Betting: Barcelona and Dortmund to exact Champions League second leg revenge
When Barcelona were drawn against PSG in the Champions League last-16, many just assumed that Luis Enrique’s all-conquering side would breeze past the French champions.
But the Catalonians were left shell-shocked, when first half strikes from Angel di Maria and Julian Draxler put Unai Emery’s side in complete control.
Further goals from Di Maria and Edinson Cavani put the game and tie beyond doubt – with the 4-0 reversal all but condemning Barcelona to an early Champions League exit.
There’s still pride to be played for in the return leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday, and I’m expecting a response from a Barca side who still possess plenty of class.
The trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar may have failed to hit the heights of last season, but they have netted 76 goals between them in all competitions.
While even they are unlikely to overturn the four-goal deficit, I’m confident they’ll get the better of PSG on home soil in front of a packed out crowd.
An early goal could make it interesting, and I’m backing an attacking Barca to win Wednesday’s match at 1/2 with 188BET.
The night’s other Champions League match saw another shock, with Borussia Dortmund stunned 1-0 away to Benfica.
Fulham flop Kostas Mitroglou scored for the Portuguese side, and despite 69% possession, 14 shots, and a missed penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Dortmund couldn’t find a way through.
Despite that defeat, Dortmund aren’t short of form.
In the three games since, they’ve scored 12 times, with Aubameyang netting twice in a 6-2 hammering of Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday.
The Gabon international has 21 for the season, and despite Benfica holding firm in the first leg, I think they’ll struggle to keep him quiet again tonight.
The Lisbon side have won seven in a row, but I think Dortmund will be too strong, especially at Signal-Iduna-Park, where they haven’t lost since August.
I fancy the Germans to turn this around in what looks set to be a fascinating clash and will be backing them at 8/11 with 188BET to qualify – especially if the Germans take it to penalties.
Pointers
Barcelona win – 1/2 (188BET)
Dortmund to qualify – 8/11 (188BET)