Champions League last-16 first leg: What's cooking in Tuesday's fixtures?

The stage is set for what promises to be an unforgettable series of matches, with the first legs of the Champions League last taking place this week.

Club Brugge vs Aston Villa

Club Brugge are eager to add another English scalp to their list as they take on Aston Villa in the last 16. The Belgians are riding high after a stunning victory over Atalanta in the play-offs, and now they aim to repeat their earlier triumph against Villa in this season's competition. With the home advantage, Brugge hope to carry their momentum into the first leg.

PSV Eindhoven vs Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is counting on the prestige of the Champions League to lift his side from disappointing Premier League recent results. With hopes of securing a league title now fading after a significant points deficit to Liverpool, the Gunners' focus has shifted entirely to European glory.

A favourable draw against PSV Eindhoven in the last 16 offers a chance to recover some confidence. With several key attacking players sidelined, Arsenal will need to rely on their tactical prowess to make it through this tie and stay in the hunt for silverware this season.

Borussia Dortmund vs Lille

Borussia Dortmund, still reeling from their underwhelming Bundesliga campaign, face a tricky test against French side Lille. Sitting in mid-table domestically, Dortmund have struggled to find consistency but come into this match with a two-match winning streak under their belt.

New coach Niko Kovac has managed to steady the ship, and the German side will be hoping their European form can lift them out of their league troubles.

Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid

In one of the most anticipated fixtures of the last 16, two of Spain's heavyweights, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, will face off in a derby that promises to be electric. After a rocky start to the season, Real Madrid have found their rhythm, with their star-studded attacking quartet now firing on all cylinders.

Under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance, Los Blancos are looking to continue their quest for a record-extending 15th European title. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid, under Diego Simeone, will be aiming to cause an upset at the Santiago Bernabeu and give their arch-rivals a tough challenge in this thrilling Madrid derby.

 

March 4, 2025