The European football world awoke the morning after Matchday 3 of the new-look UEFA Champions League league phase with fresh storylines, surprise results, and early statements of intent.
The standings told their own tale.
Barcelona, fresh from a resounding second half dismantling of Benfica in Lisbon, now sat joint-top of the league phase table with 9 points from 3 games.
Their +8 goal difference was second only to Manchester City's, whose ruthless demolition of RB Salzburg had made headlines.
Real Madrid were just behind on 9 points too but with a lesser goal difference after their gritty win away at Lazio, keeping themselves well within the qualification pack.
The numbers mattered, but so did the manner of their victories, and both Spanish giants had delivered football that demanded respect.
[Updated UEFA Champions League – League Phase Standings:]
[Top 10 – After Matchday 3:]
1. Manchester City – 9 points – GD: +10
2. Barcelona – 9 points – GD: +8
