This week will determine the four semi-finalists of the 2024-25 Champions League season. The semi-finals are scheduled for April 29-30 and May 6-7, leading up to the final on May 31 in Munich. Barcelona and PSG are in a favorable position after their first-leg victories, while Real Madrid faces a tough challenge to overturn a 3-0 deficit against Arsenal. Bayern Munich, despite injuries, needs to recover from a 2-1 loss to Inter in the first leg.
The second leg matches will be played on Tuesday and Wednesday. Barcelona will travel to Dortmund after winning 4-0 at home, and PSG will visit Aston Villa following a 3-1 victory in Paris on Tuesday. Inter will host Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid will play against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.
The winner of the Barcelona vs. Borussia Dortmund tie will play against either Inter or Bayern Munich in the semi-finals. The winner of the Arsenal vs. Real Madrid match will face either PSG or Aston Villa.
FC Barcelona`s Advantage
Barcelona has a significant advantage after defeating Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the first leg. They are close to reaching their first semi-final since 2019. Barcelona will play in Dortmund, a familiar ground for their striker Robert Lewandowski, who played there from 2010 to 2014.
PSG Nearing Semi-Finals
PSG is also in a strong position to reach the semi-finals after a 3-1 victory against Aston Villa. Reaching the semi-finals would be a consecutive achievement for the French team. After winning Ligue 1, PSG is aiming to win the Champions League for the first time, a major goal for manager Luis Enrique.
Real Madrid`s Comeback Challenge
Real Madrid faces a significant challenge as they need to overcome a 3-0 defeat against Arsenal at home. Real Madrid is known for historic comebacks, especially in the 2021-22 season. However, Arsenal`s strong performance in the first leg and Real Madrid`s injuries make this task difficult. Despite the odds, Real Madrid believes in their ability to turn the tie around at the Bernabeu.
Inter`s Chance Against Bayern Munich
Inter will host Bayern Munich in a closely contested quarter-final after winning 2-1 in Munich. A victory for Inter would be a major achievement, especially after their narrow defeat to Manchester City in the 2023 final. Inter, under Simone Inzaghi, is aiming for their fourth Champions League title, with their last win in 2010 under Jose Mourinho.
