'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,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'%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Finally, we have got a clear picture of the battles. Not so surprising, yet a few compelling and undeniable fixtures.
Some were lucky enough to get a favourable path, while others have to curse themselves for finishing second or strangely finishing first in the group stage. Here are the winners and losers of the round of 16 draw.
Winners
Even though the draw was not mouth watering (apart from few fixtures), most of the draw is balanced. However, a few got lucky.
#1 Manchester City (Vs Schalke)
With due respect to Schalke, the Premier League team currently sitting second in an all-time entertaining race, and behind the leaders, Liverpool, just by a solitary point, must deep down feel a sense of relief, as they dodged a possible encounter with either Atletico or Ajax.
Schalke may make things a little bit tough for City, but Guardiola’s men will make it eventually, as they very well know their priority this season - they want to conquer Europe.
#2 Barcelona (Vs Lyon)
Barcelona have learned their lessons after getting eliminated at the quarter-final against Roma during last year's Champions League. We can presume that hereafter they will approach play with a sense of caution.
Lyon is obviously not a push over, as they defeated Man City at the Etihad in the group phase. But Barcelona with their experience, especially during the knockout phase, will prevail, but of course they can't take things for granted.
#3 Liverpool (Vs Bayern Munich)
Don't be shocked. Liverpool will edge Bayern just because the Bundesliga giants are confused this season. They are not collective, are inconsistent, and more importantly - are not confident.
Of course, it’s a very strange scenario with Bayern. Liverpool plays the most collective football at the moment, and they are blessed with unbelievable stamina.
An aged Bayern will really struggle against the gegenpress of Liverpool. For Klopp who missed glory with Borussia once, it’s a chance for revenge, and this time he will be the winner.
Losers
#4 Real Madrid (Vs Ajax)
Real Madrid are disoriented this time around, as last season’s winners are clearly lacking the confidence and self-belief. The absence of Cristiano Ronaldo may be felt more than ever.
On the opposite side, Ajax is bubbling with confidence. After a long time, they are enjoying and entertaining in their beloved competition. To put it simple, Ajax has got nothing to lose, whereas Madrid doesn’t have that luxury. This scenario complicates Real’s position.
#5 Juventus (Vs Atletico Madrid)
Juventus really got a tricky draw. On paper they may be favourites, but deep down Juve know something about the unpredictability of the opponent, and also the unquestionable experience of Simeone.
Atletico play as an organised team, especially when the situation demands total team effort. It won't be an easy Madrid homecoming for Ronaldo.
#6 Manchester United (Vs PSG)
It’s a nightmare fixture for United. With the Mourinho saga at last coming to an end, United are more concerned about survival this season. On the other side of the spectrum, PSG are more focused and committed this term. They believe this is the season to show their presence in Europe.
The most unpredictable draw is obviously Tottenham versus Borussia Dortmund. With the first leg at Wembley, Borussia may have a slender advantage, but Spurs enjoy playing outside Wembley nowadays.
