Houllier basks in 'beautiful game'

French champions Olympique Lyonnais scored three goals and missed a penalty in a memorable first half at the Stade Gerland, eventually running out 3-0 victors against Real Madrid CF to get their Group F campaign off to a sensational start. Brazilian Juninho Pernambucano was the architect of Lyon's victory, setting the first up for John Carew before doubling the lead with a long-range free-kick. Sylvain Wiltord added a third with a fine volley before Juninho missed the chance to make it 4-0 from the penalty spot. Madrid improved after the break, but the home team held firm to take maximum points.

Gérard Houllier, Lyon coach
I think the game was very balanced in the first half, despite the score. In the second half, Madrid improved. But our defence was efficient and we tried to make as few mistakes as possible. The match was spectacular. It was a beautiful game and we scored at the right moments. I was afraid that we would be overawed by the occasion, but the players rose to the challenge. Even if we had lost, I would still continue to dream of the final. I'm really confident in my team. We are capable of holding our own against anyone in Europe.

Vanderlei Luxemburgo, Madrid coach

Juninho, Lyon goalscorer
That was my 20th goal from a free-kick since I arrived at Lyon. It is always great to score at the Stade Gerland in front of our fans. I think we deserved it, but we had to work for it.

John Carew, Lyon goalscorer
We have a great team. I'm not at all surprised. We knew that if we played at 100 per cent then anything was possible.

Florent Malouda, Lyon forward
These are big moments of joy. We will remember this for a long time. It wasn't easy but we got three points and that is the most important thing.

Grégory Coupet, Lyon goalkeeper