Liverpool vs Barcelona
8th May, 3am WST
Liverpool down 3-0 in the Champions League. We’ve been here before, but this time they have an entire match, at home, to rectify the situation.
The 3-0 loss in leg one doesn’t paint the picture of how well Liverpool actually played. The Reds had more shots (one less on target) and more possession than Barcelona with manager Jurgen Klopp calling it their best away performance in Europe in two years. Despite the heavy loss, Liverpool showed they are not out of their depth against the world’s best, and will take confidence returning home to a venue where they are unbeaten in 19 matches.
Barcelona won’t be taking this match lightly. They’ll be desperate for an early away goal, something not many teams have managed at Anfield. The Spanish League champions have also had their struggles away from home, winning just five of their last 18 Champions League away knockout ties.
Lionel Messi put on an incredible display in the first leg. He was untouchable, finishing off the performance with a stunning free kick goal. If he repeats that here, it could be lights out very early for Liverpool.
With Liverpool needing at least three goals, and Barcelona hunting what could be a clinching away goal, I think we’ll see an open affair with plenty of genuine chances for both sides. While the three goal deficit might be a bridge too far, I can see the Reds winning this leg, defending home field like they have all year.
Suggested Bet: Match Result Liverpool & Over 2.5 Goals @ $3.20*
Ajax vs Tottenham
9th May, 3am WST
A 1-0 win at Tottenham’s new stadium brings Ajax one step closer to their first Champions League Final since 1996. It also brings with it two things they won’t have felt for much of this tournament – pressure and expectation. No longer the underdog, it will be fascinating to see if the Dutch side change their attacking style of play.
Tottenham have been on the nose since losing Harry Kane to injury. In the Premier League they look like a side desperate for the finishing line, and while they had their moments in leg one, they managed just the one shot on target. The Spurs do welcome back Son Heung-Min from suspension – he is a huge addition for their attack.
Ajax play high-octane football. They take risks and they score goals. They’re the only side to have scored in every game this tournament and there’s nothing to suggest they’ll shy away from that identity here. With Tottenham needing to attack, the match will open up, meaning Ajax could very well feast on their visitors – particularly on the counter.
The Spurs have not travelled well in this tournament, having won just one of their five away games. And in all competitions they have lost five straight when playing outside of London. Meanwhile Ajax have seen 3+ goals in 13 of their last 14 matches in all competitions. Expect this trend to continue and Ajax to advance to the Final in style.
Suggested Bet: Match Result Ajax & Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.95*
*Odds correct as at 8pm WST 6th May 2019.
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