All the focus has now shifted to the knockout stages of the Champions League. Here are some highlights from the round of 16 draw.
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The UEFA Champions League group stages 2022/23 got over less than a week ago and already the focus has shifted to the knockout stages. On Monday, following the regular procedures, the draw was made in Zurich, Switzerland. Fans and predictors were already involved in predicting the ties and now the clubs have a little over three months to prepare for the round of 16.
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The repeat of last year’s final involving Real Madrid and Liverpool, along with the matchup between 2020 finalists, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain were undoubtedly the pick of the fixtures. Elsewhere, English champions, Manchester City will be taking on German powerhouse, RB Leipzig. The second most successful team in the competition’s history, AC Milan will be entertaining Tottenham Hotspur in another exciting matchup. Here are some highlights from the draw.
In another episode of what has become a thrilling rivalry in recent seasons, defending champions, Real Madrid will be playing against Liverpool in the round of 16. The Spanish side are the favourites to advance, having had the edge over the Merseyside club in recent matches. Along with this, the second leg of the tie will be played in the Santiago Bernabeu, a situation which greatly supported the record holders last season. Nevertheless, it promises to be a thrilling encounter with great players on both teams and led by two incredible masterminds in Carlo Ancelotti and Jurgen Klopp.
Paris Saint-Germain, after all the heavy investments and recruits have still failed to make an impact in the Champions League. Last year, they badly capitulated against Real Madrid and this time around they’ll have to face another stern test in Bayern Munich. Only time will tell if PSG pay a heavy price for finishing second in their group after Benfica overtook them on the final matchday. The dream of Paris’ owners to win the Champions League faces a huge hurdle in the form of Bayern Munich, who will certainly fancy their chances to eliminate the French side.
English midfielder, Jude Bellingham is arguably the hottest property in the world right now. The talented prodigy has caught the eyes of many top clubs in recent months. According to reports, next season will see a huge race between them to capture Bellingham’s signature. His side, Borussia Dortmund face Chelsea in the round of 16 and this will certainly be a stage for him to impress the clubs targeting including the likes of Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea.
