Champions League Round of 16 – First Leg Predictions

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 kicks off with some high-stakes clashes. Here’s a look at the key matches, form guides, and betting predictions for the first legs.

📅 10/03/2026 – Galatasaray vs Liverpool

First Leg

Galatasaray arrive in strong domestic form, boasting three consecutive wins. The Istanbul atmosphere will be key, and the hosts have already shown they can trouble Liverpool, winning the last meeting 1–0 at home.

Liverpool remain dangerous going forward but have been somewhat inconsistent. European away ties can be tricky, particularly in a hostile environment like Istanbul.

Predictions:

• ⚽ Galatasaray or Draw @ 2.00

• ⚽ Both Teams to Score: Yes @ 1.52

• ⚽ Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.53

• ⚽ Victor Osimhen to Score @ 2.40

📅 10/03/2026 – Newcastle vs Barcelona

First Leg

Newcastle’s recent form has been mixed, with three defeats in their last four games despite scoring regularly. Defensive lapses have been a concern, particularly against top opposition.

Barcelona arrive in excellent momentum, winning four of their last five matches with a sharp attacking display. They also claimed victory in the previous meeting this season. With Newcastle vulnerable at the back, the visitors look well-positioned to take control of this tie.

Predictions:

• ⚽ Barcelona or Draw @ 1.40

• ⚽ Both Teams to Score: Yes @ 1.42

• ⚽ Over 1.5 Goals @ 1.15

• ⚽ Lamine Yamal to Score @ 2.65

📅 11/03/2026 – Real Madrid vs Man City

First Leg

For the fifth consecutive season, Real Madrid face Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stages. Historical meetings have been tight, but City come unbeaten in their last 11 games, while Madrid will be without Rodrygo, Bellingham, and Mbappé.

Expect a competitive clash, with both sides capable of goals.

Predictions:

• ⚽ Draw or Manchester City @ 1.30

• ⚽ Both Teams to Score: Yes @ 1.50

• ⚽ Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.57

• ⚽ Erling Haaland to Score @ 1.74

📅 11/03/2026 –  PSG vs Chelsea

First Leg

PSG enter this tie with mixed results but remain dangerous at home. They will be looking to take revenge on Chelsea after their loss in the Club World Cup final.

Chelsea arrive in strong attacking form, scoring freely in recent games, though their defense has shown occasional vulnerabilities. With revenge on PSG’s mind, expect an open and competitive first leg.

Predictions:

• ⚽ PSG to Win @ 1.85

• ⚽ Both Teams to Score: Yes @ 1.55

• ⚽ Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.59

• ⚽ Bradley Barcola to Score @ 2.75