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All 36 teams have played seven matches each thus far and many remain uncertain of their fates heading into this week’s round of chaos. Whether fighting for automatic passage to the last 16 or simply a knockout play-off berth, much will be decided for the competition’s participants midweek.
This year’s revamped spectacle has rarely failed to inspire and here is how 90min believes Champions League Matchday 8 will pan out.
Most eyes will be on Manchester City this Wednesday. The 2022/23 European champions could be eliminated following a torrid campaign but know that victory at home to Club Brugge will secure their place in the play-off round. The Belgians are 20 matches without defeat and will be seeking to pull off an almighty upset knowing a loss at the Etihad Stadium could eliminate them.
Plenty will be keeping close tabs on Paris Saint-Germain, too. They are the other European giants on the precipice after some underwhelming results on the continent and they face the spirited Stuttgart in their final encounter. A draw would be enough for the French behemoths to reach the play-off round but their German opposition may need victory to secure their berth depending on results elsewhere.
Things are comparatively nerve-free for Liverpool, who currently lead the standings with their perfect record intact. The Reds need just a point to guarantee top spot and are already certain to reach the last 16, with a clash against PSV Eindhoven on the horizon. The Dutch side are yet to ensure their place in the knockout phase but are unlikely to be eliminated.
Barcelona are in a similar position to the current Premier League leaders having confirmed their last 16 place last week. Victory for La Blaugrana on Wednesday and defeat for Liverpool would see …
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