UCL: Onana Saves, Maguire Scores As Bellingham Stars and the 2 Things We Learned From Tuesday

The UEFA Champions League consistently provides a captivating blend of emotions and gripping results, rendering it an indispensable spectacle for football enthusiasts worldwide.

The recent Tuesday fixtures undoubtedly upheld this captivating tradition, as prominent clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich secured crucial victories.

In the latest Sports Brief analysis, we delve into five essential insights gleaned from the day's contests, underscoring the intense excitement as we reach the midway point of the 2023/2024 group stage.

5. Bayern Munich are invincible in group stages

After enduring relentless pressure from Galatasaray for over 70 minutes, Bayern Munich demonstrated their resilience by scoring two goals, ultimately securing a 3-1 triumph on Tuesday and solidifying their position at the top of their Champions League Group A.

With this victory, Bayern extended their unprecedented winning streak in the Champions League group stage to 16 games, setting a new record, per ESPNFC.

Additionally, the German champions have maintained an unbeaten run of 37 games in the group stage, further highlighting their dominance in the competition.

Sitting comfortably atop their group with nine points, Bayern Munich continues to showcase their prowess in the tournament, with Galatasaray following closely in second place with four points.

4. 'Angel' Gabriel brings Arsenal back to winning ways

Gabriel Jesus put on a stellar display to guide Arsenal back to victory with a 2-1 win against Sevilla following their unexpected setback against RC Lens.

The Brazilian forward orchestrated a seamless collaboration with his compatriot Gabriel Martinelli, resulting in the Gunners breaking the deadlock with a devastating counterattack, as cited by BBC.

Demonstrating his prowess, the former Manchester City striker showcased his exceptional skills by securing another goal, firmly solidifying Arsenal's lead.

However, Sevilla managed to narrow the gap through Nemanja Gudelj, although it served as a mere consolation.

Unfortunately, Jesus was forced off the pitch due to an injury and is set to undergo a scan in the coming days to determine the severity of the issue.

3. Jude Bellingham is the real deal

Jude Bellingham once again demonstrated his clutch abilities for Real Madrid, securing a crucial victory for the Los Blancos in the Champions League with his third consecutive goal of the season.

Despite Sporting Braga providing formidable competition, the Englishman's timely strike solidified Real's triumph. Prior to Bellingham's goal, Brazilian forward Rodrygo broke his goal-scoring drought, which had persisted for 11 games across club and country, by putting Real in the lead within the first 15 minutes.

Bellingham's goal further extended Real's advantage, but Braga's Alvaro Djalo ensured a tense finish with a goal just two minutes later.

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Continuously proving his worth to Carlo Ancelotti, the Golden Boy Award nominee has been instrumental for the team with his decisive goals.

2. Maligned Maguire, the saviour for United

Harry Maguire experienced a dramatic turn of fate at Old Trafford, transitioning from a potential scapegoat to a hero as he scored the decisive header, keeping Manchester United's hopes alive for a spot in the Champions League last-16.

The English defender faced the possibility of departing the club during the summer transfer window following a dip in his defensive standing and the revocation of his captaincy by Erik ten Hag.

Despite facing scrutiny for his performances this season, Maguire demonstrated his capabilities during United's narrow victory against Sheffield United last weekend, maintaining that level of play in the recent Champions League match.

Following the Copenhagen game, Erik ten Hag lauded the centre-back for his commendable display.

1. Andre Onana shuts critics with last-minute save

During his brief tenure at Manchester United, Andre Onana has faced significant criticism, primarily stemming from his goalkeeping errors and, to some extent, his exaggerated reaction to Harry Maguire's mistake during pre-season.

However, in the recent match against FC Copenhagen, the Cameroonian goalkeeper showcased why he enjoys strong support from Erik ten Hag and why, on his best days, he can be one of the most formidable figures between the posts.

Demonstrating his prowess, the former Inter Milan and Ajax shot-stopper delivered a crucial last-minute penalty save, preventing the visitors from securing a point and ensuring a vital victory for the Red Devils.

Onana's heroics in denying Jordan Larsson's penalty in the 97th minute saved Manchester United from potential despair.