The epic 2019/20 UEFA Champions League peaked with four teams qualifying for the semifinals’ clash. England, France, Spain, and Germany are represented by one team each. Two matches each for the semis are scheduled for August 18 and 19 in Lisbon.
FC Barcelona vs Bayern Munich
In the Quarterfinals, Barcelona drowned Napoli after a 7-1 goals’ aggregate. With a fit Lionel Messi, they will have a chance, but against a well-oiled Bayern Munich machine, led by Robert Lewandowski, the Germans have the edge. The Germans brushed aside Chelsea after a 4-1 defeat in the second leg. Hansi Flick’s side has all the players they need and the relentless desire to come good this season as they have shown in scoring 31 goals in eight UCL matches this season.
Barcelona have been wobbly. Though they produced an outstanding performance against Napoli in the last round, in all, they have scored just 13 goals in their eight matches and have conceded six – keeping only two clean sheets. You suspect that if they are to get an excellent result against Bayern, then their defense will need to keep a clean sheet, a scenario that looks improbable.
Manchester City v Olympique Lyonnais
After knocking out Juventus, Lyon will face Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s team have a tremendous work ethic that is encapsulated by the work by their three most forward players. This pressing led City to two wins over Real Madrid, and they are now obviously one of the favourites for the 2020 UCL edition.
In the eight matches played in the competition this season, City have won six and drawn two – the two draws came in their inconsequential matches in the group stage. They have scored in every match – 20 goals – and conceded six times while Lyon have lost thrice in eight matches – scoring just 11 goals and conceding nine. Man City qualified after beating Real Madrid on a 4-2 goals’ aggregate.
