Manchester City seek revenge against Barcelona, while Dortmund try to leave their domestic woes behind in tonight’s Champions League ties.
With the exception of Real Madrid’s win against Schalke, last week’s second round ties were all low-scoring, tight games.
We expect tonight to be a different story entirely.
Manchester City and Barcelona are not partial to parking the bus, while Dortmund can’t afford to be cautious considering their season is hanging by a thread.
Here’s our view…
Manchester City v Barcelona
Tonight, 7:45
This one has more sub-plots than a Guy Ritchie film.
Firstly, it’s a repeat of last season’s last 16 tie where Manuel Pellegrini’s side lost both legs and were knocked out on a 4-1 aggregate scoreline.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkSZCa2Xr1I
Secondly, it’s the first time Luis Suarez will play in England since his summer move from Anfield.
Thirdly, Wilfried Bony could make his first start for City and finally, inspirational midfielder Yaya Touré is out injured.
See, we told you there was a lot happening.
With the exception of Saturday’s surprise loss to Malaga, Barcelona’s form has been excellent in recent weeks.
Before the Malaga game, they’d won 11 consecutive games.
City, on the other hand, have failed to win five of their last seven games.
We fancy a great game here with plenty of goals and Barca to come out on top.
Prediction: 2-3
Juventus v Borussia Dortmund
Tonight, 7:45
These two sides’ domestic form could hardly be more different.
Juventus are free-wheeling to yet another Serie A championship, while Dortmund are languishing in 12th position in the Bundesliga.
Still, you would be foolish to write off the Germans; doesn’t the old cliché say as much?
Earlier in the season their Bundesliga struggle looked far more serious, yet they still managed to finish top of a Champions League group that featured Arsenal and Anderlecht.
The Italians are no pushovers either.
They will be boosted by the return of midfield maestro Arturo Vidal and will be pushing for only their second last eight appearance since 2006.
We’re backing a score draw in this and for Dortmund to scrape through in the second leg.
Prediction: 2-2
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