UEFA Champions League Round 2: Man United Star Matches Mbappe

Recently, UEFA announced the standout lineup for the second qualifying round of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League. Remarkably, ex-Man United forward Rasmus Hojlund was placed on par with Kylian Mbappe.

Second Round of the League Phase UEFA Champions League 2025/26 concluded with many dramatic moments, ranging from intense matches to shining star performances. While Kylian Mbappé continued to prove his elite European status by scoring a hat-trick for Real Madrid, Rasmus Højlund was the biggest sensation last week, netting twice against Sporting Lisbon and earning the Man of the Match award.

The best XI released by UEFA featured familiar names: Ødegaard, Sabitzer, Nuno Mendes, and Dumfries. However, the main focus was on Højlund, the young Danish striker playing for Napoli. Against a tightly defensive Sporting Lisbon, Højlund showcased his killer instinct with a brace, helping the Serie A side secure a crucial win to keep their hopes alive for a top 8 finish.

This form is even more significant considering Højlund faced much skepticism since leaving the Premier League to revive his career in Italy. The expensive signing was expected to become Europe’s new “number 9,” but many thought he would need time to adjust. Now, his brace in the Champions League not only secured three points for Napoli but also sent a strong message that Højlund is ready to join the ranks of Europe’s top strikers.

Alongside Højlund, Kylian Mbappé also left his mark for Real Madrid. In the highlight match of the round, the French star scored a hat-trick against Kairat Almaty, extending the Royal Club’s momentum. Both featured in the best forward line, symbolizing a balance between present and future: a seasoned superstar at his peak and a rising young “killer” steadily making his name.

Besides Højlund and Mbappé, round 2 showcased many impressive performances. Ødegaard controlled Arsenal’s midfield with a goal and an assist; Sabitzer scored for Dortmund in an emotional match; Eric Dier held his nerve to convert a last-minute penalty, helping Monaco draw with Man City. Defensively, Galatasaray’s goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır excelled with numerous saves, earning the title of the “silent hero” of the week.

In a competition where young stars often prove their worth, Højlund’s brilliance recalls Mbappé’s early days when he conquered Europe with speed and scoring instinct. Of course, Højlund’s journey is just beginning, but his double against Sporting Lisbon proves he has what it takes to reach that elite level.

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Shining in the Champions League, Hojlund achieves an unprecedented feat at Man United Striker Rasmus Hojlund reached a remarkable milestone after his standout performance helped Napoli secure victory over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. See More