The 2025/26 European football season erupted into life this weekend, delivering a string of stunning results that sent shockwaves through Serie A, La Liga, and the Bundesliga. Traditional powerhouses including Juventus, Barcelona, and Borussia Dortmund all stumbled at the first hurdle, setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable campaign.
Serie A: Juventus Collapse, Inter Survive Scare
In Italy, the opening weekend was nothing short of chaotic. Massimiliano Allegri's new-look Juventus suffered a nightmare start, capitulating to a 3-1 defeat away at newly-promoted Como. Despite taking an early lead, defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed, casting immediate doubt on their title credentials.
Meanwhile, city rivals Inter Milan narrowly avoided a similar fate. A late, contentious penalty decision allowed them to snatch a 2-1 victory over a resilient Udinese side. The controversial call left Udinese feeling aggrieved and highlighted the fine margins that often decide matches at the highest level.
La Liga: Barcelona's Away Day Blues Continue
Over in Spain, Barcelona's well-documented struggles on the road persisted. Their trip to the gritty Vallecas neighbourhood of Madrid ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano. Xavi's men, once again, failed to turn possession into three points, raising familiar questions about their consistency and cutting edge away from the Camp Nou.
Bundesliga: Dortmund's False Start
The narrative of disappointment extended to Germany, where Borussia Dortmund began their post-Sebastian Haller era with a whimper. A lacklustre performance saw them held to a goalless draw at home by a disciplined VfL Bochum. The inability to break down a stubborn defence will be a major concern for the Dortmund faithful who hoped for a fast start to the season.
Early Season Statements Made
This collective stutter from the continent's giants serves as a potent reminder of the increasing competitiveness across Europe's top leagues. The results have instantly piled pressure on managers and shifted the early dynamics, proving that no fixture can be taken for granted. All eyes will now be on how these teams respond in the coming weeks to avert a full-blown crisis.
