With only two rounds remaining in the bloated UEFA Champions League league phase, things are getting interesting, and several big names are at risk of an early exit. Liverpool has maintained an unbeaten record in their first six games and is currently leading the group with 18 points. However, PSG is standing 25th despite their facile victory over Red Bull Salzburg and their next game will be against Manchester City – currently ranking 22nd.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid have eased their fear of an early exit with a crucial win against Atalanta, while Bayern Munich are hoping for a top-eight finish. But which teams have a strong chance of mounting a serious trophy campaign this season? Here is a preview of the odds on favorites and how each side is looking so far.
Liverpool (+404)
Liverpool is the only team that has a perfect 100% winning record so far. The Reds have earned the full marks in their first six games, notching a 1-0 victory in their last away match against Girona. Mohamed Salah shot on target from the penalty line and has recorded 15 goals across 20 matches in the UCL and Premier League this season. The Egyptian legend is expected to keep adding to his tally, making Liverpool the favorite to win the trophy this season.
Barcelona (+657)
Barcelona is among the most exciting sides in Europe thanks to their stellar forward players and risky high line. The Balugrana are sanding second with 15 points after their fifth consecutive win, which mathematically guarantees them a playoff spot if they can manage to record one more point from their games against Atalanta and Benfica.
Obviously, Barcelona is still a work in progress with Hansi Flick and they recorded mixed performances in La Liga, but they have beaten both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid this season. The Spanish giant is clearly emerging as a force to contend with this season and you can check their odds of winning their upcoming UCL games at Win Comparator.
Arsenal (+601)
While Arsenal's lack of solid No 9 has made some fans skeptical of their ability to challenge for the UCL trophy, the North Londoners seem to be changing the tide. Mikel Arteta’s side is starting to look like their exciting self thanks to the return of their creator-in-chief and captain Martin Odegaard after nursing his injury. Odegaard is a major threat to key players and the Gunners are currently ranking third, which suggests they have a strong chance of going all the way his season.
Bayern Munich (+706)
This season has been a rough ride for Bayern Munich under manager Vincent Kompany. The Belgian side started their campaign scoring freely before focusing on their defense. However, the German side displayed their attacking prowess again in their 5-1 victory against Shakhtar Donetsk where Michael Olise recorded two goals and an assist.
Bayern Munich’s win was also more impressive considering their star striker Harry Kane was absent due to an injury. That shows their team is well positioned to finish their UCL campaign among the top eight considering their upcoming games are against Feyenoord and Slovan Bratislava.
