We saw big clubs like FC Barcelona, Dortmund and Atlanta getting eliminated in the group stage of the competition. Makes everyone wonder what will happen in the later stages. As the Round of 16 begins in less than a month there are few interesting ties to watch out for. Just like the past years this edition also promises to deliver exciting matches.
From a neutral point of view, many football fans were excited after the draws made in December. Some of the ties are worth watching as they promise to deliver high drama. We will focus on a few ties where big clubs go head to head.
PSG vs R. Madrid
PSG will face the European giants Real Madrid. Madrid have won the competition 13 times. Lionel Messi will be in front of Madrid in different colours for the first time in almost two decades. Both the teams have met each other six times in the competition and Madrid have the upper hand by winning 3 matches. PSG have only won once and the other 2 matches ended in draws.
With the current side PSG will look to change the scenario as they have the most powerful attack in the whole of Europe. Real Madrid looks ready for them as their attack and defence are on top form. Real Madrid also topped their group whilst PSG were second in their group below Man City.
Inter vs Liverpool
Liverpool going against an Italian club is always exciting. Inter look very promising this season as they are at the top of Serie A. Liverpool also are in a good run with the help of world-class players. Both teams have met 4 times in the competition, Liverpool have dominated the tie by winning 3 matches while Inter managed to win 1. Liverpool were the toppers of their group while Inter finished 2nd behind Juventus.
Inter did not manage to go past the group stages last season. This reflects in their performance this time. Liverpool was eliminated in quarters last time by Real Madrid. Although Liverpool looks the stronger side in this tie, it will be very early to predict the winner looking at the recent performances. This season both teams started well and will like to finish on the same high.
Man United vs AT. Madrid
The Red Devils will go up against the red side of Madrid. This means Atletico Madrid will have to face one of their worst nightmares CR7. Ronaldo has come up clutch against them in this competition whilst being in two different teams R. Madrid and Juventus. A. Madrid have faced difficulties in going past Ronaldo’s side in recent years. United have struggled to maintain pace with the other teams in their domestic league but have topped their group in the competition.
This will be the first time in the history of this competition both the teams will go head to head. This tie promises to be exciting in many ways as the young attack of United which will have the support of Ronaldo goes against the side who are very good in both attack and defence.