The Champions League has reached the exciting last 16 stage, and this week kicks off with the first legs of four thrilling matches. At this point in the competition, teams will start to believe they have a genuine shot at lifting Europe’s most prestigious trophy, and a victory in the first leg could set them up perfectly for a strong campaign.
This week’s action features three British teams—Tottenham, Manchester City, and Liverpool. However, the most anticipated clash involves neither of them. PSG’s trip to Real Madrid could mark a significant shift in European football power. Real Madrid have long been a dominant force, but PSG, with their heavy investment and ambition, aim to unseat the Spanish giants. This game will be a true test of PSG’s progress over the past couple of years and will reveal if they are ready to challenge for the top spot.
The other four ties will follow next week, offering a chance for some teams to make an early statement and show the rest of Europe that they are legitimate contenders. Of this week’s matches, Manchester City appears the most likely to lay down a marker, but all eyes will be on the clash in Spain—can Real Madrid showcase their experience against an ever-improving PSG?
This week is just the beginning, with four game weeks ahead to determine which eight teams will advance to the quarter-finals. The stage is set, and now it’s up to the teams to demonstrate who truly wants to reach the top.
Our Predictions for the Week
Tuesday
- Basel vs Manchester City – Predicted Winner: Manchester City
- Juventus vs Tottenham – Predicted Outcome: Draw
Wednesday
- Porto vs Liverpool – Predicted Outcome: Draw
- Real Madrid vs PSG – Predicted Winner: Real Madrid
Televised Games and Key Match Previews
Basel vs Manchester City – Tuesday, 19:45 BT Sport 3
Among the English teams, Manchester City arguably have the most favorable draw in this stage of the competition and will approach their trip to Basel with confidence. With a busy schedule, it wouldn’t be surprising to see City try to secure the tie in the first leg by taking an aggressive approach to build a strong lead. Given the difference in quality between the teams, Manchester City should comfortably take the win against the Swiss side.
Juventus vs Tottenham – Tuesday, 19:45 BT Sport 2
This encounter promises to deliver excitement, with both sides favoring an attacking style of play. However, Tottenham may adopt a more cautious approach to take something positive back to London for the second leg. Although Spurs have the ability to win, they will likely focus on avoiding defeat, making a draw the most probable outcome.
Juventus pose a significant threat with their attacking talents, but Tottenham’s recent form has been impressive. This game could see Spurs defending more than usual, which might give them a slight advantage heading into the return leg.
Porto vs Liverpool – Wednesday, 19:45 BT Sport 2
Liverpool seem to have the upper hand over Porto across two legs, but traveling to Portugal is never easy, and Porto will look to make the most of their home advantage. Meanwhile, Liverpool will know that even a draw would put them in a strong position heading into the second leg at Anfield.
Similar to the approach Tottenham might take, Liverpool could choose to play more conservatively, aiming to secure a favorable result without taking unnecessary risks. Although Porto will need to be on the attack, the game could very well end in a draw.
Real Madrid vs PSG – Wednesday, 19:45 BT Sport 3
This highly anticipated clash might mark the beginning of a new era in European football. PSG have made significant investments to compete at the highest level, and this is undoubtedly their toughest challenge yet. While they showed glimpses of brilliance during the group stage, this two-legged tie will be the true test of their progress.
On the other hand, Real Madrid bring a wealth of experience to the competition and understand what it takes to emerge victorious. Their familiarity with high-stakes games could give them an edge in the first leg. A narrow win for Madrid would set up a tantalizing second leg, with PSG needing to go on the offensive at home.
This game will undoubtedly draw a lot of attention, despite it being the only match this week without a British team, and promises to be a must-watch. I expect Real Madrid’s experience to prevail, giving them a crucial first-leg advantage.
Betting Odds Analysis
This week offers enticing opportunities for those looking to place bets, with just one odds-on favorite among the fixtures. Manchester City, at 4/11, is the only clear favorite as they face Basel.
The other three games are much tighter, with odds indicating closely contested matchups. On Tuesday, Juventus are favored to beat Tottenham at 21/20, while Spurs are available at 7/2. On Wednesday, the clash between Real Madrid and PSG sees Madrid slightly favored at 6/4 due to their home advantage, with PSG priced at 9/5. Liverpool are the favorites for their match against Porto, available at 6/4, while Porto are at 11/10.
Special Betting Offers for the Champions League
Juventus vs Tottenham – 50/1 for a Goal to Be Scored with Ladbrokes
For new customers opening a betting account with Ladbrokes, there’s an exciting offer of 50/1 odds on a goal being scored in the Juventus vs. Tottenham match. Considering both teams’ attacking prowess, this bet provides great value and is certainly worth exploring.
Juventus vs Tottenham – Double Winnings If Your Team Wins Both Halves with Coral
Coral is offering an attractive promotion for this game, available to both new and existing customers. If the team you bet on wins both halves, you’ll receive double the winnings as a free bet. For those planning to back either team, this promotion adds an extra incentive.
Betfred’s Double Delight & Hat-Trick Heaven on First Goal Scorer Bets
If you plan to place a first goal scorer bet, Betfred’s “Double Delight & Hat-Trick Heaven” promotion is a great choice. The offer is available for the following Champions League games this week:
- Juventus vs Tottenham
- Porto vs Liverpool
If your selected player scores first, you’ll receive a payout at the normal odds. However, if the player scores a second goal, you’ll be paid at double the odds, and if they score a third, the payout will triple, providing excellent value for your bet.