Real Madrid vs FC Basel
The reigning champions kick off their campaign against a team who provided a good account of themselves in Europe last season, most notably against Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. Salah is undoubtedly a big loss for the Swiss Champions, and Paulo Sousa must decide whether this is a case of damage limitation. Real Madrid have the quality to comfortably win this tie. However, they must be wary of complacency as FC Basel go into this game near the top of their domestic league, having just relinquished their lead to FC Zurich. I feel that Real Madrid’s quality will flourish and they will open their European campaign with a comfortable win.
Prediction 3-0
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ajax vs PSG
PSG’s millions have easily secured the French title, however the owners are determined to succeed amongst Europe’s elite. The summer signing of Luiz has strengthened their options in terms of quality and European experience. Additionally, their attacking options are easily capable of succeeding in this competition, as Zlatan Ibrahimovic continues to impress the footballing world with his talents. I think Ajax will struggle in this fixture, as their erratic early season form suggests they will be no match against a determined PSG side.
Prediction 1-3
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Barcelona vs Apoel Nicosia
Barcelona should be delighted with their opening game of the Champions League campaign. Apoel Nicosia will be dreading their trip to the Nou Camp and will need to have the game of their lives should they obtain any points in their toughest fixture of their group. Barcelona will use this game to instil confidence into a team who are looking to re-establish themselves amongst the top teams in Europe, following two disappointing Champions League seasons, when considering their recent history. I’m predicting that Apoel Nicosia will approach this game diligently, however, once Barcelona find their opening, they will win the game comfortably.
Prediction 4-0
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Olympiakos vs Atletico Madrid
Olympiakos absolutely cruised to the Greek League title last season. However, they will be fully aware that they must be on top form if they expect to gain a positive result against Simeone’s hard working side. The Spanish champions will be wary of the team who almost provided the footballing world with a shock against a below-par Manchester United side in the last 16, narrowly losing out after a Robin Van Persie hat-trick. The Greek crowd will be electric, and the atmosphere will play a huge part in this match. Atletico Madrid now have the European experience to deal with such an atmosphere and must be mentally prepared for this challenging task. I feel that this will be a tight encounter, with Atletico Madrid just edging it.
Prediction 0-1
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Juventus vs Malmo
Juventus have conquered Italy, however, time and time again they have faltered in Europe. Serie A is not the league it once was, therefore winning it is not seen as the greatest achievement by the club’s hierarchy. The effect of Conte’s departure remains to be seen, however, any negative effects on the squad will not influence the result of this fixture. Malmo are a class below in terms of quality and will be hoping Juventus have an off-day to claim anything from this match. Juventus need to focus on succeeding in Europe and I fully expect that their title-winning squad will comfortably win this match.
Prediction 2-0
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Liverpool vs Ludogorets
I am buzzing for Liverpool’s return to the Champions League. The atmosphere at Anfield will be incredible and Brendan Rodgers’ men have finally got the reward for their outstanding season last year. Suarez will be a big miss, but this game should not worry Liverpool. They go into their opening fixture as strong favourites and I expect them to run riot against a team who lacks the quality to compete effectively at this level. I expect Liverpool to come out flying as they did time and time again last season. Comfortable home win expected.
Prediction 3-0
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chelsea vs Schalke
Chelsea seemed to have addressed their shortcomings last season. Jose Mourinho will be delighted with their transfer activities and will be fully confident of topping their relatively easy Champions League group. Schalke will certainly be no pushovers, they proved against Bayern Munich that they are capable of giving the European elite a tough time on their day. Jose Mourinho will make sure his team is fully prepared for this game, as they will be aiming to qualify as quickly as possible. I’m predicting Chelsea to continue their early season form and record a win against the German outfit.
Prediction 2-0
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Dortmund vs Arsenal
This game has a sense of unpredictability about it. Their previous meetings suggest that they are both capable of winning this match. Arsenal have bolstered their squad with some key signings, most notably Alexis Sanchez. Dortmund have not been on top form at the start of the season but the atmosphere in Germany will ensure that they give no less than 100%. Jurgen Klopp must live with constant frustration as their squad is constantly dismantled by the financial powers of Bayern Munich. I’m expecting that neither team will want to kick off their campaign with a loss, resulting in a somewhat cagey affair. For that reason, I’m predicting a score draw.
Prediction 1-
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Bayern Munich vs Manchester City
It’s déjà vu in Munich. These two sides gave the footballing world an enthralling end to the group stage phase of the competition. It will be remembered for Pellegrini’s inability to understand the goal difference ruling and not going for that vital final goal in Munich which would have allowed them to top the group. Similar to PSG, their financial investment has been limited to domestic success and Manuel Pellegrini must achieve European Glory to make true history at the club. I feel that if Manchester City set up correctly they can frustrate Pep Guardiola’s side who have barely hit second gear at the start of the season. However, world class players tend to step up in these European ties, and I fully expect Bayern Munich to be in full force and record a win in what will be a tight and riveting encounter.
Prediction 2-1
