Champions League 2024/25: Second-Leg Showdowns Set to Decide Semi-Finalists
Apr 15, 2025 by
Transferhunt News
• 3 minute read
Champions League semis near: Arsenal, PSG, Barça & Inter lead; Real, Villa, Bayern, and Dortmund eye comebacks in second-leg clashes.
Can Arsenal Shock Madrid Again? Will PSG and Barcelona Finish the Job?
The Champions League quarter-final second legs kick off this week, with just four spots available in the semi-finals of Europe’s most prestigious competition. Last week’s first legs brought no draws—only goals, drama, and a reminder of why this tournament remains football's pinnacle.
Some clubs are in pole position. Others face an uphill climb to stage a famous European comeback. Here's what to expect as the ties reach their conclusion.
Tuesday, 15 April
Paris Saint-Germain vs Aston Villa
PSG are eyeing their long-awaited European breakthrough after dispatching Liverpool in the Round of 16. Their 3-1 first-leg win over Aston Villa has them poised to reach the semis. Nuno Mendes' stoppage-time goal in Paris gave them a valuable cushion.
Villa Park, however, is no easy place to visit. Unai Emery’s side may be trailing, but they’ve shocked bigger teams before. Overturning a two-goal deficit won’t be easy, but they’re not out yet.
Barcelona vs Borussia Dortmund
Barcelona all but sealed their spot in the final four with a commanding 4-0 home win over Borussia Dortmund. Niko Kovac’s men were outclassed in every department and now face mission impossible at Signal Iduna Park. With their first semi-final since 2019 in sight, Barça just need to manage the return leg professionally.
Wednesday, 16 April
Real Madrid vs Arsenal
Arsenal stunned the football world with a 3-0 win over reigning champions Real Madrid at the Emirates. Declan Rice’s two free-kick screamers helped dismantle Los Blancos in one of Arsenal’s finest European nights.
But the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu will test the Gunners' mettle. Madrid’s history of legendary comebacks is unmatched, and they’ll throw everything at Arteta’s side. This one is far from over.
Inter Milan vs Bayern Munich
In a rematch of the 2010 final, Inter Milan edged Bayern 2-1 in Germany thanks to goals from Lautaro Martinez and Davide Frattesi. Now back at the San Siro, Inter will look to protect their lead and extend their unbeaten streak to 13 matches.
Bayern, on the verge of reclaiming their domestic crown, face a stern test against Inzaghi’s disciplined and in-form side. It’s a classic clash of European heavyweights, and one mistake could decide it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which teams are currently leading in the quarter-final ties?
PSG, Barcelona, Arsenal, and Inter Milan all hold aggregate leads after the first legs.
Can Aston Villa or Real Madrid pull off a comeback?
Villa’s task is difficult but not impossible at home. Madrid, known for miracle comebacks, could still turn things around at the Bernabeu.
Who looks most likely to reach the semi-finals?
Barcelona and PSG seem safest, given their multi-goal leads. Arsenal and Inter are in strong positions but face tough away matches.
When were the last Champions League titles for these teams?
Real Madrid: 2022
Barcelona: 2015
Bayern Munich: 2020
Inter Milan: 2010
Arsenal & PSG: Yet to win
Aston Villa: 1982
Borussia Dortmund: 1997
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