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Franzi | Games
Franzi | Games 
13 Mar 2026 | Sportsbetting
Champions League Matchday Predictions 2025/26: Round of 16 Second Legs
All predictions for the second legs of the 2025/26 Champions League Round of 16. Current form, background info, and exciting matchups. Info on the Champions League.
approx. 3 min.
Champions League Matchday Predictions 2025/26: Round of 16 Second Legs
The current Champions League campaign is steadily approaching its most critical stage. As we enter the second legs of the Round of 16, the landscape is varied: some teams hold a commanding lead, while others are locked in dead heats. For Atalanta and Tottenham, the mountain is steep; they'll need nothing short of a miracle to erase their heavy first-leg deficits. Meanwhile, other favorites are looking to simply close out their advantage. In a surprising turn of events, Bodø/Glimt and Galatasaray have transformed from dark horses into genuine threats to reach the quarterfinals. With the final eight spots nearly decided, powerhouses like Arsenal, PSG, and Bayern Munich remain laser-focused on lifting the trophy.
Quick Betting Tips by Merkur: Champions League Round of 16 Return Legs
Sporting Lisbon vs. Bodø/Glimt
Bodø/Glimt continues to defy the odds in the Champions League, riding a wave of momentum after a dominant 3-0 win in the opening match. Sporting now faces the uphill battle of overturning that scoreline in front of their own fans, hoping their recent strong form carries them through. Expect the Portuguese side to employ a high press, while the Norwegians will likely stay compact, relying on a disciplined defense and lethal counter-strikes. It should be a high-tension atmosphere with immense pressure on the home side.
Tip: Under 3.5 goals
Manchester City vs. Real Madrid
After a shocking 0-3 defeat in Madrid, Manchester City finds itself in a precarious position. Pep Guardiola's squad must seize control of the tempo early on while urgently fixing the defensive gaps that plagued them. Real Madrid, meanwhile, will look to exploit their lethal transition game, with Vinícius and his teammates poised to strike in the open spaces. Expect a high-octane encounter characterized by rapid pace.
Tip: Both teams score
FC Chelsea vs. Paris SG
PSG travels to London holding a comfortable three-goal cushion after their 5-2 victory. Even though a recent league stumble against Monaco has raised some questions, the defending champions still possess world-class individual talent. Chelsea is forced to gamble, pushing forward early to find a spark. However, this aggression might play right into PSG's hands, as the explosive speed of Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé makes them deadly on the break.
Tip: Over 3.5 goals
Arsenal London vs. Bayer Leverkusen
A 1-1 stalemate in the first leg means this tie is still anyone's game. Bayer Leverkusen has already proven they can go toe-to-toe with the Premier League's best. That said, Arsenal will likely dominate possession at the Emirates and push for a decisive goal. While Leverkusen remains a threat on the counter, they've struggled to convert one-on-one chances. An Arsenal exit would be a massive shock to the football world; expect a nail-biting finish.
Tip: 1
FC Barcelona vs. Newcastle United
Barcelona and Newcastle played out a very tight first leg, though the result ultimately favored the Spanish side. Despite creating numerous chances and maintaining high intensity, the English club couldn't make their home advantage count. Now, the action shifts to the Camp Nou, where Barça will look to impose their rhythm and dictate the game. It promises to be a tactical chess match with plenty of end-to-end action.
Tip: 1 + over 3.5 goals
FC Liverpool vs. Galatasaray Istanbul
The pressure is on at Anfield, as Liverpool heads into the second leg trailing 0-1 after their trip to Istanbul. The Reds had the chances to score in the first match but lacked the clinical edge in front of goal. Back on home turf, they are expected to play with much more aggression and urgency. Galatasaray will likely sit deep and look for counters, but Liverpool's relentless attacking pressure might finally pay off.
Tip: 1 + both teams to score
Tottenham Hotspur vs. Atletico Madrid
Following a bruising 2-5 defeat in Madrid, Tottenham is facing a nearly impossible task—especially given their current slump in form. Atlético was clinical in the first leg, punishing every mistake the Spurs made. While Tottenham must attack relentlessly to stand a chance, doing so will leave them wide open to Atlético's dangerous counterattacks. This match is set to be fast-paced and high-scoring.
Tip: Over 3.5 goals
Bayern München vs. Atalanta Bergamo
A devastating 6-1 loss in the first leg has left Atalanta with almost no path back—and remarkably, Bayern managed this without Harry Kane on the pitch. The Germans completely controlled the game, showcasing an overwhelming offensive force. Even if Bayern rotates their squad, they are expected to dictate the tempo again. The only silver lining for the opposition is the fact that Davies, Musiala, and Urbig all picked up injuries during that dominant win.
Tip: 1 + under 3.5 goals
