Despite the painfully protracted league phase running through the first five months of the season and the play-off round providing some drama, for many the Champions League doesn't truly begin until the last 16 gets underway. And after a wild week of first legs around Europe, the picture when it comes to potential winners of the tournament has been shaken up massively.
Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand blasted the controversial late penalty that allowed Arsenal to escape with a 1-1 draw in their Champions League round of 16 first leg. While the Dane praised his side's disciplined display against the Gunners at the BayArena, he expressed disbelief over the officiating, describing the last-minute setback as a bitter pill to swallow in the tie's opening game.
Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration after Arsenal were beaten at their own game during a 1-1 Champions League draw with Bayer Leverkusen. The manager lamented his team's lack of urgency and attention as they conceded from a set-piece, a tactic the Gunners usually dominate. However, a late Kai Havertz penalty ensured the last-16 tie remains finely balanced ahead of the return leg.
Kai Havertz proved to be the protagonist on his emotional return to the BayArena, converting a late, controversial penalty to rescue a 1-1 draw for Arsenal against Bayer Leverkusen. The German international came off the bench to deny his former side a famous victory in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie. While he stepped up to secure the result, Havertz admitted feeling a sense of sorrow for his former teammates after his decisive strike.
Arsenal winger Noni Madueke has revealed that pure instinct guided his crucial penalty-winning run in the Champions League round of 16 first leg. After securing a vital 1-1 draw away at Bayer Leverkusen, the dynamic substitute is deeply confident that a roaring Emirates Stadium crowd will push Mikel Arteta’s squad towards the quarter-finals when the two sides meet again next week.
Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.
Famous players
Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.
Honours
Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managers
Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.
Stadium
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.
Location
Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.
Owners
In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.
Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.
Frequently asked questions
When were Mamelodi Sundowns formed?
A young group of players who lived around Marabastad in Pretoria, most notably Frank Motsepe, Roy Fischer, Ingle Singh and Bernard Hartze, formed the club in the 1960s.
Who are the owners of Mamelodi Sundowns?
Mining magnate Patrice Motsepe bought into Sundowns in 2003 and less than a year later raised his stake from 51% to 100% and renamed the club 'Mamelodi' Sundowns.
What is Mamelodi Sundowns stadium called?
The club play home games at either Loftus Versfeld Stadium in central Pretoria, or Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.
What are Mamelodi Sundowns nicknames?
The club have a variety of nicknames, including: Bafana ba Style, Masandawana, Ka bo Yellow, Shoe Shine and Piano, and The Brazilians.
How many trophies have Mamelodi Sundowns won?
31 domestic trophies plus one Caf Champions League (2016), one Caf Super Cup (2017) and the African Football League (2023)
How many times have Mamelodi Sundowns won the league?
The club have won a total of 17 league titles under the auspices of the PSL (14) and NSL (3).
Who has made the most appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns?