Former Ballon d’Or winner backs Barcelona to beat Atletico Madrid in UCL quarterfinals

Milan—Andriy Shevchenko, the 2004 Ballon d’Or recipient, has tipped Barcelona to advance past Atlético Madrid in the upcoming UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, citing the Catalan club’s superior recent form.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Legends Trophy tournament in Milan, the former AC Milan striker acknowledged the tight nature of the tie but gave a slight edge to Hansi Flick’s side.

“I expect a good game; I think both teams have a good chance,” Shevchenko said. “I think Barça has a little more… they are in better form.”

The Ukrainian icon highlighted the condensed schedule that will see the rivals meet three times in ten days, beginning with a La Liga fixture immediately after the international break and followed by the two-legged European showdown. Those matches, he believes, could shape the remainder of Barcelona’s season.

Atlético already hold a psychological advantage, having eliminated Barcelona from the Copa del Rey semi-finals on a 4-3 aggregate scoreline earlier this year. Yet Shevchenko feels the Champions League presents a different proposition, particularly with the Blaugrana’s current momentum.

Asked to identify the players most likely to influence the tie, the 47-year-old refused to single out one standout, instead listing a trio of headline names: Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé.

With Flick and Diego Simeone set for a rapid-fire tactical duel, the next fortnight promises defining drama for both clubs.