The Champions League Round Three: Expert Predictions for Matchday Action

As the Champions League returns for its third matchday this week, anticipation builds among football fans and bettors alike. With star-studded lineups and intense competition, our football expert shares his top five selections, providing insight into the upcoming fixtures and predicting how teams will fare as they vie for glory on Europe’s biggest stage.

Predictions for Champions League Matchday Three

Odds provided by 1xBet. Correct at the time of publication and subject to change.

Real Madrid vs. Dortmund: La Liga Champions to Secure a Narrow Win

• Date: 23/10/2024
• Kick-off: 12:30 AM
• Betting Odds: Real Madrid to win @1.44 on 1xBet (correct as of 20/10/24).

After an impressive weekend, where Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior were instrumental in Real Madrid’s triumph over Celta Vigo, the La Liga champions are desperate to turn the tide in the Champions League following a surprising 1-0 defeat to Lille. Facing a Dortmund side that currently tops their group, the task won’t be easy. However, Real Madrid’s home advantage should prove crucial.

Dortmund’s recent 7-1 demolition of Celtic showcased their attacking prowess, yet Thursday night at the Santiago Bernabéu will present a completely different challenge. The home crowd and Madrid’s formidable lineup, driven by a rich heritage of Champions League success, positions them as slight favorites. Expect a tightly-contested match, but Carlo Ancelotti’s men may just edge it on home soil.

Atalanta vs. Celtic: Italians Set for a Routine Win

• Date: 23/10/2024
• Kick-off: 10:15 PM
• Betting Odds: Atalanta to win @1.40 on 1xBet (correct as of 20/10/24).

Celtic finds itself in a precarious position following their recent heavy defeat against Dortmund, and the road does not get any easier in Italy. Atalanta has shown they are formidable opponents, displaying vibrant attacking football and a strong home record. Their ability to dominate a match was highlighted in their 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk, providing them with confidence as they prepare to host the Scottish champions.

Celtic will be keen to improve, but facing Atalanta away from home, especially after such a devastating loss, is a tall order. Expect the Italians to come through with a comfortable victory, capitalizing on Celtic’s vulnerability.

Barcelona vs. Bayern: Visitors to Spring a Surprise

• Date: 24/10/2024
• Kick-off: 12:30 AM
• Betting Odds: Bayern to win @2.75 on 1xBet (correct as of 20/10/24).

In a clash of giants, Barcelona’s persistent injury issues may open the door for Bayern Munich to snatch an unexpected win at Camp Nou. While Barcelona’s attacking flair is legendary, the absence of their key players could severely hamper their performance.

Bayern, under the tactical acumen of Vincent Kompany, recently bounced back from a shock defeat against Aston Villa, demonstrating their resilience with a staggering 9-2 victory over Dinamo Zagreb followed by a 4-0 drubbing of Stuttgart, where Harry Kane’s hat-trick shone brightly. The Bavarians, with their deep bench of attacking talent, look primed to exploit Barcelona’s weaknesses and create one of the surprises of the round.

Leipzig vs. Liverpool: Slot to Collect Three Points

• Date: 24/10/2024
• Kick-off: 12:30 AM
• Betting Odds: Liverpool to win @1.90 on 1xBet (correct as of 20/10/24).

Leipzig’s struggles in the Champions League are compounded by a shaky start that saw them lose both of their matches. With pressure mounting, they must face a Liverpool side that has started the group stage with two wins and is in terrific form. Under Arne Slot, Liverpool’s confidence is sky-high following multiple victories across all competitions.

Meanwhile, Leipzig’s lack of Champions League experience is evident, particularly as they’ve faced relatively weaker opposition in the Bundesliga compared to Liverpool’s strength. The Reds are poised to secure another important victory, and advancing closer to the knockout stages could be on the horizon.

Salzburg vs. Dinamo Zagreb: Another Disaster-Class for the Hosts

• Date: 24/10/2024
• Kick-off: 12:30 AM
• Betting Odds: Dinamo Zagreb to win @4.33 on 1xBet (correct as of 20/10/24).

Salzburg’s tough start to this Champions League season has seen them concede seven goals without scoring any, raising questions about their defensive organization and overall strategy. Recent domestic results, including a humiliating 5-0 loss to Sturm Graz, heighten concerns for Salzburg as they prepare for this encounter.

In contrast, Dinamo Zagreb has demonstrated resilience, bouncing back from a defeat against Bayern with a spirited draw against Monaco. Having remained unbeaten in their last five matches, they appear energized and ready to capitalize on Salzburg’s fragility. Expect a solid performance from the visitors, potentially marking an upset as Salzburg aims to rectify their dismal start.

Conclusion

As we gear up for an exhilarating matchday, the expectations are high. Routine wins are anticipated for Real Madrid and Atalanta at home, while Bayern and Liverpool appear ready to make strides on their respective journeys. Yet, the most intriguing storyline may unfold in Austria, where Dinamo Zagreb could deliver a stunning upset against a shaky Salzburg outfit. As always, remember to gamble responsibly as you peruse these predictions ahead of the action-packed week in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.