“The Premier League,” regarded as the world’s top league, bowed its head on the European stage.
English Premier League teams endured a difficult start to the UEFA Champions League round of 16, with none of the country’s clubs managing a victory in the first-leg matches.
The disappointing run came despite the Premier League sending a record six clubs into the knockout stage, raising hopes of strong English representation deep in the competition.
Among the most striking results was Tottenham Hotspur’s 5–2 defeat to Atlético Madrid, a match in which the Spanish side capitalised on defensive mistakes to build a commanding advantage ahead of the second leg.
Elsewhere, Liverpool fell 1–0 away to Galatasaray, with Mario Lemina scoring the decisive goal early in the match. Despite the setback, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk remained hopeful about overturning the deficit at Anfield.
Arsenal were among the few English teams to avoid defeat, drawing 1–1 with Bayer Leverkusen after Kai Havertz converted a late penalty against his former club. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted his side struggled during parts of the game but said the result left the tie open.
Newcastle United also settled for a draw against Barcelona in their first-leg clash, keeping their hopes alive heading into the return fixture.
The results mean all English teams face crucial second-leg matches if they hope to progress to the quarter-finals.
With the return legs approaching, Premier League sides will look to regroup quickly as they attempt to revive England’s challenge for the Champions League title.
