Throughout the Champions League there is always something to play for, even in a group-stage match with seemingly little at stake. But with favorable draws for the front-runners in the round of 16, we’re looking ahead — who are the odds on favorites to win at the halfway mark?
Who are the favorites?
Leading the charge in this epic showdown is none other than defending champions Man City, who carved a path of destruction through Group G with six wins and a jaw-dropping goal differential. With a flawless domestic record and the return of star players Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne from injury, City is a force to be reckoned with. De Bruyne’s midfield brilliance and Haaland’s lethal finishing make them a duo capable of breaking any defense.
Could City be on the brink of making history with back-to-back titles, a feat not seen since Real Madrid’s dominance in 2017? They are currently touted to go the distance at 6/4.
Potential outsiders
While it’s great to back the favorites, there is no tournament quite like the Champions League when it comes to the potential for upsets. Websites like Oddschecker.com make it easy to scout out not just the favorites for every match, but also the most competitive bonus bets for dark horses in the race. In the unpredictable world of European football, surprises lurk around every corner.
Inter Milan have emerged as a force to be reckoned with after beating Atletico Madrid 1-0 at San Siro. The Italian giants are 10/1 to take home the title, but with only two losses across all competitions this season, they shouldn’t be underestimated. They boast a formidable defense that has left opponents trembling.
Meanwhile, Arsenal finds themselves facing an uphill battle after a tough first leg against Porto. As a result, Mikel Arteta’s side have drifted to 13/2 to win the trophy and right now need to dig deep just to keep their Champions League dreams alive. If they do, it’s all to play for again.
Real Madrid, perennial contenders with odds of 9/2, are also determined to add another trophy to their illustrious cabinet — a record-extending 15th European Cup. However, with Karim Benzema gone and injuries to key players Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois, there’s no denying the side have their own challenges to contend with.
And then there’s Barcelona, eager to redeem themselves after last season’s early exit. Topping Group H this time around, Barcelona is determined to prove their mettle and make a deep run in the tournament. With odds of 7/1, they’re certainly not lacking in ambition.
While Man City may be the odds on favorite, it’s still all to play for in the Champions League.
