The UEFA Champions League is back this week with the quarterfinal stage, showcasing Europe`s elite teams vying for the prestigious title.
Current champions Real Madrid are aiming for their 16th Champions League victory and will face Arsenal, who haven`t reached the semifinals in nearly two decades. Real Madrid is one of the teams still in contention for a treble, alongside Barcelona, their rivals for all three major trophies. They will play against Borussia Dortmund, last year`s finalists, in their quarterfinal match on Wednesday.
Inter Milan is also chasing a treble and will compete against Bayern Munich in a rematch of the 2010 final, which Inter won. This classic European encounter will highlight the strength of the teams aiming for the semifinals. Paris Saint-Germain, considered the most exciting team remaining after defeating Liverpool, and Aston Villa, enjoying a remarkable run in their first Champions League season in 40 years, complete the quarterfinal lineup.
Champions League Quarterfinals Predictions
| Matchup | James Benge | Roger Gonzalez | Francesco Porzio | Chuck Booth | Pardeep Cattry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayern vs. Inter | 2-0 | 1-1 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-1 |
| Arsenal vs. Real Madrid | 1-0 | 1-2 | 2-2 | 1-2 | 1-2 |
| PSG vs. Aston Villa | 3-1 | 2-2 | 3-1 | 2-1 | 2-1 |
| Barcelona vs. Dortmund | 3-2 | 1-1 | 3-1 | 2-1 | 3-1 |
Bayern Munich vs. Inter
Player to watch: Leroy Sane – With impressive recent form, Sane is a key player for Bayern. However, with his contract nearing expiration, this could be his last Champions League game at Allianz Arena. A strong performance could change that.
Man of the match: Lautaro Martinez – Inter remains a top European team, and Martinez is central to their success. Back from injury, he is expected to start alongside Marcus Thuram.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 0, Inter 1 – Inter`s consistency makes them a strong bet, especially against an inconsistent Bayern side weakened by injuries. Harry Kane`s efforts might not be enough against Inter`s solid defense.
Best bet: Under 2.5 goals scored (-110) – Expect a tight, defensive game, typical of Inter matches and first-leg Champions League encounters. Goals may be scarce in this match.
Arsenal vs. Real Madrid
Player to watch: Martin Odegaard – Facing his former team, Odegaard hasn`t been at his peak recently due to injury. This quarterfinal is a perfect opportunity for him to regain form and make a significant impact.
Man of the match: Kylian Mbappe – Mbappe is poised for a big performance at the Emirates. With a strong Champions League scoring record and matching Ronaldo`s goal tally in his first Real Madrid season, he could make history in London.
Prediction: Arsenal 1, Real Madrid 2 – Arsenal`s overall Champions League form is strong, but Gabriel`s injury weakens their defense against Real Madrid. Despite their vulnerabilities, Real Madrid often finds ways to win, making it unwise to underestimate the reigning champions.
Best bet: Real Madrid to win (+220) – Despite Real Madrid`s La Liga struggles, Arsenal`s defensive injuries give Real Madrid an edge. At these odds, backing Real Madrid is a compelling choice.
PSG vs. Aston Villa
Player to watch: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Kvaratskhelia`s arrival has significantly boosted PSG`s Champions League ambitions, elevating them to genuine contenders. His unpredictable play adds a new dimension to PSG`s attack.
Man of the match: Vitinha – An underrated but crucial player for PSG, Vitinha`s strong performances often correlate with PSG`s victories and best play.
Prediction: Paris Saint-Germain 2, Aston Villa 1 – With the Ligue 1 title secured, PSG can fully focus on the Champions League. After defeating Liverpool, they are expected to overcome Villa, though Villa has the attacking quality to keep it competitive.
Best bet: Ousmane Dembele to score (+125) – Playing at home, PSG will aim for a fast start, and Dembele`s excellent form makes him a prime candidate to score early. Aston Villa`s defense may struggle against PSG`s numerous attacking threats, allowing Dembele to find the net.
Barcelona vs. Dortmund
Player to watch: Maximilian Beier – Beier, in excellent Bundesliga form, poses a significant threat to Barcelona`s defense in what is expected to be a fast-paced match.
Man of the match: Raphinha – Despite a recent dip in form, Raphinha is expected to step up in the Champions League. This match against Dortmund is an ideal opportunity for him to shine.
Prediction: Barcelona 3, Borussia Dortmund 1 – This quarterfinal appears to be the most uneven match-up. Barcelona`s strong attack, led by Lewandowski and Yamal, should be too much for Dortmund, although Dortmund is likely to score.
Best bet: Raphinha to have 2+ shots on target (-105) – In the Champions League, top players often rise to the occasion, and Raphinha is expected to test Dortmund`s defense with multiple shots on target.
