Champions League: big names look to take control in round 3

The Champions League league phase continues on 21 October, as clubs across Europe battle for early control in their groups. From Barcelona seeking redemption to Union Saint-Gilloise facing Italian giants Inter Milan, the night promises top-quality football and plenty of drama.

FC Barcelona – Olympiakos Piraeus on 21/10 at 18:45

Most likely to win: FC Barcelona

Barcelona opened their campaign with a confident win over Newcastle but were narrowly defeated by PSG in round two. Facing Olympiakos should be a more manageable task – the Greek side simply doesn’t have the same firepower as their recent opponents. The experts expect Barça to take all three points comfortably at home.

Kairat Almaty – Pafos FC on 21/10 at 18:45

Most likely to win: Pafos FC

Kairat Almaty have endured a rough start, suffering heavy defeats in both opening rounds. Pafos, on the other hand, surprised many with a solid draw against Olympiacos before falling to Bayern’s “Kompany Ball.” While the Cypriot side are slight favourites, this match could be tighter than expected.
 

Arsenal FC – Atlético Madrid on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Arsenal

Arsenal have been impressive so far with two wins from two, including a comfortable victory over Olympiacos. Atlético’s form has been mixed – a narrow loss to Liverpool followed by a 5-1 demolition of Frankfurt. The experts give Arsenal the edge at the Emirates Stadium, but a close and tactical battle is expected.
 

Bayer Leverkusen – Paris Saint-Germain on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Paris Saint-Germain

Leverkusen may be the reigning German champions, but their two opening draws have raised questions about their cutting edge. PSG, meanwhile, have started perfectly with back-to-back wins and look to be in full control. With Dembélé and company in top form, the French side are tipped to continue their winning streak.
 

FC Copenhagen – Borussia Dortmund on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Borussia Dortmund

Copenhagen’s defeat to Qarabag was one of the surprises of round two, and they’ll now face an in-form Dortmund side that scored eight goals in their first two matches. The German club’s attacking power should be too much for the Danish champions, who will have to work hard just to stay in the contest.
 

Newcastle United – Benfica on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Newcastle United

After a narrow loss to Barcelona, Newcastle bounced back by sweeping past Union Saint-Gilloise in style. Benfica, meanwhile, have yet to win a match and already sacked their manager after losing to Qarabag. With the home crowd behind them, Newcastle are firm favourites to extend Benfica’s misery.
 

PSV Eindhoven – SSC Napoli on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Napoli

PSV have struggled to find rhythm, losing to Union and drawing with Leverkusen. Napoli haven’t looked flawless either, but their quality and experience give them the upper hand. The Dutch side will be desperate for points, yet the experts expect Napoli’s firepower to make the difference.
 

Union Saint-Gilloise – Inter Milan on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Inter Milan

Union’s dream start with a win over PSV was followed by a reality check against Newcastle. Inter, with two victories from two, arrive in Brussels as clear favourites. Still, Union’s new coach may bring tactical freshness – could another surprise be on the horizon? The experts doubt it, but fans can hope.

Villarreal CF – Manchester City on 21/10 at 21:00

Most likely to win: Manchester City

Villarreal showed resilience in a draw with Juventus, but now face one of Europe’s most formidable sides. Despite a shaky Premier League start, City remain strong contenders in Europe and are expected to dominate possession and take control early. The experts back Guardiola’s men to take all three points in Spain.