Sid Lowe, a Guardian football writer and Madrid expert, shares his insights on the thrilling Champions League action. He delves into the controversial VAR penalty that heightened tensions in the Madrid derby. Lowe discusses the tactical duels between Real and Atletico Madrid, highlighting standout players and historical rivalries. The conversation also touches on Aston Villa's Champions League journey, their strategic style, and the challenges they face against PSG. Expect lively banter and deep dives into the emotional rollercoaster of modern football!

Guests Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini, Archie Rhind-Tutt, and Sid Lowe discuss Dortmund's surprising journey to the Champions League Final under Edin Tezij, analyzing the team's defensive performances and mindset. They also touch on the intense relegation playoff match between Fortuna Dusseldorf and Borkham, Real Madrid's media day before the final, and Juventus's leadership shake-up. The episode covers managerial changes, promotion battles, and speculations on Gasperini's reputation in Italian coaching.

Max Rushden chats with Sid Lowe, a football journalist known for his expertise in Spanish football, alongside others about Liverpool's dominance over Real Madrid. They review pivotal moments and discuss the pressure faced by key players. Sid dives into the contrast between Liverpool's successes and Real Madrid's recent inconsistencies. The group humorously ponders footballers' behaviors in quirky situations, while also reflecting on contract dilemmas for stars like Mo Salah and the unpredictable nature of upcoming matches.

Football Weekly: Franz Beckenbauer's immense legacy in German football is discussed, including his achievements as player and manager at Bayern Munich. The rise of Barcelona under Koolballa, La Liga match analysis, underdog team winning hearts, and Napoli's poor performance and managerial changes are also covered.

Philippe Auclair, a seasoned football journalist, joins Mark Langdon from the Racing Post, and Spanish expert Sid Lowe to dissect the latest Champions League thrills. They delve into Erling Haaland's remarkable performance and Liverpool's missed chances. Barcelona's stunning victory over Bayern Munich becomes a focal point, with discussions on tactical brilliance and key match moments. The trio also explores the emotional weight of historic rivalries and the youthful dynamism of modern football, setting the stage for exciting future clashes.

Football pundits and experts delve into Euro 2024 preview, discussing teams in Groups A and B, focusing on Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. Topics include player analyses, managerial strategies, challenges faced by teams, and political influences in Hungarian football. The hosts also touch on surprising sports outcomes, VAR debates, and share listener anecdotes.

Atletico beats Inter in thrilling Champions League match, Bournemouth's epic 3-0 comeback, player analysis of Griezmann and Memphis DePy, Barcelona's struggles, Dortmund's tactical victory, humor about Andy Townsend's dinner incident

Real Madrid's Champions League win, Harry Kane's aspirations discussed with football experts Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini, Archie Rhind-Tutt, and Sid Lowe. Tactical analysis, unexpected victories, player performances, and strategic moves in football highlighted. Listener messages and TikTok feedback addressed.

Sid Lowe, an insightful football journalist reporting from Lisbon, discusses the electrifying Benfica vs. Barcelona match that many are calling the greatest Champions League game ever. The conversation highlights the chaotic moments, including a controversial penalty and a comedic own goal. Lowe shares riveting details about key player performances and tactical strategies. The panel also reflects on Liverpool's impressive streak and debates football's complicated seeding systems, offering a mix of analysis and humorous banter.

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini, Lars Sivertsen and Sid Lowe as Sevilla beat Roma to win the Europa League for a record-extending seventh time. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod