The UEFA Champions League round of 16 returns on Tuesday and Wednesday night with four more big matches in the competition. Four of the biggest clubs in European soccer will clash in the first legs of their ties with a place in the quarterfinals.
Napoli vs. Barcelona
Italy’s Napoli host Spain’s Barcelona at the San Paolo in Naples. Barcelona have crashed out of the competition in the quarterfinals the last two seasons, throwing away big leads as their stars failed to show up.
Napoli are not a very good team but improving under coach Gennaro Gattuso. The ex-AC Milan midfielder took over the coaching reins after the Champions League group stage and has had an up and down time in charge of the team.
Although Napoli will be playing at home, they are up against Lionel Messi, who continues to lead Barcelona to wins despite the rest of the team’s failings. Both teams have won three straight games, but it is Barcelona with the firepower to get a big win away from home. Barcelona should win and set themselves up progression to the quarterfinals.
Winner: Barcelona
Chelsea vs. Bayern Munich
Chelsea welcome Bayern Munich to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night for their first leg fixture. The Germans are in good form winners of their last two matches in the Bundesliga. Hansi Flick’s team romped their way to the Champions League round of 16 and have the talent to get through to the final.
Bayern Munich’s defense maybe their weak point, however, Chelsea’s attack could be limited by striker Tammy Abraham being sidelined with an injury. The good news for manager Frank Lampard was the return to form over the weekend over former World Cup winner Olivier Giroud, who scored against Tottenham Hotspur.
The game in London should be close with Bayern Munich managing a draw or win. Chelsea’s defense will struggle to keep Bayern Munich’s attack in check. Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski could get on the scoresheet.
Winner: Bayern Munich
Lyon vs. Juventus
French club Lyon host Italy’s Juventus on Wednesday night in an intriguing tie. Lyon are fresh off of a win at the weekend over league rival Metz, but they will face off against a far more difficult opponent when Juventus come to town.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s team are one of the favorites to lift the Champions League trophy. However, issues with coach Maurizio Sarri could see Juventus once again fall short before making it to the final.
Juventus have far more talent than Lyon, but the home side will have a fiery set of supporters behind them. Juventus should narrowly win the first leg away from home and Ronaldo will most likely be the goalscorer to give them the win.
Winner: Juventus
Real Madrid vs. Manchester City
This is the tie of the Champions League round of 16. Real Madrid have won more Champions League trophies than any other club and last lifted the trophy in 2017-18. Manchester City have not won the trophy and it is the next step for the club.
Manchester City are facing a two-year ban from the Champions League starting next season due to breaking Financial Fair Play rules. The club are desperate to win the competition and this season is the best opportunity they have had.
While Manchester City are a favorite to win the competition and to beat Real Madrid, the hosts shouldn’t be counted out. The game should be high-scoring with over 2.5 goals scored and both teams finding the back of the net. I’m not sold on Manchester City winning the game and could see Real Madrid getting a draw. The Cityzens do crash in big games in the Champions League, so don’t be surprised if they fail at the round of 16.
Winner: Manchester City or draw
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