Madrid Duo Could be Value in the Champions League Outright Market
Although Bayern Munich are understandably favourites in the UCL outright market, there could be value in backing the two sides from the Spanish capital.
English Sides Look Vulnerable
Unlike last season, both Liverpool and Man City have been unconvincing in the top flight, and that form is likely to spill over into the Champions League. The Reds won just three of their seven PL games between December 6th and January 4th, and with defensive injuries plaguing them this season, they look worth opposing as third favourites.
Although Man City have looked stronger in recent weeks, and could strengthen in the January transfer window, however, Pep has been unable to steer his side through the knock-out stages of the tournament in previous years, and that appears to be a stumbling block for the 49-year old.
His side are married to their system, however, he has been guilty over over-thinking and tinkering at this stage of the competition before, and that is something of a concern, especially at a price of 4/1.
Juventus and Barcelona Struggling Since Changes in the Dugout
Juve may have suffered just a single defeat this season (0-3 to Fiorentina), however, many fans remain unconvinced by their performances.
The Bianconeri sit fifth in the table, and their once obstinate defence has struggled to keep the opposition off the score-sheet this season. They’ve kept clean sheets in just 21% of their matches this season, and they aren’t going to get away with such defensive naivety in this competition.
Barcelona, who were drawn alongside Juventus in the group stage are also yet to convince this season. Although they’ve put together a decent run throughout December, there are still problems within the squad, and they still look short of star quality. They also have a tough-looking last 16 tie with PSG to negotiate.
At 12/1 and 18/1 respectively in the betting, they look opposable.
The Trophy May be Heading to Madrid
Real Madrid may have flattered to deceive in this competition in the last two seasons, however, they may be worth considering in the outright market this time around. Zidane’s side have plenty of quality in their ranks, and they appear to have overcome their mid-season wobbles.
As of January 5th, they’ve won six of their last seven games in La Liga, and have kept clean sheets against some decent sides including Sevilla, and leaders Atletico Madrid. They’ve also seen off rivals Barcelona this season (convincingly), and after a forgettable November, they could be set for a grandstand second half of the campaign. Los Blancos are 16/1 in the outright betting, and they appear to be fully focused following an unconvincing group stage.
The aforementioned Atletico could be also worth an each-way bet at around 16/1. Diego Simeone’s side are supremely well-organised and are rarely breached. They’ve conceded just six times in the Spanish top flight this year, and their defence is so incredibly assured. Simeone has twice come close to bagging the ultimate prize, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them make the final once again.
Champions League Outright Tips
Real Madrid E/W – 16/1 at bet365
Atletico Madrid E/W – 16/1 at bet365
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