🥐 More Vini, more Champions... 5 stories to start your Thursday | OneFootball

The football scene wakes up today marked by a mix of off-field tension and major surprises in the main European competitions.

While the debate on racism returns to the eye of the storm after incendiary statements by José Luis Chilavert against Vinícius Jr., the action on the pitch has not let up.

The Champions League and the Premier League have produced unexpected results that force a rethink of the favorites heading into the decisive stretch of the season, especially after the stumbles of giants like Atlético de Madrid and Arsenal.

The Vinícius controversy intensifies

The debate over racism in football has taken a bitter turn. After Gianni Infantino’s support for Vinícius Jr., Benfica has come out in defense of their player Prestianni. However, the discordant note was struck by former goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert, who ignited social media with statements justifying the attacks on the Brazilian, reopening a wound that seems far from healing in elite sports.

Nightmare night for Atlético

In the Champions, Atlético de Madrid experienced a “witches’ night” in Belgium. Cholo Simeone’s men squandered a 0-2 lead against Brugge after a brilliant first half, only to end up desperately holding on for a 3-3 draw. Defensive frailty in the second half, where they conceded three goals, leaves the tie wide open and raises many doubts about Atlético’s solidity.

Surprises and thrashings in Europe

The European matchday left Inter Milan shivering. The cold in Norway was too much for the Nerazzurri, who fell 3-1 to a Bodo Glimt side that is no longer a surprise. On the other hand, Newcastle steamrolled in Azerbaijan with a resounding 1-6 win over Qarabag, while Leverkusen did their job by winning 0-2 in Greece against Olympiacos.

Arsenal revives the Premier League

An unexpected plot twist in England. Arsenal, who were comfortably leading 0-2, allowed the bottom team to equalize in the 94th minute. A stunning goal by Hugo Bueno not only rescued an epic point for his team, but also tightens the title race, leaving the Gunners with no margin for error after an unforgivable lapse in concentration.

Cubarsí, confident of a comeback

Pau Cubarsí, already established as a regular for Hansi Flick at just 19 years old, has spoken to Mundo Deportivo. The Catalan center-back is self-critical after Barça’s last two defeats, but sends a message of optimism: he is convinced they will come back against Atlético. Cubarsí has unwavering faith in the support of the fans to fight for the most coveted trophy.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 NICOLAS TUCAT - AFP or licensors