Matchday 10 is a key stage of the competition where everything becomes more serious. Teams are either trying to protect their advantage from the first leg or fighting hard to recover after going behind.

At this point, every goal and every mistake can change the final result.

This round feels like a tough contest. Some teams must attack from the first minute to turn things around.

Clubs like Juventus are looking to bounce back after losing 5-2 to Galatasaray, while clubs like Inter Milan need to overturn a 3-1 loss against Bodo/Glimt.

Other teams are in a strong position and just need to complete the job. Clubs like Newcastle carry a big 6-1 lead into their second leg, and clubs like Bayer Leverkusen hold a comfortable 2-0 advantage over Olympiacos.

These teams can play with more control as they try to secure their place in the next round.

With some clubs coming to attack and others trying to protect their lead, this matchday is hard to predict.

Picking players from teams that are more likely to win or control their games can give you UCL Managers better chance of getting strong returns.

UCL Matchday 9 Team Review

Matchday 9 was a strong week for my team as they collected a total of 82 points in the first leg of the play-offs. The squad delivered solid returns across all positions, and several players stepped up at important moments.

Captain Kylian Mbappe returned 10 points after his score was doubled from a 5-point haul. Even though he did not score, he played a key role against a strong Benfica defense and created space for teammates.

One of those players was Vinicius Junior, who scored the winning goal and earned 7 points, helping the Real Madrid double up pay off.

In attack, Julian Alvarez and Ademola Lookman also contributed well in a high-scoring game.

Alvarez scored from the penalty spot to finish with 7 points, while Lookman also found the net and added another 7 points. Both players rewarded the trust placed in them.

In midfield, Anthony Gordon delivered the standout performance with a massive 27-point haul after scoring four goals in one half. His performance almost decided the tie on his own.

The midfield duo of Vitinha and Kvaratskhelia combined for 5 points in the match between PSG and Monaco.

Vitinha missed a penalty, but Kvaratskhelia remained active and involved throughout the game.

At the back, Malick Thiaw stood out with 9 points after a strong defensive display and an attacking contribution.

Achraf Hakimi added 7 points, proving that attack-minded defenders can still bring good returns. In goal, Marco Carnesecchi provided steady saves.

Overall, Matchday 9 was a strong performance. Now the focus shifts to the second leg and making smart transfer decisions based on the upcoming fixtures.

Two Free Transfers Heading Into Matchday 10

Heading into Matchday 10, my team needed adjustments. Lautaro Martínez is injured and Malick Thiaw is suspended, so I used my two free transfers to strengthen the squad and prepare for the second leg.

I brought in Serhou Guirassy to replace Lautaro. He is in strong form with four goals and three assists so far this season, he also contributed in the first leg.

With Dortmund holding a 2-0 lead at home, he has a strong chance to add more points.

In defence, I replaced Thiaw with Dan Burn. He brings stability and plays for Newcastle, who carry a big 6-1 advantage into the second leg. He also offers clean sheet potential and can contribute going forward.

With these changes, my squad is balanced and ready for the decisive games. Julian Alvarez will be holding my armband as captain for this matchday.

How is your team set up for the second leg? Drop your transfers, captain pick, and any big moves you made ahead of Matchday 10. Let’s discuss and see who made the best decisions.