The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 continues on March 11, 2025, with four highly anticipated matches that will determine the next teams advancing to the quarter-finals. Fans around the world are gearing up for a thrilling night of football as Barcelona, Inter Milan, Bayer Leverkusen, and Liverpool prepare to defend their home turf against fierce opponents.
Barcelona vs. Benfica (18:45 CET)
Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
Barcelona enters this second leg with a slight advantage, having secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg against Benfica. The Catalan club, despite facing injury concerns and suspensions, remains confident in its ability to progress further in the competition. The first-leg goal came from Raphinha, who has been in fine form lately, but their task was made difficult after young defender Pau Cubarsí was sent off.
Benfica, on the other hand, will be missing Ángel Di María, one of their most experienced and creative players. Despite the setback, the Portuguese side will look to overturn the deficit with a strong attacking performance. The likes of João Mário and Rafa Silva will be crucial in Benfica’s attempts to breach Barcelona’s defense.
At home, Xavi’s side will rely on their passionate supporters to push them through, and key players such as Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong will need to step up. Barcelona has shown defensive resilience in recent games, and if they maintain that solidity, they will have a strong chance of securing their place in the quarter-finals.
Inter Milan vs. Feyenoord (21:00 CET)
Venue: San Siro, Milan
Inter Milan will be hosting Feyenoord in what is expected to be a tense encounter at San Siro. Inter is enjoying a strong domestic season, sitting at the top of Serie A, and they will look to carry that momentum into their Champions League campaign.
The first leg between these two sides ended in a closely contested affair, and Inter will look to capitalize on home advantage to get the job done. With players like Lautaro Martínez and Nicolo Barella leading the charge, the Nerazzurri have the firepower to break down Feyenoord’s disciplined defense.
Feyenoord, under the leadership of Arne Slot, has been one of the most exciting teams in the Dutch Eredivisie. Their fast-paced attacking football and organized pressing have caused problems for many opponents this season. If they can produce a solid defensive performance and take their chances on the counterattack, they might just cause an upset.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Bayern Munich (21:00 CET)
Venue: BayArena, Leverkusen
This match promises to be one of the most exciting of the night, as Bayer Leverkusen attempts to mount an extraordinary comeback against Bayern Munich. The first leg ended in a 3-0 win for Bayern, putting them in a commanding position ahead of the return leg.
Bayern Munich, despite a turbulent season by their high standards, remains one of the strongest teams in the tournament. Harry Kane, who has been in superb form since joining the German giants, will look to add to his Champions League goal tally. Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sané will also be key figures in Bayern’s attack.
For Leverkusen, the challenge is massive. They need at least three goals to take the game to extra time, and they will be without their key playmaker Florian Wirtz, who is sidelined due to injury. Manager Xabi Alonso has transformed Leverkusen into a formidable force this season, but this task might be too much to overcome. However, with the BayArena crowd behind them, they will fight until the final whistle.
Liverpool vs. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) (21:00 CET)
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Perhaps the most anticipated clash of the night is between Liverpool and PSG at Anfield. Both teams are known for their attacking styles, and this match is expected to deliver plenty of goals and drama.
Liverpool has been in impressive form this season, with Mohamed Salah leading their attack. With Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, and Dominik Szoboszlai providing support, the Reds have one of the most dangerous frontlines in Europe. Their pressing and high-intensity play will be a key factor in trying to unsettle PSG.
PSG, on the other hand, boasts one of the most talented squads in the world. With Kylian Mbappé leading the charge, they have the ability to score from anywhere. However, their defense has been vulnerable at times, and against Liverpool’s relentless attack, they will need to be at their best.
The first leg was a thrilling contest, with both teams exchanging goals, and this return leg promises to be just as exciting. Jurgen Klopp’s tactical approach and PSG’s counterattacking speed will make for an unpredictable and intense battle.
Final Thoughts
As the Champions League Round of 16 nears its conclusion, these matches will determine which teams make it into the quarter-finals. Barcelona, Inter, Bayern, and Liverpool enter their home fixtures as favorites, but in football, anything can happen. Benfica, Feyenoord, Leverkusen, and PSG will be determined to fight until the last moment, hoping to pull off surprises.
Fans can expect drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments as Europe’s top teams go head-to-head. Whether it’s a last-minute winner, a stunning comeback, or a heroic defensive performance, the Champions League always delivers.
