English clubs will certainly have their work cut out for them following catastrophic displays in the first round of the knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League.
Newcastle, Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City all failed to register a victory last week. Bolanews highlights the five talking points as the teams are set to take center stage, along with some betting insights for the daring punter.
5.) NEWCASTLE DARE TO DREAM AT THE CAMP NOU
Newcastle were on the verge of a famous victory against five-time UEFA Champions League winners FC Barcelona but were forced to settle for a draw after conceding a last-minute penalty which Lamine Yamal coolly dispatched.
There is no doubt that Newcastle can pull off a surprise at Barcelona’s home, looking at how they kept their opponents at bay for the majority of the first leg. Their victory against Chelsea over the weekend will certainly act as a morale booster.
Betting Tip: Consider a draw or Newcastle win double chance at Camp Nou; over 2.5 goals could also pay off given both sides’ attacking quality.
4.) TOTTENHAM’S MISSION IS CERTAINLY IMPOSSIBLE
There is no doubt that Tottenham’s campaign has been a replica of last season. They are struggling in the Premier League while their participation in Europe’s most prized club competition hangs in the balance. Atlético Madrid certainly have one foot in the knockout phase following their resounding 5-1 demolition of Tottenham.
It would take an enormous lapse in concentration for Tottenham to secure a place in the last 8.
Betting Tip: Tottenham to score under 1.5 goals, Atlético to win both halves or full-time, and consider a handicap bet in favor of Atlético.
3.) CHELSEA SKATING ON THIN ICE
The Blues have a huge task against Paris Saint-Germain after losing 5-2 in the first leg. A game at Stamford Bridge provides them with a chance to maximize home advantage, but will they stamp authority at home? PSG, as defending champions, should be keen on securing their spot in the next round.
Betting Tip: PSG to win or draw (double chance), both teams to score, and consider betting on over 3 goals given Chelsea’s need to attack aggressively.
2.) ARTETA’S MEN NEED TO DO BETTER
Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Bayer 04 Leverkusen, with Kai Havertz scoring the leveller. Arsenal finished top of the league phase but were lackluster up front.
The second leg at the Emirates will certainly produce fireworks for a team gunning for the quadruple.
Betting Tip: Arsenal to win at home, both teams to score, and consider Arsenal -1 handicap for a safer bet.
1.) CITY IN UNCHARTED WATERS
Manchester City were a shadow of themselves against Real Madrid CF. Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick to give Los Blancos a healthy advantage going into the second leg at the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola’s men will need a near-perfect performance at home to secure a place in the last 8. The fixture promises a mouth-watering encounter.
Betting Tip: Consider over 2.5 goals, Manchester City to win with exact score 3-1 or 3-2, and a both teams to score bet could be rewarding given City’s attacking firepower.
