Atlético vs Liverpool & PSG vs Dortmund - Champions League Preview
The Champions League is finally back after what always feels like an eternity without it and there are some interesting and difficult to call ties.
Here’s a little look into the first two fixtures from the Round of 16 and my prediction for which teams are most likely to progress to the quarter-finals:
Atlético Madrid vs Liverpool:
Two big European heavyweights in the Klopp and Simeone era go head to head in a fascinating tie between sides having very contrasting seasons.
This has arguably been Simeone’s most underwhelming season as Atletico Madrid manager, whilst Liverpool are running away with the Premier League in emphatic and currently invincible style.
I can see Atletico holding Liverpool off and making life difficult at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, but Liverpool are so strong at Anfield in the Champions League and over two legs I can’t see the holders being knocked out.
Liverpool to progress
Liverpool are enduring a truly incredible season under Jurgen Klopp; becoming the first team to qualify for next seasons Champions League as early as February.
Dortmund vs PSG:
This tie will probably end up being the most forgettable out of all the last sixteen ties, but on paper it should be raining goals.
These are two of the most attacking minded sides in Europe with some of the biggest firepower and they have both been scoring goals for fun in their respective leagues.
However, they both leak goals and have somewhat vulnerable defences. This is partly down to their hung go approach, where attack is the best form of defence, but also simply because they aren’t as strong defensively as some other big European teams.
Considering the unbelievable form of new signing Håland and Englishmen Jadon Sancho, Dortmund could simply blow PSG away and be too hot to handle.
Although I’d still say PSG are the favourites as they have a more experienced squad and with players like Mbappe, Icardi and (if fit) Neymar, they have the most talented attack in Europe.
PSG to progress
Paris-Saint-Germain occupy one of the most deadly attacking threats in Europe - consisting of both strength and depth.
Article by: Harry Dunnett
Edited by: Samuel Slaney
Thumbnail by: Fikiri Rasyid/Unsplash
Images from: Getty Images & Footy Renders