Champions League expert picks, predictions: Will Real Madrid pull off a miracle against Arsenal in Spain?

The UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second legs are upon us this midweek. In Tuesday`s matches, Borussia Dortmund`s 3-1 victory over Barcelona wasn`t enough to overcome their aggregate deficit (losing 5-3), and Aston Villa`s spirited comeback with three goals fell short against PSG, leaving them trailing 5-4 on aggregate. Ultimately, the first-leg multi-goal defeats proved too difficult to recover from for both home sides.

Wednesday features Real Madrid attempting a significant comeback against Arsenal, while Inter Milan hosts Bayern Munich at the San Siro with a one-goal lead.

Matches tied on aggregate will proceed to 30 minutes of extra time, and if still level, penalty kicks will determine the winner.

Who will advance? See our expert predictions below.

Here are our expert picks for this matchday:

Champions League quarterfinals

Inter vs. Bayern Munich

Player to watch: Harry Kane, Bayern Munich – The England captain is expected to secure major honors soon, but Bayern`s acquisition of Kane was aimed at Champions League success. He`s meant to be the difference-maker in tight matches. Can he deliver on Wednesday night? — James Benge

Man of the match: Yann Sommer, Inter – The Swiss goalkeeper stood out in the first leg, contributing significantly to Inter`s 2-1 victory at Bayern Munich. He reaffirmed his status as a top goalkeeper. Inter needs his peak performance to avoid defeat on Wednesday, as a draw also secures their semifinal spot. — Francesco Porzio

Prediction: Inter 1, Bayern Munich 1 – Bayern faces a difficult challenge overcoming their first-leg loss, compounded by injuries, against the previous Champions League finalists. Inter is favored to advance to the semifinals, potentially setting up a rematch with FC Barcelona, reminiscent of the 2009-10 season when Inter achieved the Treble under Jose Mourinho. — Francesco Porzio

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal

Player to watch: Jurrien Timber, Arsenal – While William Saliba received well-deserved praise for Arsenal`s solid defense in the first leg, Timber`s contribution at right back was equally crucial. If Timber can again neutralize Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior`s attacking threats, Real Madrid may struggle to overcome their three-goal deficit. — James Benge

Man of the match: Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid – Vinicius Jr. needs to perform at his peak for Real Madrid to have any hope of a comeback against Arsenal following their 3-0 first-leg defeat. Vinicius, anticipated to form an attacking trio with Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe, has already scored seven Champions League goals this season. However, a loss to Arsenal would be a significant career setback. — Francesco Porzio

Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 0 – If any team can mount a comeback against Arsenal, it`s Real Madrid. However, this task appears particularly challenging for Carlo Ancelotti`s side due to injuries forcing key players into unfamiliar roles. Nevertheless, at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Real Madrid, anything is possible. — Francesco Porzio

Quarterfinal TV schedule