Champions League Quarterfinal Matchups and Expert Forecasts

With the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals upon us this midweek, anticipation is high. In Tuesday`s matches, despite valiant efforts to overturn first-leg deficits, Borussia Dortmund`s 3-1 victory over Barcelona wasn`t enough, resulting in a 5-3 aggregate loss. Similarly, Aston Villa`s comeback attempt against PSG fell short, concluding 5-4 on aggregate after a 3-3 second leg draw. The significant first-leg defeats proved insurmountable for both home sides.

Looking ahead to Wednesday, Real Madrid faces the challenge of reversing a deficit against Arsenal, while Inter Milan hosts Bayern Munich at San Siro, holding a narrow one-goal lead.

Games that remain tied after both legs will proceed to 30 minutes of extra time, followed by penalty kicks if necessary to determine the winner.

Below are expert predictions for these crucial matchups.

Here are our expert picks for this matchday:

Champions League Quarterfinals Predictions

Inter vs. Bayern Munich Match Preview

Player to watch: Harry Kane, Bayern Munich – Harry Kane is expected to potentially secure his first major trophy soon. However, Bayern`s acquisition of Kane was primarily aimed at Champions League success, where he`s expected to be a game-changer in tight contests. The question is, can he deliver on Wednesday night? — James Benge

Man of the match: Yann Sommer, Inter – Yann Sommer stood out in the first leg of the quarterfinals, contributing significantly to Inter`s 2-1 victory at Bayern Munich`s Allianz Arena. He reaffirmed his status as a top-tier goalkeeper. Inter will need Sommer at his peak to prevent a loss on Wednesday, as even a draw would secure their progression to the semifinals. — Francesco Porzio

Prediction: Inter 1, Bayern Munich 1 – Facing numerous injuries and trailing from the first leg, Bayern faces a difficult challenge to overcome the 2023 Champions League finalists. Inter is favored to advance to the semifinals, potentially setting up a reunion with FC Barcelona, reminiscent of the 2009-10 season when Inter achieved the Treble under Jose Mourinho. — Francesco Porzio

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Match Preview

Player to watch: Jurrien Timber, Arsenal – While William Saliba received well-deserved praise for Arsenal`s solid defense in the first leg, Jurrien Timber`s contribution at right-back was equally crucial. If Timber can again neutralize the attacking threats posed by Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid may struggle to overcome their three-goal deficit. — James Benge

Man of the match: Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid – Vinicius Jr. needs to perform at his highest level if Real Madrid hopes to stage a comeback against Arsenal following their 3-0 defeat in the first leg. Vinicius, anticipated to form an attacking trio with Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe, has already scored seven Champions League goals this season. However, a defeat to Arsenal would mark a significant setback in his career. — Francesco Porzio

Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 0 – Real Madrid is among the few teams capable of overturning a deficit against Arsenal. However, Carlo Ancelotti`s squad faces considerable challenges this time, with injuries forcing key players into unfamiliar roles. Despite these obstacles, at the Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid should never be underestimated. — Francesco Porzio

Quarterfinal TV Schedule