Predictions for the Champions League matches on February 25th
Atalanta vs Borussia Dortmund
After the defeat in Dortmund, Atalanta needs to score at least twice without conceding to push the match into extra time. Considering Borussia's key defensive players are absent, we have no doubt that the Bergamaschi will manage to hit the opponent's net at least once. Moreover, Raffaele Palladino's team is in high spirits after their victory over Napoli (2:1) in Serie A.
For Borussia, goals by Guirassy and Bayer have created a comfortable cushion ahead of their trip to Italy. However, on Saturday, the Dortmund side showed how challenging it is for them defensively without several key players: in the match against RB Leipzig, they managed only to escape with a draw (2:2). Considering the level of the opponents and the importance of the match, where nothing is yet decided for Borussia, we expect a high-scoring game.
Match Prediction for Atalanta vs Borussia Dortmund: both teams to score (yes)
Juventus vs Galatasaray
The Turin side is in frankly poor form: after being knocked out of the Coppa Italia, they have one draw and a series of three consecutive defeats. After conceding five goals in Istanbul, the "Old Lady" lost at home to Como (0:2). On Wednesday, to take the game to extra time, the team needs to score three times without conceding. Given the significant number of personnel losses, it's hard to believe in Juventus' progression.
Galatasaray capitalized on the opponent's sending off in the first match, which largely predetermined the rout. The "Lions" head to Italy with a comfortable advantage, but it's too early for them to relax. Over the weekend, Okan Buruk's team lost to Konyaspor (0:2), intensifying the title race – Fenerbahce, with a game in hand, can draw level on points.
Most likely, the visitors will play defensively, focusing on organized defense. We don't believe in a Juventus comeback, but the Turin side is capable of breaking their losing streak and securing a victory, at least for prestige.
Match Prediction for Juventus vs Galatasaray: Juventus to win
PSG vs Monaco
After an impressive comeback in the first game at "Louis II," there are hardly any doubts left about the Parisians advancing to the Round of 16. Monaco started brightly but quickly lost ground. Even despite their away win over Lens (3:2), PSG remains a completely different level of opponent.
Luis Enrique's team is beginning to resemble last year's version: after an unconvincing start to the season, they are gradually gaining form and reaching their peak. Over the weekend, the Parisians confidently dealt with Metz (3:0), and there are grounds to believe we will see something similar in the return leg.
Match Prediction for PSG vs Monaco: PSG to win with a handicap (-1.5)
Real Madrid vs Benfica
After a tense and largely controversial match in Lisbon, the Madrid side managed to take a victory from the "Estádio da Luz".However, over the weekend, the "Merengues" lost their lead in La Liga, falling to Osasuna (0:1). At the "Bernabeu," Real Madrid needs to redeem themselves in front of their fans, especially since their advantage cannot be considered comfortable.
The "Eagles" in the first encounter failed to perform as they did in the group stage game against Real Madrid (4:2). The defeat seemed justified. Over the weekend, Benfica thrashed ABC (3:0) in the Portuguese championship, but replicating such a scenario in Madrid will be extremely difficult. Moreover, José Mourinho will not be able to manage the team from the sidelines due to a suspension.
