The Champions League is back
Europe's elite club competition generates a lot of frenzy world over, and Nigerians are not left out of the fun. It has become commonplace to see soccer fans troop out en masse to viewing centres to catch a glimpse of their favorite football teams. That trend is bound to be sustained as the Champions League makes a return with the round of 16 fixtures to be between 13th of February and 14th of March. So, we take a look at the interesting matchups that will involve some of Europe's best clubs.
Basel FC Vs Manchester City
Manchester City is a team that is on fire at the moment, and this (form) is expected to be taken into the game against Basel. The Swiss club may not be pundits' favorite to progress against the EPL side but as it is in football; never say never as anything can happen. The first leg comes up on February 13 while the second leg will be at the Etihad stadium on March 7.
Juventus Vs Tottenham
Losing finalists in the 2016/2017 Champions League, Juventus go into the game against Tottenham with the hope of having a go at the trophy on one more occasion. However, they will be up against a Tottenham side that have already created some sort of upset by defeating Real Madrid- and subsequently emerging as group winners. Tottenham Hotspur will be out to prove a point that their group stage feat was no fluke.
FC Porto Vs Liverpool
As long as this contest is concerned, both teams will fancy their chances of upstaging one another for a place in the quarterfinal stage. This is one game that is poised to be a thriller and could be decided by the little details in between. Though Liverpool have been very prolific in front of goal but their defense line has often let them down- this is something Porto's coach, Sergio Conceição, would have been well aware of. First leg comes up on February 14 and the return leg is billed for March 6.
Real Madrid Vs PSG
This is obviously the most anticipated game of the round of 16 and that is informed by the array of stars that will be paraded on both sides plus the prize that is at stake. Going by their high profile standard, Real Madrid have not had the best of season thus far as they are currently struggling to replicate the form that saw them claim the domestic league title and the Champions League trophy last season. And with the La Liga nearly [and/or realistically] slipping out of their grip already, the team will be raring to defend the Champions League title- and probably aim to claim the trophy for an unprecedented third time- but then PSG and Neymar await.
Bayern Munich Vs Besiktas
Bayern Munich is on a roller coaster in the Bundesliga and it remains to be seen how well that will be translated into the match against Besiktas- a team that has thus far proven to know how to hold its line against some of Europe's top teams. Jupp Heynckes' men will be up against a well drilled Besiktas side that is yet to lose a match in the Champions League this season. First leg is at the Allianz Arena on February 20 while the second leg comes up on the 14th of March.
Chelsea Vs Barcelona
Here is another game football fans will be looking forward to with great expectations. Considering Chelsea's present struggles, one may be tempted to give this to Barcelona but writing Chelsea off could be at the Catalan's peril. Plus the world will be watching whether the little magician, Lionel Messi will find find the back of the net against the Blues.
Sevilla Vs Manchester United
The rivalry between EPL sides and La Liga sides continues as Sevilla welcome Manchester United to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán for the first leg fixture on the 21st of February while the second leg is scheduled for the 13th of March.
Shakhtar Donetsk Vs AS Roma
It's been a 'fairytale' run for Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League this season. The Ukrainian side beat Napoli to the second spot- coming behind Manchester City- and they will be jostling for a spot in the quarter-final against another Serie A side, AS Roma who have also had their fair of Champions League bliss this season.