The second games of the play-off are played on matchday 10, and that always changes the dynamic.
Some sides will push, others will protect a lead, and that makes picking the right teams even more important in UCL Fantasy.
Here we look at the standout fixtures and the clubs that look worth investing in for the upcoming round.
WHO HAS THE BEST LUMINAIRES?
Newcastle’s The patchy form didn’t show up at all on Matchday 9. The Magpies blew Qarabag away with a 6-1 win and backed it up with a huge 5.69 xG, so it was no fluke. They created chance after chance and were ruthless in front of goal. Now they head into the second leg at St James’ Park on an even stronger hand, and it’s hard not to see more chances for Fantasy returns against the Azerbaijani side.
PSG had to weather an early storm against Monaco, conceding twice in the opening 18 minutes, but they responded well with three goals of their own to take control of the match. Back home for the second stage, Luis Enrique’s side will be keen to avoid another slow start. If they settle down quicker this time, there’s a good chance we’ll see a more controlled and convincing performance from the French champion.
Real Madrid also come into matchday 10 in a strong position. After that 4-2 defeat on matchday 8, they showed their response by winning on matchday 9 at the same ground. Now they return to the Bernabéu, which remains one of the most difficult places to visit in Europe. Benfica have a mountain to climb and it would be no surprise if Madrid took firm control of the game on home soil.
WHO ELSE CAN WE CONSIDER?
Club Brugge conceded more than two goals per game during the league phase, and that’s not a record you want going into a second leg away from home. Atletico Madridmeanwhile, have been strong in their own areas and tend to raise their level in these situations. With the Spanish side hosting this week, the match is off to a good start for them and their key assets look well in play.
Below I also feel well placed to respond. The 3-1 defeat last time raised a few eyebrows, and the rotation may well have played a role. At home against Bodo/Glimt, who have already earned the title of ‘giant killer’, you would still expect a reaction if Christian Chivu fielded a stronger side. If Inter come close to full strength, there is a chance of a big win, which of course puts the players back on the radar.
Leverkusen handled a difficult first leg in Greece better than many expected. A trip to Olympiakos is never easy, but they still came away with both a goal and a clean sheet. Now that we’re home, the tie looks much more comfortable on paper. That shift in setting makes them one of the most attractive teams to return to Matchday 10.
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