The short distance between the two rounds of the Champions League is a time when fans of some teams take screenshots of the tournament standings and want the playoff lineup to be decided right now. For example, Qarabağ is in 6th place thanks to two victories, while Manchester City, Barcelona, and Liverpool are trailing behind the Azerbaijani champions. However, very soon, a lot will change. 1xBet has prepared a preview for the Champions League third round for you.
Arsenal vs Atlético, October 21
Arsenal’s defense hasn’t lost a single point or conceded a goal in two rounds. Mikel Arteta has turned the Gunners into a pragmatic machine, capable of punishing any rival for their mistakes while staying flawless at the back. Still, injuries occasionally disrupt this precision, preventing the team from operating at full strength.
In the first round, Atlético came to England and lost to Liverpool (2-3). But even in that challenging game, the Madrid team showed great character and almost managed to escape a situation that looked hopeless. After that, Atlético showed its true strength, crushing Real (5-2) and Eintracht Frankfurt (5-1).
Bayer vs Paris Saint-Germain, October 21
After Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, Leverkusen remained unbeaten. However, Bayer also failed to win in the Champions League, and Paris Saint-Germain, an official partner of 1xBet, will be the first severe test for Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand.
The reigning Champions League winners are gradually seeing their injury list shrink, but even with losses in the lineup, the team has demonstrated a winning mentality. Only a powerful team could have earned six points in matches against Atalanta (4-0) and Barcelona (2-1 away).
Villarreal vs Manchester City, October 21
Marcelino would be delighted to repeat the results of 2006 and 2022, when Villarreal reached the Champions League semifinals. The experienced coach has brought out the best in Nicolas Pépé and Tajon Buchanan and also made his team more versatile. After struggles against Tottenham (0-1) and Juventus (2-2), Villarreal is eager to secure a victory.
Man City has earned 4 points in two rounds and intends to extend its unbeaten streak. The squad is undergoing restructuring, but remains heavily reliant on its veteran players. For example, Erling Haaland has already scored three goals in the current Champions League season.
Real Madrid vs Juventus, October 22
These teams have met twice in the Champions League final. The rivalry between Real Madrid and Juventus is often regarded as a classic in European football.
The Turin club is breaking away from the typical pragmatism of Italian football. Juventus have scored 6 goals in two Champions League matches but have drawn both games. Igor Tudor will have his work cut out improving the defensive setup to stop Kylian Mbappé — the Frenchman has already netted five goals against Marseille (2-1) and Kairat (5-0).
Enjoy the top Champions League matches with 1xBet!
