The Champions League quarterfinals are set, featuring Arsenal, Inter, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain. While PSG`s journey from a lower league phase position is notable, the remaining teams largely reflect the top contenders. Half of these teams, PSG and Arsenal, are seeking their first Champions League title, guaranteeing a newcomer in the final. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Inter, former champions, are aiming to regain their past glory in a direct matchup.
With these strong teams remaining, it`s time to assess their chances for the Champions League trophy. Can Arsenal compete with the attacking power of Barcelona or PSG? And is this Inter team stronger than the one that reached the final two seasons ago against Manchester City?
4. Inter
Arsenal and Inter are very closely matched, making them hard to differentiate. Lautaro Martinez has been outstanding in this Champions League, scoring eight goals and becoming increasingly influential as Inter advances. Inter boasts a competition-leading eight clean sheets, showcasing Simone Inzaghi’s team`s tactical flexibility for both defensive and high-scoring games. However, beyond Martinez and Marcus Thuram, it`s uncertain if Inter can consistently overcome teams with intense attacking prowess.
Their victory against Bayern Munich is impressive, but Bayern is currently in a rebuilding phase, aiming to reach Inter`s current level. Their upcoming match against Barcelona will be a true test of their capabilities against top-tier opposition.
3. Arsenal
Despite Real Madrid`s recent inconsistencies, Arsenal`s ability to neutralize their attack is remarkable, especially with a third-choice center back, Jakub Kiwior, and an 18-year-old left back, Myles Lewis-Skelly. Echoing Matt Busby`s sentiment, `If you`re good enough, you`re old enough,` these young defenders effectively limited Real Madrid to low-quality shots and minimal dangerous opportunities. Even a penalty miss from Bukayo Saka didn`t deter Arsenal`s victory.
As long as Saka and Martin Odegaard remain fit, Arsenal has the potential to win the Champions League. However, facing more balanced teams than Real Madrid, Mikel Arteta must ensure his team avoids being overwhelmed.
2. PSG
PSG has become arguably the most formidable team in world football since the start of the year. Luis Enrique’s squad possesses immense capabilities. The dynamic play of Ousman Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is exceptional, and when PSG attacks, stopping them becomes incredibly difficult, often relying on missed chances. Even their full-backs, Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi, contribute significantly to the attack, while the midfield maintains excellent balance.
PSG’s main weakness is the absence of a traditional number nine striker. Their aggressive, never-defending style can lead to both high-scoring wins and losses. Few teams can match their attacking output over two legs, making their potential clash with Arsenal a potentially grueling contest.
1. Barcelona
Similar to the close ranking of Inter and Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG are also very closely matched. The deciding factor might be the impact of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Both Barcelona and PSG prioritize attack, possess talented young players like Lamine Yamal, and are capable of deciding games in various ways. A Champions League final between them would be highly anticipated, but significant challenges lie ahead.
A striker like Martinez could exploit Barcelona`s offside trap, posing a significant tactical challenge for Barcelona`s defense. Inter`s defensive strategy will be crucial. Stopping Barcelona`s attack requires a team effort, as even if their primary attackers are contained, players like Pedri can emerge from midfield to threaten. Barcelona seems to have solutions for every challenge, giving them a slight edge over PSG.
