The UEFA Champions League is back in our lives this week as we get ready for the second leg of the round of 16 ties. While there are certainly favourites amongst the pack, every single team left in the running will believe they’re in with a chance of lifting that famous trophy. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fascinating encounter between Barcelona and Napoli.
Barcelona Form GuideBarcelona’s recent history has been turbulent, to say the least, with troubles off the pitch often serving as a dark cloud hanging over what they’ve been able to achieve on it. The Spanish giants are still a force of nature, though, and with the squad they have at their disposal, they’re definitely going to be a team to watch as dark horses in the grand scheme of things.
Barca and Napoli both had their moments in the first leg over in Italy but ultimately, neither was able to put the other away, leaving things wide open for this clash. Lewandowski opened the scoring but Osimhen was quick to equalise, leaving the tie poised at 1-1.
Napoli Form GuideNapoli are the kings of Italian football after their Serie A triumph last season. At this point, though, the celebrations are a distant memory, as the focus turns to what they can achieve this season. They made some real progress in the Champions League last time out but if they want to cement themselves as one of the continent’s big players, they need to go a step or two further.
Barca and Napoli both had their moments in the first leg over in Italy but ultimately, neither was able to put the other away, leaving things wide open for this clash. Lewandowski opened the scoring but Osimhen was quick to equalise, leaving the tie poised at 1-1.
Match PredictionWe expect to see both teams put their best foot forward in an encounter such as this one. They have the attacking talent necessary to do so and everything comes down to this second leg. We’re going to shoot for over 2.5 goals scored, but we’re not quite sure who will benefit.