One of the strongest quarter-final stages ever in the Champions League pairs two Spain v Italy contests and an all England-affair to predict
Juventus – Real Madrid
In the last round we saw one modern European rivalry franchise have another sequel as Barcelona took on Chelsea, and once again the quarter-final draw has provided fans with another tie between two familiar teams in the Champions League latter stages. Reigning national champions Juventus and Real Madrid are meeting in a double-header that means a lot to both sides.
??⚽ Training in Turin. Now for the main event…#APorLa13 pic.twitter.com/6s0pYFFInf
— Real Madrid C.F. ???? (@realmadriden) April 3, 2018
Over the past three seasons, the sides have also collided with either team having the better of each other at least once. It’s fair to say that Real Madrid’s victory, coming last May, was of significantly more importance, though, as it resulted in the Spanish team lifting the trophy for a second time in a row. Juventus will feel more determined than ever to take revenge this time around and go all the way to finally grab the Champions League again after two lost finals since 2014.
Team to go through: Real Madrid
Sevilla – Bayern Munich
In recent years we have grown accustomed to seeing three Spanish outfits in the best eight of the continent. This campaign is no exception, but instead of Atlético Madrid, it’s Europa League specialists Sevilla who have joined up with the ever-present European powerhouses.
?♂️?♂️?♂️ #SFCFCB #packmas pic.twitter.com/X1WIwTk8ft
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) April 2, 2018
Bayern Munich will be their opponents and the Germans are officially back again after the appointment of legendary manager Jupp Heynckes. However, Sevilla have proven to be capable of knocking out the big guns, having eliminated Manchester United in the last round although Bayern are even a level above the Red Devils at the moment.
Team to go through: Bayern Munich
Barcelona – AS Roma
To reach the quarter-finals at all is an accomplishment for a club like AS Roma, who haven’t had the best time in Europe in recent years. Unfortunately for the Italian side, it very much looks like their run will end at this stage as they have been paired up with one of the favourites to win the competition, Barcelona.
Leo #Messi vs Italian clubs:
1️⃣9️⃣ games
1️⃣2️⃣ goals
Check them out! ?https://t.co/u0xJOkoZEh— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 3, 2018
Nine points clear in the league and in the final of the Copa del Rey final, the Blaugranas have set their sights on the treble with the magnificent duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez leading the way. And, honestly, who can bet against greatness?
Team to go through: Barcelona
Liverpool – Manchester City
In what is probably the most exciting game of the round, English heavyweights Liverpool face Manchester City. Both sides have been a guarantee for goals and exciting football with Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola being the masterminds behind it all.
"What a finish. On the half-volley. Stevie G." ?@Alex_OxChambo, with help from Mane and Firmino, attempts to recreate a Steven Gerrard @ChampionsLeague classic with @btsport. #GoalsRecreated pic.twitter.com/79U6U6K4Wg
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 2, 2018
While Liverpool are real outsiders to win the Champions League, Manchester City are seen as a favourite due to their record-breaking season. Liverpool, with the magical Mohamed Salah, can win against any team in the world on their day, so are a real threat to The Citizens.
Team to go through: Manchester City