With the Champions League quarterfinals about to kick off, our CricketSoccer writers make their predictions. And it’s bad news for Real Madrid
Paco Polit
There’s no way that an outsider (Leicester or Monaco, for example) will surprise everyone by winning the UCL this year. Therefore, the usual suspects are to be chosen from the two top quarterfinals: Barça vs Juventus and Real Madrid vs Bayern. Spanish teams have a slight edge if we look back these past three seasons, so once again (and lest not forget Atlético), unpredictable Barcelona and boring but effective Real seem to be the favourite sides to conquer the trophy. A final between those two would be sensational.
Prediction – Barcelona
Vieri Capretta
It would be easy to say Bayern Munich, Real Madrid or Barcelona, and rightly so. But under the radar, as they are accustomed to, there is another club who have everything to go all the way: Atletico Madrid. Two finals in three seasons and the solidity of a group that’s been together for years. This could be their year.
Prediction – Atletico Madrid
BrazilStats
The best team on paper doesn’t always win in a knockout competition, as several factors often make a difference. But Bayern seem to be the most balanced side, and having the best manager in the world in Carlo Ancelotti, certainly raises their odds furthermore.
Prediction – Bayern Munich
Peter Coates
With their defence of La Liga dwindling, Barcelona will be throwing all they have at the Champions League, and they still have a lot. MSN remain the most fearsome attack in world football and provided the three are fit, Luis Enrique’s side can never be counted out. Juventus will provide a stern test in the quarter finals but after the miracle against PSG, Barca are capable of anything.
Prediction – Barcelona
David Kraakman
The always present Bayern Munich have been unlucky under the reign of Pep Guardiola, being knocked out in the semi-finals for three consecutive season between 2014 and 2016. This time around, under Carlo Ancelotti and with an in-form Robert Lewandowski up front, I back the German heavyweights to break this trend and go all the way.
Prediction – Bayern Munich
