Champions League Preview- Round of 16

With the second leg of matches being played over the next two weeks, we certainly have some exciting ties to be decided. The big match this evening is PSG vs Real Madrid. Madrid lead 3-1 from the first leg but I am expecting a tense night for the fans. Although PSG are missing start man Neymar, they have replaced him with a very capable player in the form of Di Maria. PSG were a bit unlucky in the first leg squandering a few good chances that, if taken, would put PSG in a more comfortable position. An open game is to be expected with lots of goals. Real Madrid have made the most changes with Vasquez, Asensio and Kovacic coming into the starting line up. In what seems to be a 4-4-2 line up, I expect Madrid to set up to counter and when they do, put early crosses into the box for Ronaldo and Benzema. For PSG, Lo Celso has been dropped after showing far too much inexperience in the first leg and being replaced by the reliable Thiago Motta who will screen the defence. This will allow Verrati and Rabiot to get forward as much as possible and help the front three in Mbappe, Cavani and Di Maria. If Madrid do set up with a four man midfield, I fear it could get over-run and that will cause lots of problems for the backline who have been suspect on numerous occasions this season. Di Mario will pose a set piece threat and cutting inside onto his favoured left foot will cause problems for Marcelo. Also, Di Maria's crossing and passing ability will have to be watched as he has a killer pass in his locker. I'm going for PSG to go through and the Parc Des Princes will be bouncing. The fans will be a massive boost for the players tonight and I see PSG winning 3-1 and going through on penalties.

The other game of the evening is all but over with Liverpool bringing 5 away goals with them to Anfield in what will be a routine night. Liverpool's attacking threat, especially at home with the fans behind them will be too much again for Porto and I predict a 3-0 victory for Liverpool which will see them progress to the quarter finals.