The UEFA Champions League 2024/25 season has reached its thrilling knockout stage, with the round of 16 first legs set to deliver top-tier European football action. The top eight teams from the league phase enter the fray, with heavyweight clashes and potential upsets on the cards.
Real Madrid vs Atlético de Madrid: The Spanish Capital Derby
One of the standout fixtures of the round sees Real Madrid host city rivals Atlético de Madrid. These two teams have a storied history in the competition, having faced off in two Champions League finals (2014, 2016) and several knockout stage battles. With both La Liga meetings this season ending in 1-1 draws, fans can expect a tightly contested tie. Real Madrid, buoyed by their recent knockout phase play-off win against Manchester City, will look to assert dominance. However, Diego Simeone’s Atlético, fresh off victories against PSG and Leverkusen, are no strangers to big European nights.
Key Fact: Real Madrid have lost only five of 23 encounters with Spanish clubs in UEFA competition (W12 D6), while Atlético have a strong record of W9 D5 L7 against Spanish teams.
Club Brugge vs Aston Villa: Can Villa Turn the Tide?
The action kicks off early on Tuesday, March 4, with Club Brugge hosting Aston Villa at 18:45 CET. Brugge secured a 1-0 victory over Villa in the league phase, courtesy of Hans Vanaken’s penalty. Villa, under Unai Emery, are determined to avoid a repeat of that result. Having only lost once more on their way to a top-eight finish, Villa’s knockout phase play-off triumph against Atalanta will boost their confidence.
Did You Know? Club Brugge have only won 7 of their 30 UEFA matches against English clubs (D5 L18).
PSV vs Arsenal: The Gunners’ Chance for Redemption
Arsenal visit PSV, a team that has already toppled English opposition this season by defeating Liverpool. PSV’s resilience in their play-off against Juventus was remarkable, with Ryan Flamingo scoring the extra-time winner. Arsenal will need to replicate their defensive strength from their 4-0 win against PSV last season to secure a positive result.
Fun Fact: Arsenal have won 4 of their 10 previous meetings with PSV in UEFA competitions (D4 L2).
Borussia Dortmund vs Lille: Guirassy vs David
Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy has been in sensational form, leading the Champions League scoring charts. They face Lille, who have defeated Real Madrid, Atleti, and Feyenoord in the league phase. This clash promises to be a battle of strikers, with Lille’s Jonathan David also proving his prowess in front of goal.
Wednesday, March 5: More Blockbusters
- Feyenoord vs Inter (18:45 CET): Feyenoord, under the new leadership of Robin van Persie, look to overcome a defensively solid Inter side.
- Paris Saint-Germain vs Liverpool: PSG demolished Brest 10-0 on aggregate in the play-offs but face their toughest test yet against Liverpool, who have only lost once this season.
- Bayern München vs Leverkusen: An all-German tie with a historic twist. Bayern’s Harry Kane continues to break records, but Leverkusen’s recent form against Bayern gives them hope.
- Benfica vs Barcelona: Their league phase match finished 5-4 in Barcelona’s favor. This fixture is likely to bring more goals and drama, with Robert Lewandowski a constant threat to Benfica’s defense.
Conclusion: High Stakes and High Drama
With so much at stake, the first legs of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 promise excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for all the action and analysis as Europe’s best clubs vie for a place in the quarter-finals.
