The Champions League Knockout Stage Begins: A Preview of the Upcoming Matches
The teams that finished the new group stage format of the Champions League in standings places #9 through #24 have their knockout stage ties over the next two weeks. The first four ties will be played on Tuesday, the remaining four on Wednesday, and then the second legs will be played the following week.
PSG vs. Brest
This rare domestic matchup in the Champions League sees Ligue 1 leaders PSG heavy favorites against underdog Brest. PSG dominated their recent league meeting 5-2 and must maintain focus to maintain their advantage. With the addition of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli and the in-form Ousmane Dembele, PSG will look to pile on the goals and make the second leg a formality. Prediction: PSG 3-0 Brest
Borussia Dortmund vs. Sporting CP
Defending finalists Dortmund travel to face Sporting CP, who have a puncher’s chance of making the second leg competitive. Sporting’s European form has been a challenge, but they lead the Portuguese Liga and will look to capitalize on Dortmund’s poor Bundesliga form. With the fitness of star striker Viktor Gyokeres and veteran leadership from Marcel Sabitzer, a draw could be on the cards. Prediction: 1-1 Draw
Juventus host the Dutch champions PSV, who are missing key USMNT talents Malik Tillman and Ricardo Pepi. Juventus, sitting 5th in Serie A, have been bolstered by the loan signing of Randal Kolo Muani from PSG, and their defensive stability should see them through. **Prediction: Juventus 2-0 PSV**
The highlight of Tuesday’s matches is the last two winners of the Champions League facing off, as 2024 Champions Real Madrid travel to Manchester to face the 2023 Champions, Manchester City. Both teams dream of making yet another Champions League final, but this draw ultimately means that one will be sent home in the first knockout phase.
Manchester City sit 5th in the Premier League and are fighting for their place in next year’s Champions League, while Real Madrid is scrambling defensively due to injuries. With Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal out for the Spanish giants, Manchester City will look to heap the pressure on and build a lead in the first leg.
However, Carlo Ancelotti has been able to absorb pressure against Pep’s sides in recent years, and though they will bend, I don’t think Manchester City can break Real Madrid in the first leg. Prediction: 3-3 Draw
In conclusion, the upcoming Champions League knockout stage ties promise to be thrilling encounters. With the last two winners of the competition facing off, domestic rivals clashing, and underdogs looking to upset the favorites, it’s sure to be a captivating couple of weeks for soccer fans around the world.
Remember to keep an eye out for the second leg matches, as the teams look to secure their place in the quarterfinals of Europe’s premier club competition.
