The UEFA Champions League quarterfinal draw was revealed on Friday, and it did not disappoint. Historically speaking, when the prestigious tournament gets down to the final eight clubs, there are always some massive matchups. However, this season’s draw is particularly mouthwatering.
Current Champions League holders Real Madrid will face Premier League side Chelsea. The two clubs know each other extremely well, as they have faced off in each of the last two campaigns. Chelsea previously beat Real in the semifinal stage two years ago on their way to lifting the trophy. However, Real returned the favor by beating the Blues in the quarterfinals last season.
City face Bayern in marquee matchup
In perhaps the most anticipated matchup, Manchester City plays Bayern Munich. The two powerhouse teams are currently the top favorites to win the competition this year. FiveThirtyEight gives City a 28% chance to lift the cup, while Bayern have an 18% chance according to the analysis website. City boss Pep Guardiola also previously managing Bayern for three seasons.
The quarterfinals will feature an all-Italian tie as well. Current Serie A leaders Napoli are set to play rivals AC Milan. Napoli have one of the most potent offenses in the world at the moment. The Blues are led by star tandem Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. While Milan currently sit fourth in the Italian top flight, they earned their spot at the table by knocking out Tottenham Hotspur in the previous round.
Inter Milan is also set to face Benfica as well. Despite losing star midfielder Enzo Fernandez during the current campaign, the Portuguese club is still top of their league and a formidable team. Inter Milan, on the other hand, are currently second in Serie A behind the aforementioned Napoli.
Champions League quarterfinal draw sets up semis
Along with revealing the quarterfinal fixtures, the semifinals are also set as well. The quarterfinals will begin on April 11 and 12, while the following round will take place in May.
UEFA Champions League quarterfinal draw:
Real Madrid vs. Chelsea
Inter Milan vs. Benfica
Manchester City vs. Bayern Munich
AC Milan vs. Napoli
UEFA Champions League semifinal draw:
AC Milan or Napoli vs. Benfica or Inter Milan
Real Madrid or Chelsea vs. Manchester City or Bayern Munich
Notice, the first of those semifinal matchups guarantees one of Milan, Napoli, Benfica and Inter Milan will be in the UEFA Champions League Final this season.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Action Plus
