Tonight, 11th March 2025, marks a crucial night in the 2024/2025 Champions League season. It is the second-leg fixture of the Round of 16, and the battles ahead promise to be intense—so intense that the field itself might cry for mercy.
The first-leg matches, which took place last week, delivered some shocking results. One of the biggest surprises was Liverpool’s victory over PSG in Paris. Despite PSG dominating possession, creating numerous chances, and taking plenty of shots, they failed to capitalize. Now, as we head into the decisive second-leg encounters, let’s take a closer look at the fixtures:
Barcelona vs. Benfica
The first leg ended with a narrow 1-0 victory for Barcelona, thanks to a crucial goal from Raphinha. Heading into the second leg at the Camp Nou, Barcelona holds the advantage, both in terms of aggregate score and home support. Given their form and the added benefit of playing in front of their fans, Barcelona seems to have a better chance of progressing.
Liverpool vs. PSG
This tie is far from settled, despite Liverpool’s 1-0 win in the first leg. If you watched that match, you’d know that PSG had control of the game, continuously testing Liverpool’s goalkeeper with shots from all angles. However, football is about results, and Liverpool walked away victorious. Tonight’s match at Anfield is expected to be a battle. With just a one-goal difference, anything can happen, and PSG will be desperate to overturn the deficit.
Inter Milan vs. Feyenoord
Am I the only one who thinks this tie is already done and dusted? Inter Milan secured a solid 2-0 victory in the first leg at Feyenoord’s home ground, and now they return to the San Siro for the second leg. With a comfortable lead and home advantage, it is hard to see Feyenoord pulling off an upset. Unless something extraordinary happens, Inter Milan should comfortably book their spot in the quarter-finals.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Bayern Munich
The first leg of this tie was a disaster for Bayer Leverkusen, as they were completely outclassed in a 3-0 defeat to Bayern Munich. It almost seemed like Leverkusen traveled to Munich for a training session rather than a competitive match. With such a commanding lead, Bayern Munich is expected to finish the job at home and cruise into the next round.
Extras for Tomorrow’s Fixtures:
Lille vs. Borussia Dortmund
This match is wide open. Lille managed to hold Borussia Dortmund to a 1-1 draw in the first leg, proving they are no pushovers. With the second leg now being played on their home turf, Lille has a real chance of upsetting Dortmund. If Dortmund does not approach the game with caution, they could find themselves eliminated. This one is too close to call!
Aston Villa vs. Club Brugge
I never expected Aston Villa to dominate Club Brugge the way they did in the first leg. Not only did they win, but they did so convincingly with a 3-1 victory. With that kind of performance, it is difficult to see Club Brugge making a comeback. Unless they pull off something magical, Aston Villa looks set to advance to the next round.
Thanks!
Photo source: Official Facebook page of Uefa Champions League
