The UEFA Champions League is back this week with the quarterfinal stage, where Europe`s elite teams will compete for the continent`s top club honor.
Current champions Real Madrid are aiming for their 16th title and will face Arsenal, who are hoping to reach the semifinals for the first time in almost two decades. Real Madrid is one of three teams, including Barcelona, still in contention for a treble. They will begin their quarterfinal match against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
Inter Milan is also in the running for a treble and will play against Bayern Munich in a rematch of the 2010 final, which Inter won. This classic European matchup will highlight the strength of the teams vying for a semifinal spot. Paris Saint-Germain, considered the most exciting team after defeating Liverpool, and Aston Villa, enjoying a remarkable run in their first Champions League season in forty years, complete the quarterfinal lineup.
Champions League Quarterfinals Matchups
Bayern Munich vs. Inter
Player to watch: Leroy Sane – When Sane is at his best, he is a crucial player for Bayern. With his contract nearing expiration, this could be his last Champions League home game, making it a significant opportunity for him to shine. — James Benge
Man of the match: Lautaro Martinez – Inter remains a top team in Europe, and their captain, Lautaro Martinez, is key. After recovering from injury, he played in Inter`s recent draw and is expected to start again. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Bayern Munich 0, Inter 1 – While both teams are strong, Inter`s consistency, especially defensively, makes them a difficult opponent for Bayern, who have been inconsistent and have injuries. Harry Kane`s efforts might not be enough against Inter`s solid defense. — Pardeep Cattry
Best bet: Under 2.5 goals scored (-110) – Inter matches often prioritize defense, and this game in Germany is expected to be similar. First legs of these ties are usually tight, suggesting a low-scoring game. — Chuck Booth
Arsenal vs. Real Madrid
Player to watch: Martin Odegaard – Facing his former team, Odegaard hasn`t been in top form recently due to an ankle injury. This quarterfinal is a perfect occasion for him to regain his best form. — James Benge
Man of the match: Kylian Mbappe – Mbappe is anticipated to have a significant impact in London. Having already equaled Cristiano Ronaldo`s goal count in his first Real Madrid season, another goal here could be historic. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Arsenal 1, Real Madrid 2 – Despite Arsenal`s strong Champions League season, injuries, particularly to Gabriel, weaken their defense against Real Madrid. Real Madrid tends to secure results even when not playing perfectly, making them hard to dismiss. — Pardeep Cattry
Best bet: Real Madrid to win (+220) – Despite Real Madrid`s La Liga struggles, Arsenal`s defensive injuries give Real Madrid an edge in this matchup. At these odds, backing Real Madrid is a good bet. — Chuck Booth
PSG vs. Aston Villa
Player to watch: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Kvaratskhelia`s addition has significantly elevated PSG`s Champions League prospects, turning them into serious contenders. His unpredictable play enhances PSG`s attack. — James Benge
Man of the match: Vitinha – Vitinha is an underrated but crucial player for PSG. His strong performances often lead to PSG victories. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Paris Saint-Germain 2, Aston Villa 1 – With the Ligue 1 title secured, PSG can fully focus on the Champions League. After overcoming Liverpool, they are expected to live up to expectations against Villa, though Villa can keep it competitive. — Pardeep Cattry
Best bet: Ousmane Dembele to score (+125) – Playing at home, PSG will aim for a fast start, and Dembele`s excellent scoring form makes him a prime candidate to score early in the game. Aston Villa`s defense might struggle against PSG`s attack, allowing Dembele scoring opportunities. — Chuck Booth
Barcelona vs. Dortmund
Player to watch: Maximilian Beier – Beier, in great form for Dortmund, with recent goals and assists, could be a threat to Barcelona`s defense in a potentially transitional game. — James Benge
Man of the match: Raphinha – Raphinha, usually a top performer, needs to rebound after a quieter game. Champions League is the perfect stage for him to respond strongly. — Francesco Porzio
Prediction: Barcelona 3, Borussia Dortmund 1 – This matchup seems like the most uneven quarterfinal given the teams` current forms. Barcelona`s strong attack, led by Lewandowski and Yamal, should be too much, though Dortmund might score. — Pardeep Cattry
Best bet: Raphinha to have 2+ shots on target (-105) – Champions League is where top players perform, and Raphinha is expected to step up for Barcelona. Dortmund`s defense will be tested by Raphinha`s ability to shoot from various positions. — Chuck Booth
