This matchup looks primed for goals at both ends, with 2 teams boasting strong attacks but less-than-stellar defences. Aston Villa average 1.5 goals scored and 1.55 goals conceded per game in the Premier League, while Monaco have been similarly prolific in Ligue 1, netting 1.61 goals per game but conceding 1.11 – despite facing weaker attacking sides compared to Villa.

In European competition, Monaco’s games have been even more open, with the team scoring an impressive 2 goals per game but conceding 1.67 on average.

While Benfica have enjoyed a solid Champions League campaign, Barcelona look like good value at these odds. The Catalan giants have been a force in Europe this season, sitting 2nd in their group while boasting an impressive average of 3.5 goals per game – the highest in the competition.

Their European form has been almost impeccable, winning 5 consecutive matches, including victories over European heavyweights Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

Though their domestic form has been patchy, with just 1 win in their last 5 outings, Barcelona’s squad remains 1 of the strongest in world football.

Meanwhile, Benfica have also struggled for consistency recently, losing 2 of their last 3 games in Liga Portugal. With Barcelona’s proven quality and recent dominance on the European stage, they are well placed to secure another victory here.

This clash seems likely to be a low-scoring affair, with both teams renowned for their defensive solidity and cautious tactics in European competitions. Atletico Madrid have been rock-solid at the back, averaging just 0.65 goals conceded per game in La Liga this season.

Similarly, Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive record is impressive, with only 3 teams conceding fewer goals in the Bundesliga. In the Champions League, they’ve maintained their discipline, conceding just 0.83 goals per game.

Given the defensive strength on display and the likelihood of both sides employing a measured, risk-averse approach, this matchup has all the makings of a tightly contested, low-scoring encounter.

Liverpool look well positioned to secure a comfortable victory, with a margin of 2 or more goals highly likely. The Reds boast a flawless Champions League record this season and are yet to concede at Anfield, even against top-tier opponents like Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid. Domestically, they sit atop the Premier League and remain unbeaten since September, showcasing their exceptional form.

While Lille have performed admirably in Europe and currently sit 8th in the Champions League standings, they are not on Liverpool’s level. The French side is 3rd in Ligue 1 but has managed just 3 wins in their last 9 matches, often dropping points against weaker opponents. Liverpool’s superiority in quality and form makes them a strong bet to cover the -1.0 handicap here.