RB Leipzig 3-1 victory over gritty Red Star Belgrade

When Red Star lost control in their own half, the Germans quickly put together a five-touch passing play that culminated in David Raum scoring his first-ever Champions League goal with his left foot, giving the hosts the lead in the 12th minute. The longest-serving Leipzig player, Yussuf Poulsen, forced keeper Omri Glazer to save a curled shot as the visitors initially found it difficult to keep up with the Germans' fast tempo. Poulsen signed a contract extension this week.

After a reckless challenge by Castello Lukeba on the half hour, the Serbians felt they had won some much-needed reprieve when they were granted a penalty. However, the referee quickly overturned his judgement after a VAR review. After replacing Osman Bukari, who had scored in both of the team's prior group games, Red Star appeared more focused after the interval.