The UEFA Champions League spherical of 16 draw has produced a collection of blockbuster ties, headlined by holders Paris Saint-Germain searching for revenge in opposition to Chelsea.
In the meantime, Newcastle United have been handed a large showdown in opposition to Barcelona, a rematch of their group-stage assembly.
Commercial
Elsewhere, Manchester Metropolis will as soon as once more lock horns with their fashionable European arch-nemesis, Actual Madrid.
And that’s solely the start of what ought to be an thrilling spherical of knockout video games on March 10/11 and March 17/18.
Chelsea vs PSG: An announcement tie
Chelsea tackle the reigning champions PSG simply because the Parisians are starting to search out their toes after a troublesome begin to the season.
The French aspect is determined for redemption on the grandest stage after shedding the Membership World Cup last to Chelsea. Even supervisor Luis Enrique desires Chelsea.
Nonetheless, this Chelsea aspect is filled with surprises. They defied the chances to clinch that title in the USA and will probably be desperate to repeat the trick.
Commercial
Chelsea journey to PSG on March 11 earlier than the second leg at Stamford Bridge per week afterward March 17. The battle guarantees to be one of many ties of the spherical.
Metropolis vs Madrid: Acquainted foes
If there may be one fixture that now seems like a Champions League custom, it’s Metropolis in opposition to Actual Madrid.
The 2 golf equipment have outlined latest editions of the competitors, buying and selling blows in epic knockout clashes.
As soon as once more, Pep Guardiola’s aspect should navigate the final word European specialists to progress.
Ought to Metropolis advance, they’ll meet both Bayern Munich or Atalanta within the quarter-finals, hardly a mild reward for overcoming Madrid.
Commercial
Newcastle’s dream draw
For Newcastle supporters, that is what Champions League nights are about. Barcelona at St James’ Park will evoke recollections of well-known European evenings from many years previous.
Eddie Howe’s aspect have grown into continental rivals, however going through the represents their sternest take a look at but.
The Geordies have already misplaced to Barca within the group stage and will probably be decided to make amends.
Intriguingly, Newcastle sit in the identical half of the draw as Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona, elevating the potential of an all-English semi-final.
Arsenal’s calculated path
Premier League leaders Arsenal have been paired with Bayer Leverkusen, a technically gifted and tactically fluid however struggling opponent.
Commercial
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta will fancy their probabilities.
Arsenal are one of many strongest groups in Europe and will probably be eyeing a deep run into the match.
If Arsenal progress, they’ll face both shock bundle Bodø/Glimt or Sporting CP within the quarter-finals.
Bodø/Glimt have already surprised Europe by eliminating 2023’s finalists Inter Milan, proving they’re no fairytale act, however on paper, this represents one of many extra navigable routes.
Nonetheless, lurking in Arsenal’s half are Newcastle, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as they bid to achieve the ultimate in Budapest.
Liverpool’s delicate stability
Liverpool have been drawn in opposition to Galatasaray, a tie that can demand composure in a hostile ambiance. European nights in Istanbul are not often snug.
Commercial
The Reds have already misplaced in Turkey, with ‘s penalty deciding an enthralling match.
Nonetheless, over two legs, issues will probably be vastly completely different.
The Merseysiders are in a greater place, performance-wise, than earlier this season and can take the sport to Gala.
Ought to Liverpool progress, they’ll face the winners of Chelsea vs PSG within the quarter-finals. The margin for error is slim. The prize is probably huge.
Tottenham vs Atletico Madrid: Model conflict underneath the lights
For Tottenham Hotspur, Atletico Madrid carry knockout pedigree, defensive metal and the form of sport administration that has turn into synonymous with Diego Simeone’s European campaigns.
Commercial
They’re consultants at turning ties into tactical arm-wrestles.
Spurs, in contrast, thrive on tempo, width and attacking incision.
The important thing query will probably be whether or not Tottenham can impose their rhythm over two legs or whether or not Atletico achieve dragging the competition into the trenches.
The latter appears extra possible.
The total highway to Budapest