Takeaways From This Week’s Champions League Round of 16 Matches
The first half of the Round of 16 games in the Champions League has left an impressive mark on fans. This sets up great storylines for potential comebacks and shocks. The first games were full of quality play and shocking results; here are my takeaways from the results.
Real Madrid vs Liverpool
To say the least, this match was a classic! I was amazed by how this game turned around. Liverpool had one of the biggest advantages going up 2-0 Anfield. Having blown their lead, they lost to Madrid 5-2. Madrid went on a tear led by Vinicius Jr and Karim Benzema.
Vinicius Jr is truly a superstar. He is the youngest player to score in every round of the Champions League and is playing at a world-class level. This Madrid team is very clutch and just showed they can go back-to-back to win it all again.
Manchester City vs Leipzig
A disappointing draw for Manchester City will need them to win at home in the next match. Riyad Mahrez’s early goal wasn’t enough for City to hold on to. Star Forward Erling Haaland had a rather disappointing game. The city does need to rely on his scoring ability in order to win their Champions League matches.
The Croatian star defender Joško Gvardiol scored in the 70th minute for Leipzig. Gvardiol proved why he has a release clause of over $120 million. Teams in England have already been trying to work a deal for the Summer.
Manchester City is still the favorite to win it all at +200. With a performance that Real Madrid had and City drawing with Leipzig, Madrid is only +600 to win the title.
Napoli vs Frankfurt
Napoli showed again why they are one of the hottest teams in Europe. A win in Frankfurt should help this talented side close out their next game at home. After a missed penalty, Victor Osimhen brought his team to life with a goal. Napoli ended up winning 2-0.
Victor Osimhen is proving to be a superstar in the Italian league and Europe. It’s very likely clubs abroad will try to purchase the star, Striker. Napoli will set a very high price tag, upwards of a minimum of $110 million.
Napoli is currently -5000 to win the Italian League this season! They have been the most surprising team of this season, no doubt. They are bound to make an impressive run for the rest of the Champions League, showing they can play at such a high level.
Inter Milan vs Porto
Inter had a late win at the San Siro to give them an advantage in Portugal. Romelu Lukaku was surprisingly the hero that Inter needed in the 86th minute. Lukaku, who has been on a playing downfall, helped revive his form. Coming on as a substitute, Lukaku was on the bench for apparently being “overweight,” according to Inter CEO Beppe Marotta.
Inter has struggled to get past the Round of 16 since 2011. This long drought could come to an end if they can hold on.
