Champions League Round of 16 Preview: Week 1

It’s felt like an eternity, but the Champion’s League has finally returned. With the Round of 16 kicking off, we take a look into each Week 1 matchup and what to expect.

PSG vs Real Madrid

Outlook: Probably the most interesting matchup in this round. Both teams coming in in good form. Mbappe vs his probable future team will be interesting story.

Top Goal Scorer: Messi – Loves playing Madrid and is slowly picking up his form. Will get a few.

Surprise Performance: Vinicius – Has always been heralded as a future star but hasn’t really hit that peak yet. Now’s his time to shine.

Result: PSG (4-3)

Sporting CP vs Manchester City

Outlook: Man City have been the hottest team in Europe and draw a favorable matchup here against an inferior opponent. Sporting have been a decent side this year but are just too outclassed.

Top Goal Scorer: Riyad Mahrez – loves playing in the champions league and should return a large amount of chances.

Surprise Performance: Pablo Sarabia – Hard to pick anyone from City since they’ve been so good. The Spanish Midfielder should be one of the glaring lights for Sporting in this one.

Result: Manchester City (7-1)

Salzburg vs Bayern Munich

Outlook: The Powerhouse of Bayern get a light draw coming out of the gate here against Salzburg. Salzburg attacking style could keep this one close, but they will need a lot to keep up with one of the most consistent sides in Europe.

Top Goal Scorer: Robert Lewandowski – Don’t overthink it. Take the best striker in the world (yes) against a worse opponent.

Surprise Performance: Brendan Aaronson – The American has been solid this campaign, and he’ll get a chance to put his full potential on this display.

Result: Bayern Munich (5-2)

Inter Milan vs Liverpool

Outlook: An AFCON stricken Liverpool side finally returns to full in time for their Champions League clash against Inter. Both teams come in in decent form and could see this one go to the death.

Top Goal Scorer: Mohammed Salah – Played well in AFCON and loves the Champions League lights. Should use his pace to his advantage.

Surprise Performance: Naby Keita – Was forced into a bigger role with Salah and Mane away at AFCON and made the most of it. Could finally be catching the form he once had at Leipzig

Result: Liverpool (3-1)