Former Liverpool and Manchester United striker, Michael Owen, has predicted Real Madrid to beat Atalanta in tonight’s UEFA Champions League last-16, first-leg clash at Atleti Azzurri d’Italia in Bergamo, Italy.
Owen also predicted Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to beat Borussia Monchengladbach at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary.
Providing his predictions, Owen told BetVictor: “After racking up four wins in a row, Real Madrid are starting to resemble the Los Blancos’ we’ve all become accustomed to. Messrs Modric, Kroos and Casemiro have all come alive and despite being on the brink of exiting this tournament in the group stages, they now must be considered as outright contenders.
“However, first, they must overcome a tricky knockout tie against Atalanta. The Serie A side is known for their attacking flair and come into this in good form.
“The Italians have lost just one of their last 11 home games, winning eight. What’s more, they have scored at least three goals in nine of those matches.
“Usually, first leg ties can be cagey, but I don’t think this will be the case here. If Atalanta goes for it, I think they’ll leave themselves open at the back. If that materialises, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Real Madrid take full advantage and travel back to the Spanish capital with a win. Atalanta 1, Real Madrid 2.”
Speaking on the Monchengladbach vs Manchester City game, Owen said, “Borussia Monchengladbach earned themselves plaudits in the group stages and rightfully so. However, the Bundesliga side has lost two of their last three matches. That’s not the type of form you want with Manchester City on the horizon.
“City are really gathering momentum. There is no denying the UEFA Champions League is a priority not just for Pep but for the club owners.
“This season may represent their best chance of landing it, and with that in mind, I think they will be well up for this.
“I’m expecting another strong City performance and think they’ll take a win back to the Etihad. Monchengladbach 0, Manchester City 2.”
The kick-off time for all the games is 9 pm, Nigerian time.
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