The UEFA Champions League knockout stage never fails to deliver—thrilling goals, tense battles, and unpredictable twists that keep fans glued to their screens. The first-leg playoff matches were no different, with giants like Bayern Munich and AC Milan facing intense challenges, while controversy and late drama added spice to the round. Here’s a deep dive into the biggest talking points from this week’s action.

Bayern Munich Survive a Scare at Celtic Park

Celtic Park was rocking, and for a moment, it felt like the Scottish underdogs could pull off something special. But Bayern Munich’s quality ultimately shone through as they edged out a 2-1 victory. Michael Olise broke the deadlock just before halftime with a brilliant strike, and Harry Kane doubled Bayern’s lead with a clinical volley.

Celtic, however, refused to go down without a fight. Daizen Maeda’s late header reignited belief, and Brendan Rodgers’ side pushed hard for an equalizer in the final moments. Though they fell short, Rodgers praised his team’s fighting spirit and hinted that the tie is far from over as they prepare for the return leg in Munich.

AC Milan Falter as Feyenoord Take Control

AC Milan’s night in Rotterdam was one to forget. An early goal from Igor Paixão proved to be the difference, as the Italian side struggled to break down a disciplined Feyenoord defense. Milan’s attacking efforts lacked conviction, leaving them with plenty of work to do at the San Siro if they hope to turn this tie around.

Benfica Edge Monaco, but Di María’s Injury Raises Concerns

Benfica took a huge step toward qualification with a narrow 1-0 win against Monaco, thanks to another crucial goal from Vangelis Pavlidis. But the victory came at a cost—Angel Di María limped off late in the game, casting doubt over his availability for the second leg.

Monaco’s challenge became even tougher after midfielder Al-Musrati was sent off for dissent, leaving them a man down in the closing stages. With the return leg in Lisbon looming, they’ll need to find a way to break down a resilient Benfica defense while hoping for a miracle comeback.

Late Penalty Sparks Controversy in Club Brugge vs. Atalanta

The most dramatic game of the round came in Belgium, where Club Brugge secured a controversial 2-1 win over Atalanta. A late penalty decision, deemed soft by many, left Atalanta furious. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini didn’t hold back, blasting the referees and calling out what he sees as a growing problem in football—players exaggerating contact to win penalties.

Atalanta midfielder Charles De Ketelaere echoed his manager’s frustration but kept his focus on the second leg, where the Italian side will be desperate to overturn the deficit in front of their home crowd.

Second Leg Showdowns: Can the Underdogs Fight Back?

With the second legs approaching, the tension is set to rise. Can Celtic pull off a shock in Munich? Will AC Milan rediscover their attacking form at home? Can Monaco overcome the odds against Benfica? And will Atalanta get their revenge on Club Brugge?

The road to the Round of 16 is heating up, and if the first legs were anything to go by, we’re in for another round of unforgettable Champions League drama.