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Champions League Last-16 Preview: Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City Face Key Tests

Sky Sports Champions League •
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Liverpool return to Istanbul seeking redemption after their September defeat to Galatasaray. The Reds enter Tuesday's match with renewed confidence following their FA Cup win over Wolves, though they remain without Alisson in goal. Jurgen Klopp's side showed signs of revival with Florian Wirtz back in the lineup, but must avoid the complacency that saw Juventus collapse 5-2 in the knockout playoff.

Spurs face an unusual predicament as they prepare to host Atletico Madrid while battling Premier League relegation. Igor Tudor's injury-depleted squad desperately needs training time to shore up their defensive structure, yet must instead face Diego Simeone's side just days after their Crystal Palace defeat. The Champions League success that secured their place now feels like an unwelcome distraction from their survival fight.

Newcastle host Barcelona in what Eddie Howe calls the club's biggest match ever. The Magpies' intensity against Manchester City demonstrated their potential, though fatigue proved costly. Howe hopes rested stars Anthony Gordon and Joelinton can maintain pressure on Barcelona, who lead LaLiga but have shown vulnerability. The fixture carries special significance given Bobby Robson's Newcastle legacy.

Arsenal's perfect Champions League record faces its toughest test against Bayer Leverkusen. The Gunners' critics question their style despite winning all eight group games, but Mikel Arteta's team has scored three or more goals in six straight European matches. Leverkusen's defensive struggles - conceding more than they scored in the league phase - could provide the perfect opportunity for Arsenal's creative players to shine.