European Soccer Weekend Highlights

 European Soccer Weekend Highlights

29 Evann GUESSAND (ogcn) during the Ligue 1 Uber Eats match between Olympique Gymnaste Club Nice and Olympique de Marseille at Allianz Riviera on October 21, 2023 in Nice, France. (Image-Getty)

Highlights from the European soccer leagues over the weekend:

GERMANY

Stuttgart's Triumph Overshadowed by Guirassy's Injury

VfB Stuttgart's triumph over Union Berlin was marred by a setback as their top-scoring player, Serhou Guirassy, sustained an injury during the match. The Guinea international, who had notched an impressive 14th goal in his eighth league appearance, was forced off the pitch in the first half. The club's official statement confirmed, "Serhou Guirassy sustained a minor muscle injury in his left thigh during the game against Union Berlin. The 27-year-old will be out of action for several weeks." Despite this setback, Stuttgart's strong performance has propelled them to second place in the Bundesliga, trailing only a point behind Bayer Leverkusen.

ITALY

Kvaratskhelia's Resurgence Vital for Napoli

Napoli's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia demonstrated a remarkable resurgence in form, securing a crucial 3-1 victory against Hellas Verona in Serie A with a stunning brace. The Georgian winger, renowned as the most valuable player in Serie A last season, had faced a lackluster start to the current campaign. However, his recent performance, which includes two goals and three assists in Napoli's past four league matches, signifies a significant upswing. With key striker Victor Osimhen sidelined due to injury, Kvaratskhelia's impactful play, fondly dubbed "Kvaradona," stands to be a crucial asset for manager Rudi Garcia. Commenting on Kvaratskhelia's recent form, Garcia emphasized, "...now he attacks without that pressure to score at all costs, and when he plays like that he makes the difference."

FRANCE

Farioli's Ambition Fuels Nice's Promising Start

Francesco Farioli's Nice extended their impressive run this season with a 1-0 triumph over Olympique Marseille, propelling them to the second spot in Ligue 1 with 19 points, trailing AS Monaco by just one point after nine games. Notably, Nice has conceded a mere four goals so far, the lowest among the top five European leagues. Despite their commendable performance, the club's 34-year-old Italian coach remains resolute in his pursuit of further success. Farioli emphasized the need for continued progress, stating, "If you want to stay at the top, you absolutely have to keep raising your standards. We still have a lot to achieve," following their win on Saturday.