the long-awaited trophy drought is officially over. Three games more till the end of the season with consolidation and a race down to the wire in France, Spain, and Italy.
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Harry Kane winning his first club trophy, Barcelona, Inter , Napoli, Real Madrid getting important wins, Arsenal about to end the season trophyless and a fight to the finish in France as the end of the footballing season in Europe approaches.
1. De Bruyne downs Wolves at home
Kevin De Bruyne etched his name further into Manchester City folklore, scoring the decisive goal in a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Etihad Stadium. The Belgian maestro, playing in what could be his penultimate home appearance before his departure, struck in the 35th minute, ending Wolves’ impressive six-game winning streak.
De Bruyne calmly side-footed home a Jeremy Doku cutback, punishing Andre’s costly loss of possession moments earlier. The goal came against the flow of play, as a lively Wolves side, revitalized under Vitor Pereira, had created several clear-cut opportunities. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde missed a simple pass to an unmarked Marshall Munetsi, while Rayan Ait-Nouri saw his shot hit the post before Josko Gvardiol cleared his follow-up off the line.
Wolves continued to threaten after the break, with Matheus Cunha striking the post with a quick effort. However, their attacking impetus waned as the second half progressed.
The win propels Manchester City to third in the Premier League table, now sitting two points ahead of Newcastle United and further distancing themselves from Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa in the race for Champions League qualification. For Wolves, their first defeat since February leaves them in 13th position.
2. Bournemouth stun Arsenal as Arteta’s season hopes hangs in the balance
Bournemouth mounted a spirited second-half comeback at Emirates Stadium, securing a 2–1 victory over Arsenal and injecting fresh life into their European qualification aspirations. Goals from Dean Huijsen and Evanilson overturned Declan Rice’s first-half opener for the Gunners, leaving Arsenal reeling ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
Arsenal had taken the lead in the 34th minute, with Rice finishing neatly after a subtle pass from Martin Odegaard. However, despite opportunities for Evanilson in the first half, Bournemouth emerged a different side after the break.
The visitors drew level in the 67th minute when Huijsen headed home emphatically from a long throw-in by substitute Antoine Semenyo, silencing the home support. Just eight minutes later, Evanilson completed the turnaround, reacting quickest to flick-on from Marcus Tavernier following an Alex Scott corner. A VAR check for handball against the Bournemouth striker proved unsuccessful, and the goal stood.
The unexpected defeat sees Arsenal’s grip on second place loosen, as they now sit just three points ahead of Manchester City. For Bournemouth, the impressive win propels them to eighth in the table, two points clear of Fulham.
3. Barcelona stay four points clear as Madrid lurk behind
Barcelona maintained their lead at the top of LaLiga to a four points on Saturday, securing a 2–1 comeback victory against relegated Real Valladolid.
In a match where coach Hansi Flick rotated his squad significantly ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter, only Pedri remained from the usual starting eleven.
The game also saw the welcomed return of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who made his first appearance since September after recovering from an ACL injury.
Despite their confirmed relegation, Valladolid stunned the visitors early on. Just six minutes in, Ivan Sanchez capitalized on a Raul Moro through pass with his deflected cross opening the scoring.
However, the Catalan giants emerged with renewed vigor after the break. Nine minutes into the second half, Raphinha equalised with a well-struck half-volley, pouncing after Valladolid keeper Andre Ferreira parried Lamine Yamal’s cross. The comeback was swift as just six minutes later, Gerard Martin teed up Fermin Lopez on the edge of the box, who calmly slotted home to give Barcelona the lead.
Valladolid pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, but Ter Stegen proved his fitness and elegance with a crucial late save from Juanmi Latasa. With this win, Barcelona now sit on 79 points, four clear of Real Madrid.
They now shift their focus to their Champions League challenge, traveling to face Inter Milan at the San Siro after a thrilling 3–3 draw in last week’s first leg.
Kylian Mbappé was the undisputed man of the match as his brace gave Real Madrid to a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Celta Vigo in a captivating LaLiga contest. The French superstar showcased his blistering pace and clinical finishing, ensuring Los Blancos remain firmly in the title race, just four points adrift of league leaders Barcelona with four crucial matchdays remaining.
The Santiago Bernabeu witnessed a tactical masterclass from Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who drew first blood in the 33rd minute through a moment of brilliance. A clever short corner routine allowed Arda Guler to curl a stunning shot into the top corner reminding everyone of his immense quality
Mbappé then took center stage, doubling Madrid’s advantage just six minutes later latching onto a pinpoint pass from Jude Bellingham before unleashing an exquisite finish past Vicente Guaita. The dynamic duo of Bellingham and Mbappé continues to show how potent they are as an attacking force for the Spanish giants.
The second half saw Mbappé get his double just three minutes after the restart. Displaying his lightning speed, he raced onto a defense-splitting pass from Guler and coolly slotted a left-footed shot home, putting the game beyond Celta Vigo.
However, the visitors showed true grit and determination, pulling one back in the 69th minute when Javi Rodriguez finished from close range after a clever flick from a corner caused chaos in the Madrid box.
Tension mounted further when substitute Williot Swedberg capped off a fine passing move with a smart finish, setting up a nervy final few minutes for the home faithful.
Celta Vigo almost snatched an unlikely equalizer when Pablo Duran’s shot was saved by a resilient Thibaut Courtois but in the end, Real Madrid held firm, securing vital three points in their pursuit of a LaLiga title defense as Madrid are putting pressure on Barcelona in a league campaign that would go down to the wire.
4. Chelsea beat champions Liverpool as UCL race remains a possibility
Chelsea defeated reigning champions Liverpool, in a thrilling 3–1 victory at Stamford Bridge boosting their quest for a Champions League spot. Enzo Maresca’s tactical masterclass saw his Blues squad dominate large stretches of the contest, consolidating their position within the Premier League’s top five.
The Stamford Bridge faithful were sent into raptures early on, as midfield maestro Enzo Fernandez slotted home a clinical finish in just the third minute, expertly controlling a dangerous low cross from Pedro Neto before beating Alisson in goal.
Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 58th minute, albeit with a slice of luck. A defensive mix-up saw Virgil van Dijk’s attempted clearance deflect off teammate Jarrell Quansah into the back of the net for an own goal.
Liverpool, known for their fighting spirit, offered a glimmer of hope with just five minutes remaining on the clock. Skipper Virgil van Dijk rose highest to powerfully head home from an Alexis Mac Allister corner, setting up a tense grand finale.
However, Chelsea extinguished any hopes of a Liverpool comeback with the very last kick of the game. Cole Palmer coolly slotted home from the penalty spot after Quansah brought down Moises Caicedo in the box, sealing a memorable victory and sending the Chelsea supporters into ecstasy.
This crucial win sees Chelsea gain vital ground in the race for Champions League qualification, with Nottingham three points behind.
5. Bees Stun Red Devils in Seven-Goal Thriller
Brentford delivered a sensational home performance, in a thrilling 4–3 victory over Manchester United in a Premier League goalfest that ignited their European ambitions.
German sensation Kevin Schade bagged a brace sending shockwaves through the Red Devils’ defense in the seven goal thriller.
Yoane Wissa also found the net for Thomas Frank’s high-flying side, who secured their third consecutive win in a captivating encounter at the Gtech Community Stadium. Despite a late flurry of goals from Manchester United, including a stunning long-range strike from Alejandro Garnacho and a stoppage-time tap-in by Amad Diallo, Brentford held firm to clinch the three points.
Mason Mount opened the scoring for the visitors, only for a Luke Shaw own-goal to draw United level. Schade then rose highest to head Brentford into the lead before the break. The German international continued his goal-scoring exploits in the second half, nodding home his second of the match. Michael Kayode then turned provider, setting up Wissa for a simple finish to extend Brentford’s advantage.
However, the drama wasn’t over. Garnacho’s spectacular strike ignited a late United charge, and Diallo’s late goal set up a nervy finish. But the Bees held on, showcasing their resilience and determination.
This electrifying victory propels Brentford up to 10th on the Premier League charts, leapfrogging Manchester United, who remain in 15th position.
Also the Bees’ impressive form has fans dreaming of a potential European qualification, while the Red Devils will be left to rue constant defensive disasterclasses that ultimately cost them valuable points.
6. Harry has the last Laugh: Title Twist by Leipzig delays title celebrations as Leverkusen hand Bayern the Bundesliga.
The Bundesliga title race took another dramatic turn this Saturday as RB Leipzig delivered a late sucker punch, snatching a thrilling 3–3 draw against champions-elect Bayern Munich.
Just when the Bavarian giants and top goalscorer Harry Knne thought they had clinched the league trophy, Yussuf Poulsen’s stoppage-time equaliser sent shockwaves through the Allianz Arena delaying the Bundesliga title win
The game exploded into life early on. Benjamin Sesko’s delicate lob put Leipzig in the lead, and Lukas Klostermann doubled their advantage before the break. However, Bayern showed their fighting spirit in the second half. Michael Olise set up Eric Dier from a corner before a quickfire exchange with Serge Gnabry saw him slot home the equaliser.
The home crowd erupted when Leroy Sane fired Bayern into the lead with just seven minutes left on the clock, seemingly sealing their Bundesliga triumph. But Leipzig had other ideas. In the dying moments, Xavi Simons found space and teed up Poulsen, who coolly chipped the ball over Bayern keeper Urbig to level the score in a breathtaking finish.
This late drama means Bayern’s title celebrations are on hold. Vincent Kompany’s side will now be glued to their screens on Sunday, hoping Bayer Leverkusen slip up against Freiburg and just as fate had predicted Freiburg and Leverkusen played out a 2–2 draw that ultimately hands Bayern the Bundesliga and the Englishman Harry Kane who has been the butt of internet jokes and banter for his renowned goalscoring but empty trophy haul. The trophy win will be a big relief to him as he would look to add more hopefully with his fantastic scoring abilities for the Bavarian giants.
For Leverkusen, the rumours of Xabi Alonso is on everyone’s lips with Carlo Ancellotti’s potential exit a huge possibility at the end of the season.
7. Inter Milan and Napoli earn vital win as Title goes down to the wire
Inter Milan showed their Scudetto mettle, securing a hard-fought 1–0 victory against Hellas Verona at the San Siro. A coolly taken penalty by Kristjan Asllani proved the difference for a much-rotated Nerazzurri squad, with one eye on their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg cracker against Barcelona.
Despite making a massive ten changes from their thrilling 3–3 draw in Catalonia, Inter started strong. An early VAR-awarded handball against Verona allowed Asllani to slot home from the spot, settling any early nerves for the home faithful.
However, the tempo dropped as the game wore on, with clear-cut chances becoming scarce after Nicola Zalewski’s long-range effort grazed the roof of the net.
The second half became a midfield battleground, with Verona unable to capitalize and put further distance between themselves and the relegation zone.
Earlier in the day, Napoli had piled on the pressure with a victory over Lecce, meaning the top two remain at each others throat, separated by just three points with only three matches left in the Serie A campaign. The tantalizing prospect of a title-deciding play-off looms large if the two giants finish level on points.
For Verona, thi defeat leaves them in 15th place,six points clear of the dreaded drop zone and knowing every point will be crucial in the final stretch of the season. Inter, meanwhile, will take the winning momentum into their crucial European showdown, knowing their domestic ambitions remain firmly within reach and may go down to the wire.
8. Rome and Dortmund’s miraculous turnaround
In a nail-biting Serie A showdown that had all the hallmarks of a European qualification decider, AS Roma dug deep to secure a crucial 1–0 victory against a resilient Fiorentina side. With just a single point separating the teams before kickoff, and Juventus lurking just behind, this match was always destined to be a pivotal moment in the race for those coveted Champions League spots.
The passionate Roma faithful, the Giallorossi army, roared their team on from the first whistle, injecting energy both on and off the pitch. However, Fiorentina proved to be a tough nut to crack in the early exchanges.
Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini saw his efforts blocked, first by an unfortunate deflection off teammate Eldor Shomurodov and then by a wayward shot.
Fiorentina then shifted gears, creating two golden opportunities for Moise Kean. But Roma’s in-form goalkeeper, Mile Svilar, stood tall like an impenetrable defensive wall, twice denying the striker with sharp reflexes and brave anticipation.
At the other end, Fiorentina’s shot-stopper, David de Gea, showcased his brilliance with impressive saves to deny Zeki Celik and Shomurodov.
However, just when it seemed the first half would end in a stalemate, Roma struck a decisive blow in the dying moments of added time. Angelino whipped in a dangerous cross, and Shomurodov rose highest to head the ball across the face of goal for Dovbyk to nod home the opener — a true goalmouth scramble winner!
The second half saw Fiorentina come out with renewed vigour, desperate to claw their way back into the contest. Svilar was called into action again early on, demonstrating his agility with a fine save from Manu Kone’s long-range strike. La Viola continued to press, with Amir Richardson firing wide and Nicolo Zaniolo and Fabiano Parisi both shooting over the bar.
Svilar continued his stellar performance, showcasing his shot-stopping prowess with a crucial save from Rolando Mandragora’s powerful effort. Late in the game, he once again denied Kean, before bravely diving at his feet to collect the ball and secure a vital clean sheet.
This hard-fought victory marks Roma’s nineteenth consecutive Serie A match unbeaten, propelling them, at least temporarily, into the coveted fourth Champions League spot.
The remarkable turnaround under Claudio Ranieri this season has been nothing short of a tactical masterclass. Since taking the reins, Ranieri has instilled a newfound resilience and tactical discipline in the Giallorossi. His astute substitutions, tactical tweaks, and ability to galvanize the squad have transformed Roma from European hopefuls into genuine Champions League contenders. The Ranieri effect is undeniable, and the Roma faithful will be dreaming of a return to Europe’s elite competition.
For Fiorentina, this is a setback, their second consecutive defeat in four days. However, they have a swift opportunity to bounce back as they host Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday.
In similar fashion, Borussia Dortmund delivered a knockout blow to Wolfsburg, securing a resounding 4–0 victory that significantly boosts their chances of securing a coveted Champions League spot.
After a turbulent season, the Black and Yellows are hitting their stride at the business end, racking up their fifth Bundesliga win in the last six matches. This late surge has propelled them into fourth place with just two games remaining, setting up a thrilling finale to the campaign.
The dynamic duo of Serhou Guirassy and Karim Adeyemi were the architects of this emphatic win at the Signal Iduna Park. Guirassy opened the scoring early, capitalizing on defensive errors to slot home within the first three minutes. He then added a second with a clinical finish, capping off a fluid team move just before the hour mark.
Substitute Adeyemi then stole the spotlight with a sensational cameo. Just two minutes after stepping onto the pitch, he embarked on a breathtaking 35-meter solo run, leaving defenders in his wake before unleashing an unstoppable shot. He quickly followed up with a carbon-copy effort, adding further gloss to a dominant performance.
This remarkable turnaround has been largely orchestrated by manager Niko Kovac. Despite facing early scrutiny, Kovac has seemingly found the winning formula, guiding Dortmund through a remarkable comeback. His tactical masterclass and the team’s newfound attacking prowess have ignited hope among the Dortmund faithful.
Now tied on points with fifth-placed Freiburg, Dortmund will be keeping a close eye on Bayer Leverkusen’s result on Sunday, hoping for a slip-up that could further solidify their Champions League aspirations. The end of the season is fast approaching, and Dortmund, under Kovac’s guidance, are showing they have the fighting spirit to cross the finish line in a Champions League qualifying position.
9. De Ketelaere Double Demolishes Monza as Atalanta Clinch Champions League Spot with the last spot up for grabs.
Monza’s Serie A dream has been ruthlessly extinguished by a clinical Atalanta side, who stormed to a resounding 4–0 victory on Sunday. A brace from Charles De Ketelaere spearheaded the away side’s attack, sealing Monza’s fate and solidifying Atalanta’s grip on a coveted Champions League spot.
The Belgian attacker, De Ketelaere, was in inspired form, bagging two goals in the first 23 minutes. His first was a moment of pure individual brilliance, as he glided past two Monza defenders before coolly slotting the ball home. His second came courtesy of a defensive blunder from the home side, which he gratefully pounced upon.
Any hopes of a Monza comeback were swiftly quashed just after the interval when Ademola Lookman added Atalanta’s third. The winger shook off his marker before unleashing a precise left-footed finish. Monza’s misery was compounded late on when substitute Omari Forson’s powerful diving header was spectacularly kept out by Atalanta’s shot-stopper, Marco Carnesecchi.
Marco Brescianini rubbed further salt into Monza’s wounds with a fourth goal just two minutes from time, condemning the home side to Serie B. They now sit rock bottom, a massive 12 points adrift of safety with only a handful of games remaining.
Meanwhile, Atalanta’s dominant performance puts them firmly in the driving seat for third place in Serie A, boasting a healthy 68 points with three matches left. Lazio currently occupy fourth with 63 points, while Juventus sit fifth with 62, leaving them playing catch-up in the race for Champions League qualification that is between the Old Lady and Bologna who played out a stalemate as Khepren Thuram and Remo Freuler scored to share the spoils.
10. Every point counts in Ligue 1 as six sides eye UCL Spots
The race for the coveted UEFA Champions League spots in Ligue 1 2024/2025 is reaching a fever pitch, with a thrilling battle unfolding among several top teams. While Paris Saint-Germain have already clinched the league title, the remaining Champions League berths are fiercely contested.
Marseille, Monaco, Nice, Lille, Strasbourg, and Lyon are all vying for a place in Europe’s most prestigious club competition. Just a few points separate these teams, setting the stage for a dramatic final stretch of the season.
Marseille and Monaco currently occupy the second and third positions, respectively, putting them in a strong position to secure direct qualification to the Champions League group stage. However, Nice and Lille are breathing down their necks, eager to snatch a top-three finish.
Strasbourg and Lyon, while slightly further behind, are still within striking distance and will be looking to capitalize on any slip-ups from the teams above them and their recent form suggests they have the momentum to mount a serious challenge.
Each of these teams boasts quality players and tactical prowess, making for captivating encounters week after week. The remaining fixtures promise high-stakes drama, with every match potentially having significant implications for the Champions League qualification race. Football fans across France and beyond will be eagerly following the twists and turns as this enthralling battle unfolds in a season finale of drama.