It’s the final round of group games in the Champions League, and arguably the fixture with the most riding on it is the clash between RB Leipzig and Manchester United in Group H.
Depending on how this result shakes out, at least one of these teams will be forced to settle for a tilt at the Europa League come the New Year.
That is unless Istanbul Başakşehir can add some spice to proceedings in the other game in the group with a surprise win over PSG – which would mean a draw between RB and Utd would send both through.
Who makes the Round of 16?
Here’s our big match preview…
RB Leipzig vs Manchester United Betting
A goal in injury time from Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth gave Leipzig victory in Turkey (3-4) and Neymar’s late goal against Man Utd (1-3) leaves three sides tied at the top of the group all on nine points – which means various permutations could play out in midweek.
The equation is simple for both RB and Utd; both are in control of their own destiny provided they win this fixture, and both could even still top the group if PSG stumble.
Utd raced to a 5-0 win in the reverse fixture but will surely proceed with a bit of caution of here, given a draw will be enough for United. However, Leipzig could pounce should Utd make yet another slow start to a game, with Spanish duo Dani Olmo and Angeliño in magnificent form.
Here are our value bets ahead of this week’s big fixture.
3 Betting Predictions for RB Leipzig Vs Manchester United
It could be a nervous night for both defences with so much on the line, so let’s dive in with our top RB Leipzig vs Man Utd betting picks…
A 1-1 draw – or any score draw – would more than suit United’s needs. Both teams boast plenty of firepower which could mean the bulk of the goalmouth action comes in the early exchanges of the game as the two sides look to steal an early march in the race to qualify. However, if that precious point looks on offer with the clock running down, expect Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side to start playing it safe.
With three goals in the group stage so far, and 10 in 16 overall this season, United’s main man is expected to shine.
Fernandes didn’t start at the weekend so should be fresh for this crucial game.
Home form remains Utd’s major weak point this season, but more so in the Premier League. In five Champions League games they have scored a goal in the first half each time, and we’re backing that trend to continue.
Still confused just how each team can qualify? This is how things could play out on the night…
Group H Permutations: Man Utd, RB Leipzig and PSG
Istanbul Başakşehir will finish bottom of Group H but can still play kingmakers. If the Turkish champions draw or win their match against PSG, several situations could play out.
Victory looks a difficult, but not impossible, ask for the Champions League rookies. They beat Utd earlier in this tournament and posed Leipzig plenty of trouble – plus PSG are renowned for hitting the self-destruct button at any given stage of this competition.
⚠️ If Başakşehir beat PSG: a draw between Leipzig and Manchester United would send both those sides through, with Utd topping the group. However, a win for either team would knock the other out, and also send PSG through regardless of their result in Istanbul.
Neymar’s late goal for PSG at Man Utd looks crucial. It ensured PSG edged their H2H record against Utd (1-2 in the first leg and 1-3 in the second leg) and RB (with an away goal in Germany).
⚠️ If PSG and Başakşehir draw: There could be a triple tie with the three sides on 10 points should Leipzig and United draw. In that case, United would be 1st and PSG 2nd. If Leipzig or United win the match, PSG would be second with a draw.
⚠️If PSG win: they win the group, whatever the result of Leipzig vs Manchester United.
* Odds correct at time of writing but may be subject to change
