Champions League: Crucial Battles on Matchday 3

Matchday 3 of the Champions League group stage takes place on Wednesday, 22 October. Teams will aim to consolidate a strong start or recover from a disappointing opening. From promising underdogs to clashes between European heavyweights, here’s what to expect – and who the experts tip as favorites.

Athletic Bilbao – Qarabag FK: 22/10 - 18:45

Favorite : Athletic Bilbao

Athletic Bilbao look to carry their strong home form into Europe. Qarabag FK have shown they can cause surprises, but facing the Basques at San Mamés will be a tough challenge. Bilbao are favored and are expected to control the game.

Galatasaray – Bodø/Glimt: 22/10 - 18:45

Favorite: Galatasaray

Galatasaray need to regain confidence after a shaky start, especially in front of their home crowd. Bodø/Glimt can surprise, but Istanbul is a formidable test. Galatasaray’s attacking firepower makes them the likely winners.

Atalanta Bergamo - Slavia Prague: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Atalanta

Atalanta are looking to bounce back after a difficult start and will benefit from home support. Slavia Prague have shown resilience, but Atalanta’s solid defense and sharp attack make them the team to beat in Bergamo.

Monaco – Tottenham Hotspur: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Tottenham

Monaco started strongly, but Tottenham’s European experience gives them the edge. Despite a tough away trip, the Londoners are expected to break down the French defense and secure all three points.

Bayern Munich – Club Brugge: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Bayern Munich

Bayern remain the team to beat in Europe. Club Brugge can surprise, but in Munich, the German champions will showcase their superiority. A convincing win is expected for Bayern.

Chelsea – Ajax: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Chelsea

Chelsea trouve progressivement son rythme et pourra compter sur un effectif solide à Stamford Bridge. L’Ajax souffre de l’absence de joueurs clés, réduisant ses chances. Les Blues sont considérés comme le choix le plus sûr pour l’emporter.

Eintracht Frankfurt – Liverpool: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Liverpool

Frankfurt can score easily but are defensively vulnerable. Liverpool should capitalize on this with their pace and clinical finishing. The Reds are favored to take the win in Germany.

Real Madrid – Juventus: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Real Madrid

Real Madrid aim to continue their strong start in the group. Juventus have quality but lack the stability of the Madrid side. At home, Real’s experience and squad depth make them favorites.

Sporting CP – Olympique Marseille: 22/10 - 21:00

Favorite: Sporting CP

Sporting CP are in good form and want to build momentum at home. Marseille remain dangerous but inconsistent. Sporting’s balance between attack and defense makes them favorites in this tight encounter.