The Champions League quarterfinals continue this midweek with the second leg matches. Earlier in the week, despite valiant efforts, Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa couldn`t overcome significant first-leg deficits, losing to Barcelona and PSG respectively on aggregate.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, Real Madrid aims for a major comeback against Arsenal, while Inter Milan hosts Bayern Munich at the San Siro with a narrow lead.
Ties level on aggregate will proceed to extra time, followed by penalties if necessary.
Who will advance? Here are expert predictions for the upcoming matches:
Champions League Quarterfinals
Inter vs. Bayern Munich
Player to watch: Harry Kane, Bayern Munich – Harry Kane is expected to secure his first major trophy soon, but Bayern brought him in to make a difference in crucial matches like this Champions League quarterfinal. Will he be decisive on Wednesday night? — James Benge
Man of the match: Yann Sommer, Inter – The Swiss goalkeeper stood out in the first leg, contributing significantly to Inter`s 2-1 victory in Munich. He will need to perform at his peak again to help Inter secure a spot in the semifinals, even a draw would suffice. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Inter 1, Bayern Munich 1 – Bayern faces a tough challenge overcoming their first-leg loss, especially with injuries impacting the team. Inter, last year`s Champions League finalists, are favored to advance and potentially face FC Barcelona in the semifinals, reminiscent of the 2009-10 season when Inter, under Jose Mourinho, achieved the Treble. — Francesco Porzio
Real Madrid vs. Arsenal
Player to watch: Jurrien Timber, Arsenal – While William Saliba received deserved praise for Arsenal`s strong defense in the first leg, Jurrien Timber`s contribution at right-back was equally vital. If Timber can again neutralize Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid may struggle to overcome their three-goal deficit. — James Benge
Man of the match: Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid – For Real Madrid to stage a comeback against Arsenal after a 3-0 first-leg defeat, Vinicius Jr. must be at his best. He has already scored seven Champions League goals this season and is expected to form an attacking trio with Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe. However, a loss to Arsenal would be a significant setback in his career. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 0 – Real Madrid is known for comebacks, but overturning a 3-0 deficit against Arsenal will be exceptionally challenging. Despite injuries and players in unfamiliar positions, playing at the Santiago Bernabeu means you can never rule out Real Madrid. — Francesco Porzio
