Bayern Munich v Inter Milan

Once you put to one side that Inter Milan are the reigning champions of Europe, it’s very hard to find a single reason to back them to overturn a first leg deficit to Bayern Munich. The Germans claimed a priceless 1-0 win in the San Siro three weeks ago and their home record is imperious. Bayern have won their last seven European games at the Allianz Arena and boast a striker in Mario Gomez who has scored seven goals in as many Champions League appearances this season. Only Lionel Messi has more, with eight.

Inter will find little solace in recent form or team news. The Nerazzurri limped to a 1-1 draw with Brescia at the weekend after conceding a late equaliser; a crucial opportunity to close the gap on neighbours AC, came and went. Meanwhile, Munich beat Hamburg 6-0 in the Bundesliga to warm up for the second leg in some style. Admittedly, the fact that last year’s Champions League runners-up still languish in fourth in their domestic league remains mystifying.

Bayern have no new injury worries whereas Inter could be without Brazilian defender Lucio and forward Diego Milito. Hopes of a shock turnaround will largely rest on the shoulders of Samuel Eto’o. But the Inter defence will remain a concern after conceding three goals in both previous away games in this competition, to Spurs and Werder Bremen. When you piece it all together Inter are hard to favour, even at 16/5 with SkyBet. Instead, the 19/20 available with PaddyPower on Bayern Munich winning on the night again looks tempting.