Champions League Wednesday: Who Stays Hot, Who Slips?
Union Saint-Gilloise vs Newcastle United
Union SG are unbeaten in their last seven European home games and are just two goals away from hitting the 50-goal milestone in UEFA competitions. Newcastle, on the other hand, have gone five Champions League matches without a win and have only one victory from their last 11 European away trips. This feels like a tight clash where Union’s strong home form could make the difference.
Prediction: 1-1 draw or narrow home win.
Qarabağ vs Copenhagen
Qarabağ have taken six wins from seven European games this season and haven’t seen a 0-0 in their last 43 matches. Copenhagen are unbeaten in Europe this season but carry a poor away record in the Champions League. Expect both sides to attack and create chances.
Prediction: Qarabağ 2-1.
Arsenal vs Olympiacos
Arsenal have been unstoppable at home in Europe, winning 13 straight group games with ten clean sheets in a row. Olympiacos have lost their last ten Champions League away matches, and history doesn’t look on their side here.
Prediction: Arsenal 1-0.
Leverkusen vs PSV
Leverkusen are in superb home form, unbeaten in their last seven European games on their own turf. PSV have just one win from 20 away games in Germany and often struggle on the road. With their quality midfield and attack, Leverkusen look ready to extend their streak.
Prediction: Leverkusen 2-0.
Villarreal vs Juventus
Villarreal knocked Juventus out in 2022 and rarely lose at home to Italian sides. Juventus have been solid against Spanish clubs but aren’t always convincing in group play. This one has the makings of a balanced contest, but Villarreal’s attacking edge could swing it.
Prediction: Villarreal 2-1.
Napoli vs Sporting CP
Napoli have lost just four of their last 30 Champions League home fixtures, and they’ve beaten Portuguese opponents in their last four meetings. Sporting CP have never won away to an Italian club in Europe. Everything points to another Napoli win.
Prediction: Napoli 3-1.
Monaco vs Manchester City
Monaco famously knocked out City in 2017 and have been strong at home against English sides since. City have lost four straight away matches in the Champions League, but with Erling Haaland chasing records, they always carry a threat. This could be a goal-filled thriller.
Prediction: Monaco 2-1.
Borussia Dortmund vs Athletic Club Bilbao
Dortmund have lost just one of their last 18 Champions League home games. Athletic are unbeaten in recent encounters with German teams but come into this after three straight European defeats. Dortmund’s home strength should see them through.
Prediction: Dortmund 2-1.
Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain
Barcelona have dominated most recent Champions League group games, but PSG have won big on their last two trips to the Camp Nou. Both teams are scoring for fun and this promises fireworks.
Prediction: 2-2 draw.
