The UEFA Europa League quarterfinals are down to the elite eight. The teams are just three steps away from lifting the Europa League trophy.
Unlike in years past, the quarterfinals — and semifinals — will be one-off games rather than the traditional two-legged home and away series. The one-off game format should create a frantic pace in which each team knows there is no second match to overcome a deficit. In addition, the away goals rule is not in effect for the Europa League quarterfinals.
So, here are my picks for the elite eight on August 10 and 11.
Inter ...