There isn’t a more wide-open group in the Champions League this year.
RB Leipzig and Lyon join Zenit and Benfica, Russian and Portuguese champions, respectively, in Group G, with all four clubs about as likely to finish first as they are fourth.
| TEAM | TO WIN GROUP | TO QUALIFY | NOT TO QUALIFY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leipzig | 9-5 | 5-8 | 6-5 |
| Lyon | 11-5 | 5-6 | 10-11 |
| Benfica | 5-2 | 10-11 | 5-6 |
| Zenit | 5-1 | 3-2 | 1-2 |
Group winner
Leipzig open as slight favorites to win Group G, despite making just their second appearance in the Champions League. Lyon and Benfica have been mainstays in the competition and will be hoping their experience can carry them through to the knockout stage. Zenit make their return following a three-year hiatus.
While oddsmakers consider Leipzig to be Group G’s best, it’s Lyon who deserve the title. The French outfit boasts the most dynamic player in the group in Memphis Depay, headlining a dynamic attack, and there’s no shortage of talent in midfield and defense. Lyon also have the know-how to win in Europe; It speaks volumes about the character in this side that it was able to go into Donetsk for the final group match last season needing a win and getting the three points against …read more