Champions League Fantasy Heroes: The Unlikely Stars Who Outshone Kane, Mbappé and Haaland
The third matchday of the Champions League fantasy tournament delivered some surprising heroes who managed to overshadow the usual superstars. While Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland continued their impressive form, it was several under-the-radar players who truly dominated the fantasy points.
Fantasy Team Selection Rules
Before diving into our standout performers, let’s clarify how this fantasy dream team was selected:
- Squad construction follows standard fantasy rules: maximum 100M budget, no more than three players from any single club
- Tie-breaker rule: When players have equal points, the cheaper option gets selected
- This represents an optimal fantasy lineup – not any real player’s team or editorial selection
- Players are grouped by position (defenders-midfielders-forwards) in alphabetical order
- Points are calculated without captain bonuses for clearer comparison between matchdays
Goalkeeper Hero: Nick Pope’s Unlikely Assist
Nick Pope, Newcastle (1.7% ownership) – 9 points
We typically expect defenders to contribute attacking returns to make the fantasy team of the week, but Newcastle’s goalkeeper took it a step further – becoming an assist-providing goalkeeper! Pope’s remarkable contribution came during Newcastle’s home match against Athletic Club, adding an unexpected dimension to his fantasy value.
The English shot-stopper now faces Marseille away and will need to contain Mason Greenwood’s threat. However, clean sheet opportunities remain likely against Spanish opposition, making him an intriguing fantasy option.
Defensive Masterclass: Konrad Laimer’s Hat-Trick of Assists
Konrad Laimer, Bayern Munich (4.4%) – 16 points
After disappointing returns of just 3 fantasy points in each of the first two matchdays, Laimer exploded against a resilient Club Brugge side. The Bayern defender registered a hat-trick of assists (including an unfortunate shot that turned into Nicolas Jackson’s goal) combined with a clean sheet for a massive 16-point haul.
While Bayern remain tournament favorites, fantasy managers should exercise caution – upcoming away fixtures against PSG and Arsenal present significantly tougher challenges.
Midfield Marvels: Unexpected Heroes Shine
Fermín López, Barcelona (1.4%) – 18 points
Fantasy managers who checked Barcelona’s lineup before the deadline were rewarded handsomely. While Marcus Rashford (due to his low price) was selected by over a third of players, and Lamine Yamal and Pedri featured in the most popular picks, it was Fermín López who unexpectedly stole the show against Olympiacos.
His hat-trick performance earned a massive 18 fantasy points. However, upcoming away matches at Club Brugge and Chelsea, plus Rafinha’s potential return affecting playing time, make him a risky fantasy investment.
Dennis Man, PSV (0.06%) – 15 points
After a disappointing start (just one point across two matchdays), PSV suddenly demolished Napoli with six goals, featuring a brace from Dennis Man. The midfielder had scored half as many goals in his previous seven matches this season and wasn’t always guaranteed starting minutes.
These two goals could secure his starting position. With upcoming Champions League fixtures against Olympiacos and Liverpool, opportunities to shine should continue.
Forward Surprise: Gorka Guruzeta Outshines Superstars
Gorka Guruzeta, Athletic Club (0.45%) – 12 points
In a matchday featuring three superstar forwards in spectacular form (Kane, Mbappé, Haaland), the best fantasy forward turned out to be someone completely unexpected. Guruzeta, who scored against Dortmund last matchday, now added two more against Qarabag.
His playing time has steadily increased: 22 minutes → 45 minutes → 90 minutes. As a budget forward option enabling more premium midfield investments, he represents the perfect differential pick for fantasy managers seeking an edge.
