Champions League 2024/25 Predictions: Round of 16 Second Legs
As the Champions League Round of 16 enters its decisive second-leg fixtures, several high-profile teams are looking to book their place in the quarter-finals. Here’s a look at the key matchups and predictions based on recent performances and first-leg results.
Liverpool vs. Paris Saint-Germain
First Leg: Liverpool 1-0 PSG
Liverpool pulled off a dramatic 1-0 win in the first leg with a late goal, despite having only 35% possession. PSG, under Luis Enrique, will be aggressive in the second leg, as they have now gone 93 consecutive Champions League games without a 0-0 draw. However, with Alisson Becker in top form, Liverpool are favorites to finish the job at Anfield and progress to the next round (uefa.com).
Prediction: Liverpool to advance
Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid played one of the most evenly matched first legs, with Atleti’s well-organized defense proving tough to break down. Historically, Real have had the upper hand in Champions League encounters, and with Jude Bellingham returning from suspension, they are expected to edge this tie. Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. will be key to breaking Atletico’s resilience (therealchamps.com).
Prediction: Real Madrid to advance
Dortmund vs. Lille
First Leg: 1-1 Draw
This is one of the most unpredictable fixtures, with the first leg ending in a draw. Lille have been strong at home, recently defeating Real Madrid in the group stage. However, Dortmund have a solid Champions League pedigree and are in improving form domestically. Expect a closely fought contest, but Dortmund’s experience might give them the edge (uefa.com).
Prediction: Dortmund to advance
Arsenal vs. PSV
First Leg: Arsenal 7-1 PSV
Arsenal completely dominated PSV in the first leg with a historic 7-1 victory, the biggest away win in Champions League knockout history. Given their advantage, Mikel Arteta may rotate his squad, but Arsenal are overwhelming favorites to progress (uefa.com).
Prediction: Arsenal to advance
Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen
This all-German clash has been highly anticipated, with Bayern Munich and Leverkusen both performing well in the Bundesliga. Bayern’s experience and individual quality, including Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala, make them the favorites, though Leverkusen have been one of the most improved sides in Europe this season (therealchamps.com).
Prediction: Bayern Munich to advance
Barcelona vs. Benfica
Benfica have been a surprise package this season, but Barcelona’s superior squad depth and attacking firepower should see them through. However, Xavi’s side has shown vulnerabilities in defense, which Benfica could exploit (sportingnews.com).
Prediction: Barcelona to advance
Napoli vs. Porto
Napoli struggled in the first leg, and Porto’s ability to defend well in knockout games could make this an interesting contest. While Napoli have the firepower to come back, Porto have a strong record in Champions League knockouts and could pull off an upset (sportingnews.com).
Prediction: Porto to advance
Aston Villa vs. Club Brugge
First Leg: Aston Villa 3-1 Club Brugge
Unai Emery’s side were clinical in the first leg, and they have enough quality to hold off Club Brugge in the second leg. With a two-goal advantage, Villa should see this through comfortably (uefa.com).
Prediction: Aston Villa to advance
Final Thoughts
The second legs promise exciting action, with close contests like Lille vs. Dortmund and Real Madrid vs. Atletico set to be decided by fine margins. Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich look well-positioned to advance, while Porto and Benfica could spring surprises.
Who do you think will make it to the quarter-finals? Let’s discuss!
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