The Champions League is back, and fans around the world are eagerly anticipating some of the most exciting fixtures in European football. The draw has left us with some intriguing match-ups, but perhaps none more so than Real Madrid vs. Manchester City and Inter vs. AC Milan. Both fixtures look set to be tightly contested affairs, so let’s take a closer look at the picks, predictions, and odds.
Real Madrid vs. Manchester City:
This tie is full of intriguing subplots, not least the fact that former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola will be taking on his old nemesis, Real Madrid. The two teams have met several times in recent years, with Real getting the better of City in a crucial knockout tie in 2016. However, this is a very different City side, and they come into this game as favorites with many bookmakers.
Real Madrid have been in decent form of late, winning five of their last six games, but they have struggled for consistency this season. Key players like Eden Hazard and Sergio Ramos have been in and out of the team due to injury, and there are question marks over their defense. City, on the other hand, are in red-hot form, having won their last 17 games in all competitions. Their attack is arguably the best in Europe, with players like Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, and Phil Foden in fine form.
Prediction:
Despite Real’s pedigree in this competition, City look like the better team on paper and should have enough to edge this tie. We’re going for a 2-1 win for Guardiola’s men.
Odds:
Real Madrid – 21/10
Draw – 12/5
Manchester City – 13/10
Inter vs. AC Milan:
The Milan derby is always one of the most hotly-contested fixtures in Serie A, but it takes on extra significance in the Champions League. This is the first time these two teams have met in European competition since the 2006/07 season, and both will be desperate to come out on top.
Inter have been in decent form this season, sitting second in Serie A, four points behind leaders AC Milan. They have a solid defense, with star centre-back Milan Skriniar forming a formidable partnership with Stefan de Vrij. Up front, they have the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez, two of the most feared strikers in Europe.
AC Milan, meanwhile, have been the surprise package of the season, playing some scintillating football under the guidance of Stefano Pioli. They sit top of Serie A and have been particularly impressive going forward, with the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Rafael Leao causing havoc in opposition defenses.
Prediction:
This is a tough one to call, as both sides are so evenly matched. We’ll go for a 1-1 draw, with both teams scoring.
Odds:
Inter – 7/5
Draw – 12/5
AC Milan – 2/1
Overall, these two fixtures promise to be some of the most exciting in the Champions League this season. Real Madrid vs. Manchester City is a battle between two of Europe’s biggest clubs, while Inter vs. AC Milan is a clash between two teams in top form. Whatever happens, we’re in for a treat.
