Drama at Anfield, Stalemate in Madrid: Group of Death kicks off with surprise result

The second day of the Matchday 1 of the 2021/22 UEFA Champions League season saw the opening clashes of the Group of Death, Group B. 2019 UCL Champions, Liverpool welcomed AC Milan to the Anfield Stadium and back to the Champions League after a 7-year absence. While Spanish Champions, Atletico Madrid played host to FC Porto at the Wanda Metropolitano in an exciting match. Both visiting teams were looking to pick up some precious points, being the default underdogs and the two more likely teams to exit at the group stages. 

In a repeat of the legendary 2005 Istanbul final, AC Milan squared off against Liverpool but this time as the underdogs. But just like in 2005, Liverpool fought from going behind to winning the match. Despite opening the scoring in the 9th minute through a Fikayo Tomori Own goal, Liverpool fell behind to a quick-fire brace from Ante Rebic and Brahim Diaz in the 42nd and 44th minute. However, Mohamed Salah levelled the scores shortly after the half-time break with a 49th-minute finish before Jordan Henderson completed the comeback in the 69th minute. 

At the Wanda Metropolitano, FC Porto visited Atletico Madrid, hoping to pick up points from one of the most difficult stadiums in Europe. The Portuguese club side is not new to punching above their weight and stuck to their game plan at Atletico's home. This saw them pick up a valuable away point, which might be the difference between going to the Europa League and dropping out of Europe totally. Antoine Griezmann also made his second return to the club but got mixed reactions from the crowd. 

By and large, the acclaimed Group of Death has started on a steady note with Liverpool leading the table with a small margin of 2 points and 1 goal. On Matchday 2, Liverpool will travel to Porto while the San Siro will host Champions League football again as Milan welcome Atletico Madrid. The main attraction will be on Matchday 3 & 4 when Liverpool and Atletico Madrid will fight for group leadership in the double-legged fixture.