Champions League betting tips & odds – Round of 16, Feb 23-24
The UEFA Champions League is back in full force and we have some great games on deck. After a tough-fought group stage that saw many talented teams sent packing, we are still left with the best sides in the world. With four ties in the round of 16 kicking off last week, we return with some more class matchups.
Villarreal vs Juventus
After a dramatic transfer window that saw Juventus make a lot of moves, they appear to have finally found their Cristiano Ronaldo replacement. Dusan Vlahovic of Serbia is a young star that every soccer fan should be aware of. While Juve have been up and down this season, they have played very well in the Champions League and it is clear that this tournament is their paramount focus. With a stout defense, Juventus should be able to limit Villarreal’s goalscoring opportunities and position themselves in a good spot to advance to the next round.
Villarreal are no slouches and have the talent to pull off a good result. However, they are a clear step below Juventus’ level and the value of this game is too good to pass up. They have a good defense and it should be a hard-fought battle. But, that being said, Juventus should be able to bag a goal or two and see the game out without too much drama.
Juventus to win
Benfica vs Ajax
Ajax have historically been a dark horse in this tournament and are constantly re-tooling their squad with young talent. This year, they have cruised through to the knockout phase and surprised everyone by coasting through some tough group stage games. Ivorian striker Sebastien Haller has been in great form and will look to continue his goalscoring stampede against an inferior Benfica team. Although Ajax may not be at the level of some of the other top dogs in this tournament, they will have something to prove and Benfica will be the first to realize that.
The Portuguese powerhouse of Benfica have had a bit of a down year and find themselves in third place in their league. With a congested fixture list, they do not have the depth of Ajax and will struggle to keep up in these midweek matches. While Benfica are a talented team that definitely have the spark to spring a good result from this match, Ajax should win and coast into the next round.
Ajax to win
Atletico Madrid vs Manchester United
In what is probably the match of the week, both of these teams have high aspirations and will be looking to go far in this tournament. Although both teams have had so-so seasons in their leagues, a strong Champions League run would heal all wounds and win their respective fans over. United are flushed with goalscoring talent and Madrid have historically had no issue sitting back and suffocating teams, which points to a low-scoring stalemate. Take the draw and stay away from betting either side in an unpredictable match.
