Without meaning to tempt fate, Liverpool look likely to be in the hat for the Champions League semi-final draw on 13th April. While the Reds’ defending this season has been iffy at times this season, one would imagine that a 3-0 cushion will be enough for the second leg, even if it is against Manchester City.
However, Liverpool were not alone in handing out big defeats to their quarter-final opponents, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid taking three-goal leads into the second leg. It would also be a massive shock if Sevilla can turn around a 2-1 deficit to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.
Realistically, it looks like Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern will be in the draw for yet another Champions League semi-final. Obviously, facing any of the trio would be a daunting task for Liverpool, but they also have some weaknesses that have been exposed this season.
Here is a quick look at those (potential) opponents.
Barcelona
They have coasted through La Liga unbeaten this season without really looking like they were back to the best. Part of their dominance is down to Madrid stuttering in the league, with Atlético also not getting off to a great start.
Still, that should not take away from the fact that they are still an outstanding side, albeit one that is vastly different to the tiki-taka side of a few years ago. They have been made 12/5 favourites for the Champions League and it’s hard to argue with that. If you want a free shot at backing Barcelona, Liverpool (6/1) or anyone else, check out these 2018 Free bets no deposit offers from major bookmakers.
Real Madrid
A team that can go from the sublime to the ridiculous in a matter of a week, nobody can really put their finger on what is wrong with Real Madrid in La Liga this season. However, there is a renewed sense of optimism since that 3-0 thrashing of Juventus in Turin.
You also have to say that one can never write off Ronaldo. He was supposed to be having a poor season, yet he has still managed to steal all the headlines in Europe. Madrid are 3/1 to win the Champions League, but a better bet might be for their main man Ronaldo to win the Balon d’Or once again at 11/2. His form in Europe in recent weeks may just tip him over the edge against his perennial rivals Messi and Neymar.
Bayern Munich
Of all Europe’s elite teams, Bayern have probably gone under the radar more than anyone else. They have been terrifyingly good since the return of Jupp Heynckes in the autumn.
If you need any evidence of why they should be considered Europe’s best team at the moment, check out their recent 6-0 demolition of rivals Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker last week. The squad is just ridiculously deep with talent, but that is more of a luxury anyway as they have the Bundesliga wrapped up. They are 7/2 third-favourites for the Champions League, some would argue that they should be outright favourites.
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