Champions League: our top picks for the first matchday

The Champions League season 2024-2025 is kicking off for in its new competition format on Tuesday, 17 September. Already we have some truly juicy encounters to look forward to! We’ve made our pick of the must-see matchups, and give you some quick pointers to help guide you towards winning bets.

Juventus vs PSV Eindhoven

17/09 6.45 p.m.

Most likely to win: Juventus

This one’s kind of an uneven battle. Juve shouldn’t have to many problems beating PSV, but the Dutch team might very well get a goal in.

AC Milan vs Liverpool

17/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Liverpool

Talk about a clash of the titans! This heated encounter could go either way on any given day, but we’re giving Liverpool the benefit of the doubt.

Club Bruges vs Borussia Dortmund

18/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Borussia Dortmund

JPL stalwart Club Bruges has been drawn into a group that is as mouthwatering as it is daunting. Dortmund should have this one in the bag.

Manchester City vs Inter Milan

18/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Manchester City

Another fixture that has all the buzz of a final already – at least on paper. Inter isn’t what it’s used to be, though, so a Man City win is a safe choice.

Paris Saint-Germain vs Girona

18/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Paris Saint-Germain

Can PSG finally taste CL success, now that the format’s changed? The French should be off to a good start against Girona, last year’s La Liga revelation.

Atalanta vs Arsenal

19/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Arsenal

This is a pretty balanced matchup, so a closed, tactical affair might be in the works. Expect Arsenal to get the best of Atalanta by the end, though.

Atlético Madrid vs RB Leipzig

19/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Atlético Madrid

Arthur Vermeeren must have mixed feeling about this one: he’s on loan from Atlético to Leipzig. His employer from Spain is expected to beat the “Roten Bullen”.

AS Monaco vs Barcelona

19/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Barcelona

Barça has been working long and hard to claim back the European football throne. It shouldn’t know too many problems against Monaco.