Champions League Predictions (10/03/09)

Bayern Munich vs Sporting

This tie is as good as over and Sporting have little left to play for but pride. They might not even get that though as the ever-impressive Bayern take a five away goal lead to the Allianz arena. Expect Klinsmann to rest two or three of the top talents and expect Paulo Bento's Sporting to be aggressive from the outset. I said it last time and I'll say it again : expect goals.

Prediction
2:2 (7:2 agg.)
Bayern go through

Juventus vs Chelsea

Claudio Ranieri has called upon Juve's supporters to "intimidate Chelsea" in what could be the to-the-wire game of the round. Chelsea were more than matched by the Italian giants at Stamford Bridge but were fortunate to avoid conceding an all important away goal. Juventus will certainly be favourites on the night but one goal could but the Londoners through.

Prediction
2:1 (2:2 agg.)
Chelsea go through on away goals

Panathinaikos vs Villareal

Possibly the least appealing game to the UK audience - though lovers of old school football may like what they see. This will either break out into a frenzy or slip into a tactical chess style game-play. Panathinaikos' away goals gives the underdogs hope but I can't help thinking Villareal's individual qualities will shine through.

Prediction
0:2 (1:3 agg.)
Villareal go through

Liverpool vs Real Madrid

The tie of the night - on paper. Two of the greatest sides in the competition's history (with one notable big red exclusion) clash in front of the Anfield anything-can-happen crowd with the (slight) underdogs holding a one (away) goal advantage. That away goal could be the key. Liverpool are very hard to beat at home, especially if they make it "one of those European nights" - and that's what Madrid have to do. A draw is no good. The reverse side of the coin says Real may come up against the same Liverpool that deploy two holding midfielders from the offset and is (tentatively) accused of "hoofing" the ball. If that Liverpool turn up (the one that drew at home with Everton, Man City, West Ham and Hull), Madrid will have a field day.

Prediction
0:2 (1:2 agg.)
Real Madrid go through