Champions League: Matchday 1 Predictions for September 16 by Dailysports

The tournament that everyone in the football world has been anticipating begins tomorrow.

Details: Tomorrow, top teams from Europe will clash as the UEFA Champions League makes its return. To mark this event, the DailySports team has compiled predictions for each match on tomorrow’s schedule:

Athletic Bilbao – Arsenal London:

• San Mamés is known as a tough venue for visiting teams, and Athletic will look to start strong. However, Arsenal has a stronger squad that can take advantage of any gaps left by Athletic. Our prediction: away win with a 0 handicap (odds 1.5).

PSV – Royal Union SG:

• Both teams are keen to start their Champions League journey with a win. They are fairly matched, but PSV has more European experience and the support of home fans. Our prediction: PSV to win (odds 1.8).

Benfica – Qarabag:

• The Portuguese team is the clear favorite due to their experience and skill. Benfica is expected to dominate the match, while Qarabag might score in response. Nonetheless, the quality difference should lead to a home win. Our prediction: Benfica to win and over 2.5 goals (odds 1.68).

Real Madrid – Marseille:

• Real Madrid looks much stronger than Marseille, especially since the French team struggles in away matches in the Champions League. Madrid’s attacking strength should give them a solid lead by halftime. Even if Marseille manages to score, stopping Real Madrid will be challenging. Our prediction: Real Madrid to win with a -1 handicap (odds 1.86).

Tottenham – Villarreal:

• Both teams like to play offensively, and their European histories support this. Tottenham usually scores at home, while Villarreal is effective on the road. With both teams having defensive issues, this match is likely to see goals from both sides. Our prediction: Both teams to score – Yes (odds 1.67).

Juventus – Borussia Dortmund:

• Both teams favor an attacking style, promising an exciting match. Juventus is likely to take the initiative, while Borussia will focus on quick counterattacks. With defensive weaknesses on both sides, we expect a high-scoring game. Our prediction: Both teams to score – Yes (odds 1.66).

Reminder: Champions League 2025/26: league stage schedule