The second matchday of the Round of 16 in the Champions League is jam-packed with thrilling matchups between some of Europe’s best clubs. Let’s take a closer look at what’s in store and what my predictions are for this set of first legs.
Feyenoord vs Inter
My prediction Feyenoord 1-2 Inter. Feyenoord already sent the “Rossoneri” packing during the knockoff round playoff after a couple hard fought matches. Inter however is a different story and they pose a much more formidable challenge than their city rivals. I foresee this being a tough and physical match with the Italian side coming out on top.
Bayern vs Bayer Leverkusen
My prediction Bayern 1-1 Leverkusen. A German clash between the last two Bundesliga champions promises to be an excilirating match. Bayern are spearheaded by the English marksman Harry Kane who’s scored 7 times in 9 Champions League matches. Leverkusen are not quite at the unbeatable level they were at last season but Xavi Alonso and his men are still a force to be reckoned with and they still count with the services of Florian Wirtz, Patrik Schick, Jeremie Frimpong and company. For this match I see a draw at the Allianz followed by a dramatic resolutiont at the BayArena on the return leg.
Benfica vs Barcelona
My prediction Benfica 1-3 Barcelona. The "Culés” have been in dominant form under German coach Hansi Flick, sitting near the top of La Liga and housing some of the most in-form players of the moment. I refer of course to Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski (who’s scored 9 in the competition so far) and wonderkid Lamine Yamal. If you’ve been following the Champions League this year then you must recall the dramatic fashion in which the last encounter between these two ended. Benfica can give Barcelona some of a fight while playing in their home soil but I don’t see them being able to overcome the Blaugrana.
PSG vs Liverpool
Both of these teams have showcased some masterful performances in this year‘s competition. PSG recently trashed fellow French side Brest 10-0 on aggregate during the knockoff round playoff but Liverpool is arguably the best team in the world right now, top of the Premier League and classifying at the very top of the Champions League table. Arne Slot’s men are a solid squad, with Mohamed Salah in the middle of an all-time season; 51 goal contributions in all comps and currently in the conversation for the Ballon d'Or. Virgil van Dijk has been unmovable at the back and Dominik Szoboszlai has evolved into a linchpin in the midfield. This fixture promises a lot of goals and drama, but I see the British team edging out a victory on French soil.