PSG set the pace as 78 goals and Martinez controversy dominate Uefa Champions League

Matchday two of the Uefa Champions League produced 78 goals in 18 matches, an average of more than four per game, as attacking football and off-field drama took centre stage across Europe.

Paris Saint-Germain’s 4-2 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium was the outstanding result. Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Vitinha and Maghnes Akliouche all scored as Luis Enrique’s side struck three times in the first half and established themselves as the team to beat.

Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was unable to keep out a shot from Akliouche during Wednesday night’s match.

City manager Enzo Maresca said: “At this level against teams with that kind of pace, if you lose the ball in dangerous areas and don’t press high enough, they will punish you instantly.”

Liverpool’s young players shine despite defensive concerns

Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool enjoyed a 6-3 win over LASK in Linz, with Bradley Barcola scoring a hat-trick. Teenagers Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha also impressed, while Lewis Koumas contributed a goal and an assist.

Liverpool’s defence, however, weakened after Iraola replaced both starting centre-backs around the hour mark. LASK scored two quick goals in the second half, prompting the manager to explain his decision.

“I think there is a reason why managers will never change both centre-backs together,” said Iraola. “But obviously when you’re winning 4-0, I have to start thinking about the next game. Ronald and Jeremy were players that have been really demanded lately, and I thought it was the right moment to give them rest.”

Bayern Munich and Inter Milan stumble

Two established European powers endured difficult nights. Inter Milan suffered a chaotic 4-3 defeat by Club Brugge at San Siro, while Bayern Munich were held to a 3-3 draw by Viking FK in Norway.

Both results exposed defensive weaknesses and left the two clubs with issues to address after the second round of fixtures.

Villa and Arsenal deliver, while Bodø stun Dortmund

Aston Villa recorded a 6-0 victory over Fenerbahce at Villa Park. Nicolas Jackson scored twice, with Johan Manzambi, Ross Barkley and Tammy Abraham also on the scoresheet.

Arsenal beat Lille 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium, maintaining a clean sheet through second-half goals from Jurrien Timber, Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka.

FK Bodø/Glimt produced the biggest surprise of the night by defeating Borussia Dortmund 1-0 above the Arctic Circle, underlining the difficulty of travelling to northern Norway.

Martinez faces uncertainty after United defeat

Manchester United lost 2-0 to Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano, but the greater crisis followed when defender Lisandro Martinez criticised technical director Jason Wilcox over the club’s summer recruitment.

United’s hierarchy are considering disciplinary action, with reports suggesting Martinez could be sacked or receive a lengthy suspension for gross misconduct.

In a subsequent statement, Martinez said: “After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted.

“Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don’t go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United.

“My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours.”