It’s the first legs of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals this week and BetVictor Brand Ambassador Michael Owen is here to preview the action.
Draw
Real Madrid v Chelsea 1-1
Real Madrid welcome Chelsea to the Spanish capital having not lost a competitive match since February. However, Los Blancos have won only once in their last four matches and come into this after drawing 0-0 at home to Real Betis at the weekend.
With no goals conceded in three games, Chelsea’s excellent defensive record continues to impress. Furthermore, the Blues’ have let in just one goal in their last seven away from home.
I don’t think Thomas Tuchel will deviate much from what we’ve seen from his side recently. That could mean we’re in for a typically cagey first leg, so it would be no surprise to me if it ended all square.
City to win & btts
Paris Saint Germain v Manchester City 1-2
It’s been far from a vintage spell at home for PSG. The Parisians won 3-1 away to Metz on Saturday, however, they have only been victorious in three of their last eight competitive games at the Parc des Princes.
With another trophy in the bag, Manchester City are really gathering pace. The Citizens have only lost once on their travels in their last 22 matches, that coming against Chelsea at Wembley.
PSG may have eliminated Bayern in the previous round, but their vulnerability at the back was there for everyone to see.
One bonus for the home side will be the possible return of Marquinhos to their back line. That said, if City are on song again, I think they’ll have more than enough to secure a vital first leg victory.
It’s 2-1 to the Manchester side for me.
