BetVictor Brand Ambassador Michael Owen looks ahead to the Champions League semi-finals, where the Premier League‘s top two remain on course to face each other for Europe’s ultimate prize.
Villarreal v Liverpool
Liverpool to win 2-1
The first leg at Anfield wasn’t a thriller, but Liverpool deserved to get the win. Villarreal sat deep and tried to frustrate Liverpool, but they had very little threat. They barely had a shot at Anfield, and they’ll need a big improvement here if they are to go through.
Considering how much they controlled the game, Klopp was probably frustrated to only win by two goals. Villarreal will have to approach this one differently, that should suit Liverpool.
The more Villarreal try to get the goals they need in this, the more it should play into Liverpool’s hands. I can see Villarreal getting a goal, but Liverpool winning this 2-1.
Real Madrid v Manchester City
Manchester City to win 2-1
The first leg was a classic, this one should be just as dramatic. For Real, only losing by a goal was a brilliant result for them, and they’ll be hoping for more heroics at the Bernabeu. Benzema has obviously been incredible in this competition, Real will need more of the same if they are to go through.
For City, I’m not sure how they didn’t win by more. They could have been three or four up in the first half, but didn’t take their chances and were left to rue them. There was some excellent performances in the side, but De Bruyne and Silva were simply brilliant.
If City play like they did in Manchester, I think they will go through. The atmosphere in Madrid will be amazing, and Real will try to take the game to City. That should suit City though, and I can see them winning this 2-1.
