Real Madrid and Sevilla scoop valuable Champions League points

The second day of UEFA Champions League football saw two battling performances from Real Madrid and Sevilla. The holders needed a dramatic late comeback to take all three points at the Bernabeu after Portugal’s Sporting CP had struck first. In Turin, Sevilla FC earned a valuable point at the home of the Italian champions Juventus.

Real Madrid started their title defence in a tough game in front of their own fans. Sporting CP, the only side left with a 100% record in the Portuguese league this season, challenged Madrid for possession of the ball and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. Bruno Cesar put the visitors ahead just after halftime with a low curling shot and Madrid had to wait until the final minutes of the game to mount their comeback. Cristiano Ronaldo netted against his childhood club with a great freekick in the 89th minute, and in time added on, substitutes James Rodriguez and Alvaro Morata combined, the latter powering a header though the keeper to secure the victory.

Morata: "I knew where James would put it and I gave it my all. I came back here to triumph with Madrid." #UCL pic.twitter.com/xG8S9eom0P

— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) September 14, 2016

Sevilla battled for a well-earned point away to Juventus with a disciplined performance. The Andalusians, who won the last three Europa League competitions, competed well and started their 2016/17 Champions League campaign on the right foot. The woodwork and keeper Sergio Rico came to the rescue in the closing stages as Jorge Sampaoli’s men stood firm.

In all, the four LaLiga teams took 10 points from a possible 12 in their opening group games.