Berlin, 28 November 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Silas ignited a comeback against his parent club as Red Star Belgrade thrashed VfB Stuttgart 5-1 to earn their first points of the Champions League season, along with Sturm Graz who edged Girona 1-0 in the other early kick-off on Wednesday.

Bundesliga runners-up Stuttgart had a dream start when Ermedin Demirovic fired them ahead five minutes into the game.

But Silas, who left Stuttgart on loan in summer for the former European champions from Serbia, stole the ball from Enzo Millot seven minutes later, and Rade Krunic smashed Red Star ahead into the roof of the net in the 31st.

Stuttgart then collapsed after the break as Mirko Ivanic headed home in the 65th, and fellow substitute Nemanja Radonic added a 69th and 88th minute brace to complete an emphatic victory.

There was also joy in Graz where the Austrian hosts got their first points from Mika Biereth, who fired home after Girona goalkeeper Paul Gazzaniga had parried a first effort from Seedy Jatta.

Seven further matches were scheduled for later Wednesday, with Liverpool v Real Madrid the top pick. Liverpool are the only team with maximum points, Real the reigning and record 15-time champions.

Photo: X/ Red Star