Champions League - first phase

Roma 1 - Real Madrid 2

A brilliant victory by Real Madrid over Italian champions Roma appears to have finally kick started their season. Raúl and Guti should both have scored from easy chances before an inspirational Luis Figo finally gave Madrid the lead they deserved from a free kick. The Portuguese winger then set up Guti to head the second with just over an hour gone. Roma came back with a penalty from Totti after Karanka brought down Zebina, and although Balbo did hit the bar shortly afterwards, Raúl could have made it three near the end when Pelizzoli pushed his shot against the foot of the upright. In injury time Casillas saved from Batistuta to ensure a first three points for his side and a best possible start to this year's Champions League. (11.09.01)

Mallorca 1 - Arsenal 0

Mallorca made their debut at the league stage of the European tournament with a professionally constructed victory over Arsenal. The turning point of the game came in the twelfth minute when Danish referee Knud Erik Fisker ruled that Ashley Cole had fouled Luque from behind in the penalty area, sending off the young full back with a direct red card. It was a harsh decision, and when Engonga coolly slotted the ball past Seaman from the resulting spot kick they were halfway home. An orderly defence did the rest to set them off on the right foot, although the downside was the injuries to Ibagaza and Engonga, who both had to leave the field of play during the game. (11.09.01)