The UEFA Champions League quarter-final first legs have delivered everything fans hoped for drama, dominance, and defining moments. As Europe’s elite clubs prepare for the decisive second legs next week, some have built commanding leads, while others must summon all their strength to keep their continental dreams alive.

Here’s a breakdown of which teams hold the upper hand heading into the return legs, and which must deliver their best performances of the season to reach the semifinals.

Teams with a Big Advantage
Barcelona (4-0 vs. Borussia Dortmund)

Barcelona were irresistible at Montjuïc, dismantling Borussia Dortmund with a stunning 4-0 victory. Robert Lewandowski led the line with a clinical brace, while Raphinha and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal also got on the scoresheet. With such a dominant display, the Catalan giants are virtually assured of a spot in the semifinals. Dortmund will need a miracle at Signal Iduna Park.

Arsenal (3-0 vs. Real Madrid)

In perhaps the most surprising result of the round, Arsenal stunned 14-time European champions Real Madrid with a commanding 3-0 win at the Emirates. Declan Rice scored a brilliant free kick and added another later on, with Mikel Merino capping off a comprehensive performance. Real Madrid are no strangers to Champions League comebacks but overturning a three goal deficit against this confident Arsenal side at the Bernabéu will be their toughest challenge yet.

Paris Saint-Germain (3-1 vs. Aston Villa)

After falling behind early to Aston Villa, PSG responded like true contenders. Goals from Désiré Doué, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and a stoppage-time strike by Nuno Mendes flipped the match on its head. A two-goal lead gives Luis Enrique’s men a strong advantage heading into Villa Park, though Unai Emery’s Villa have pulled off shocks before.

Ties on a Knife’s Edge

Inter Milan (2-1 vs. Bayern Munich)
Inter Milan claimed a crucial 2-1 win in Munich, courtesy of a late goal by Davide Frattesi. Bayern, already dealing with defensive injuries, looked vulnerable but their firepower at home keeps them in the tie. The second leg at San Siro promises a high-octane clash between two heavyweights still very much in it.

 
Teams That Must Perform Exceptionally

Borussia Dortmund

Dortmund were completely outplayed in Barcelona, and now face the nearly impossible task of overturning a 4-0 deficit. The German side will need to produce one of the greatest nights in their history and even that may not be enough against a focused Barça side.

Real Madrid

Down by three goals, Real Madrid must conjure the spirit of past comebacks if they’re to survive. While Karim Benzema and Jude Bellingham can change a game in moments, Arsenal’s disciplined structure and form mean the Spanish giants will have to be near-perfect to reach the semifinals.

Aston Villa

Unai Emery’s Villa briefly dreamed of an upset when they led 1-0 in Paris, but PSG’s firepower flipped the narrative. Now trailing 3-1, they’ll need to score at least twice without reply to stand a chance. The support at Villa Park will be vital but so will a flawless defensive performance.

 
 Second Leg Fixtures to Watch
April 15:

Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain
Borussia Dortmund vs. Barcelona
April 16:

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal
Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich
 

Final Word

Barcelona, Arsenal, and PSG are in pole position but in football, especially the Champions League, nothing is guaranteed. The pressure is now on Real Madrid, Dortmund, and Villa to chase miracles, while Inter and Bayern must battle it out in the most evenly matched tie of the round.

One week from now, the final four will be confirmed and with the stakes this high, expect more drama, brilliance, and heartbreak on Europe’s biggest stage.