Our football pundit previews the thrilling UEFA Champions League last 16 clashes set for Tuesday 13 February and Wednesday 14 February 2018. Get ready for the knockout excitement!
The business end of Europe’s most elite football competition is finally upon us! Only 16 top teams remain in the UEFA Champions League, battling for glory with eight spots up for grabs to proceed to the next round, while the rest will exit European competitions for the season.
This week promises four electrifying matches. Reigning champions Real Madrid face off against French giants Paris Saint-Germain in a highly anticipated showdown. Before that, Juventus will host Tottenham Hotspur in a clash expected to deliver immense excitement. Meanwhile, favourites Manchester City travel to face Basel, and two-time winners FC Porto will meet the formidable Liverpool squad.
Tuesday 13 February
Juventus 9/10
Draw 23/10
Tottenham 33/10
Though Juventus stumbled in the group stages, they have a proven track record in big matches, reaching two of the last three finals. Facing Tottenham at Juventus Stadium presents a huge test. Mauricio Pochettino’s team topped their group and, with the striking prowess of Harry Kane, are keen to cause an upset.
Tottenham’s travels are as solid as Juventus’ home front, having gained seven points against tough opponents including Real Madrid. A closely fought match is forecast, but backing Juventus on the Win/Draw Double Chance & Under 2.5 Goals at 19/20 is a smart play.
FC Basel 13/2
Draw 38/10
Manchester City 7/20
Basel host Manchester City at St. Jakob Park for their first ever meeting. While Basel have previously stunned a Manchester giant, they face a tough task against Pep Guardiola’s squad aiming for the quadruple. With Kevin De Bruyne in top form, City are favourites to win their maiden Champions League trophy. Betting on Man City to score first and win at 5/10 is a confident choice.
Wednesday 14 February
FC Porto 13/2
Draw 38/10
Liverpool 7/20
Porto and Liverpool meet for the fifth time, with Liverpool dominating past encounters. Porto, second in Group G, recently thrashed Leicester City 5-0. Liverpool, despite sceptics doubting them without Coutinho, pose a threat through Firmino, Mane, and Salah. A draw at 47/20 looks appealing, but the Both Teams to Score bet at 6/10 offers a safer route.
Real Madrid 13/10
Draw 26/10
Paris Saint-Germain 7/4
The fortnight’s thrilling action ends with Real Madrid vs PSG. PSG broke records by netting 25 goals in the group stage, travelling to face Cristiano Ronaldo, top scorer with nine goals. Both defences face stiff challenges. Real Madrid, seeking a third consecutive title, are unbeaten at home for 17 matches. Despite Neymar’s threat, backing Real Madrid to Win & Both Teams to Score at 9/4 is a solid call.
QUAD @ 14/1
- Juventus Win/Draw & Under 2.5 Goals 19/20
- Man City Score First & Win 5/10
- Porto vs Liverpool Both Teams to Score 6/10
- Real Madrid Win & Both Teams to Score 9/4
