Champions League Predictions
Champions League Matchweek 2 Preview
As we gear up for another exhilarating round of European football, Matchweek Two of the Champions League promises high-stakes encounters, thrilling goals, and intriguing narratives.
With fixtures spread across both Tuesday and Wednesday, we’ll take a closer look at the standout matchups, and how British sides might fare in their respective games. Let’s dive into the key fixtures and betting insights!
Bet on the Champions League at William Hill
Tuesday, 1st October
Arsenal vs Paris Saint-Germain (20:00)
Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against last season’s Europa League champions, Atalanta. Goalkeeper David Raya was the hero, pulling off a remarkable double save to preserve the point. Paris Saint-Germain, on the other hand, managed a late 1-0 victory over Girona, benefiting from an own goal after a frustrating goalless affair seemed imminent.
Historically, Arsenal have fared well against PSG, remaining unbeaten in their last four meetings. With the home crowd behind them and Raya in stellar form, the odds lean in favour of Arsenal at 8/11 to secure the win. For those looking for a bigger return, Arsenal to win to nil is available at 2/1, offering good value given their solid defence.
Borussia Dortmund vs Celtic (20:00)
Celtic started their campaign with a bang, routing Slovan Bratislava 5-1 in an emphatic performance that saw five different players on the scoresheet. But their next challenge will be significantly tougher as they travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund, who enjoyed an impressive 3-0 away win over Club Brugge.
While Celtic may find the back of the net, Dortmund’s attacking firepower, led by players like Serhou Guirassy, makes it hard to see the Scottish side taking any points here. The pick is for Dortmund to win and both teams to score at 7/4, which reflects Dortmund’s strength at home but also acknowledges Celtic’s recent goalscoring form.
Slovan Bratislava vs Manchester City (20:00)
After Celtic’s demolition of Slovan Bratislava, Manchester City are expected to cruise in their encounter with the Slovakian side. Even if Pep Guardiola decides to rotate his squad, City’s depth is such that even a second-string line-up would likely dominate. The question isn’t whether City will win, but by how many.
For those seeking value, an enticing bet would be Manchester City to win by 4 or more goals, combined with Bernardo Silva having over one shot on target, at an enhanced price of 5/1.
Wednesday, 2nd October
Aston Villa vs Bayern Munich (20:00)
Aston Villa’s return to the Champions League started brightly with a commanding 3-0 win in their opening match. However, they now face an immense challenge as Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s most formidable teams, take to Villa Park. Bayern opened their campaign with a statement-making win and have been in ruthless form in both domestic and European competitions.
Villa will have their work cut out, especially with Bayern stars like Michael Olise, who has netted five goals in his last four appearances, and the ever-prolific Harry Kane leading the line. While Villa may make it a competitive affair, Bayern’s firepower is likely to be too much. The pick here is Bayern Munich to win and both teams to score at 19/10, as Villa’s attack could trouble Bayern’s defence but ultimately fall short.
Liverpool vs Bologna (20:00)
Liverpool have hit the ground running this season, looking confident and free-scoring both domestically and in Europe. Their convincing victory over AC Milan in the opening week set the tone for what could be a deep run in this competition. Bologna, meanwhile, struggled to a 0-0 draw at home to Shakhtar Donetsk, and if they couldn’t score at home, they’ll face an uphill battle trying to break through at Anfield.
With Liverpool’s form and the home advantage, it’s difficult to see anything other than a comfortable win for Arne Slot’s side. Federico Chiesa, who is no stranger to facing Bologna from his Serie A days, is priced at 23/20 to score anytime. A safe bet could be Liverpool to win to nil, priced at 19/20, reflecting their strong defensive record and Bologna’s lack of attacking threat.
