Champions League: Man Utd, Roma, Tottenham, Real Madrid

Image result for Neymar’sNeymar’s absence from both legs of this Champions League showdown puts a different complexion on the balance of power in this tie, with the shift in momentum at United since these two giants of European football were paired together at the draw last December adding to the hype around a game that has become one of the most anticipated game of 2019 so far.

Interim United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was present to watch PSG’s first league defeat of the season at Lyon last weekend and he will have been encouraged by the space Nabil Fekir and Memphis Depay were given by the French champions.

One to watch: Angel Di Maria (PSG)

This Argentine winger will return to Old Trafford after a horrible season in Manchester following his mega-money move in the summer of 2014. After failing to adapt to the Premier League, he joined PSG and has shown fleeting moments of class for the dominant French champions.

Verdict: United to take a first leg lead, but PSG will score an away goal.

ROMA v FC PORTO – BT Sport 3 (8pm)Image result for roma v fc porto

FC Porto are leading the Portuguese title race once again, but they have stumbled in recent weeks and face an uphill task as they take on unpredictable opposition in Rome.

Meanwhile, Roma coach Eusebio Di Francesco had questions to answer as his side were hammered 7-1 by Fiorentina in a Coppa Italia match last month, with Stephan El Shaarawy carrying their primary goal threat in the first leg in Rome.

One to watch: Soares (Porto)

This Brazilian forward has been in prolific form for Porto this season, scoring nine times in 15 appearances. An away goal or two in Rome would be so valuable to Porto.

Verdict: Score draw that will be welcomed by the away side.

WEDNESDAY

TOTTENHAM v BORUSSIA DORTMUND – BT Sport 3/Virgin Media Sport (8pm)Image result for TOTTENHAM v BORUSSIA DORTMUND

Dortmund’s stunning form in the Bundesliga has been one of the big talking points in European football this season, but their lead at the top of the Bundesliga has been trimmed after some nervy displays this month.

The huge Wembley crowd should been for a treat as Tottenham look to make their way through to the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2011, when Harry Redknapp’s Spurs were powered by a youthful Gareth Bale.

One to watch: Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund)

This English youngster has established himself as a huge star in Germany this season, with this chance to appear on the Wembley stage a golden chance to showcase his talents.

Verdict: Spurs need Harry Kane and Dele Alli back to have chance of progress in this tie.

AJAX v REAL MADRID – BT Sport 3 (8pm)Image result for AJAX v REAL MADRID

Real Madrid have won the last three Champions League titles, but their stranglehold on the competition has been loosened after a season of inconsistency under coach Santiago Solari, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s considerable influence on their success highlighted since his departure to Juventus.

That may fuel Ajax hopes of creating a major upset in this tie, but coach Erik ten Hag and his side led by former Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic do not have the class in their ranks to trouble a Real Madrid side that have big games players who will rise to the occasion in Amsterdam.

One to watch: Gareth Bale (Real Madrid)

The Welsh wizard has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but niggling injuries have stunted his progress. Bale’s career is in danger of drifting unless he can have an extended spell outside of the treatment room.

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