Liverpool, Barcelona, and Inter: Top Favorites to Win the Champions League

Following the conclusion of the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, the statistical portal Opta has updated its predictions for this season's winner. Topping the list once again is Liverpool, with a 26.1% chance of lifting the trophy. The Reds remain the team to beat, despite a nerve-wracking performance in their recent match.

Liverpool's fate hung in the balance this week during their clash with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Parisians dominated the game, but a heroic display by Alisson Becker, Liverpool's goalkeeper, saved the day. His incredible saves not only prevented a defeat but ultimately secured a crucial victory for the Reds. Despite their lackluster overall performance, Liverpool's resilience has only strengthened the belief that they are serious contenders for the title.

Behind Liverpool, the competition is fierce but distant. Barcelona sits in second place with a 17.3% chance of winning, while Inter Milan follows closely with 15.5%. At the bottom of the list are Benfica and Borussia Dortmund, each with a mere 0.5% chance of triumphing in Europe's elite competition.