Champions League/Europa: What to Watch?

Somehow when you look at the result of both draws, the Europa matches seem to be more exciting. One of the main reasons, of course is because many top teams are going to compete in the lower league this season. So, which teams will us watch?


1. FC Porto vs Manchester City

Former Europa champion Porto joins the Europa league this year, because they only managed to come in third during Champions League group stage. Man City, the Premier League new power too, joins the Europa league as they failed to qualify in their group. What will happen when these two teams face each other?
Our Prediction: Porto will draw City at home, but City will beat Porto at home. Man City qualify.

2. Stoke City vs Valencia

Stoke is the only Premier League team that qualified from their group in Europa. Tottenham, Fulham, and Birmingham all failed to reach second round (maybe the ‘ham’ in their names is a curse?). Stoke is not an easy team especially when they play at home, they are physical, tough and hard to beat, so Valencia can expect some hard time against them.
Our Prediction: Stoke will win at home. Valencia will win at home too. So…it will be up to goal difference ;)

3. AC Milan vs Arsenal

Among the Champions League round of 16, I think this is the most interesting combination. When I say interesting, it means the outcome is hard to predict. AC Milan managed to score 4 goals against Barcelona, and Arsenal style is similar to Barcelona but more physical, so it is hard to tell who will be the winner in the end.
Our Wild Guess: AC Milan will lose to Arsenal at home. Arsenal will draw AC Milan at home. So..Arsenal through I think.

4. Chelsea vs Napoli

Not a good draw for Chelsea in my opinion. Napoli beats Man City for a reason, they know how to deal with Premier League club and Chelsea isn’t at their best this season. Chelsea has problems from front to back, so it won’t be easy for them to play against Napoli.
Our Prediction: Napoli qualifies.

For me, I think the Europa league is more interesting to watch. Because many good teams are playing in it this time which will definitely make it more competitive! Champions League on the other hand, although lost some big teams, there are some new faces in it. Hopefully these new faces can surprise us. So what are your prediction for the two Europe leagues?