Monaco crushed Young Boys 7-1 on aggregate to reach the Champions League playoff round. (Getty)
The pick of the Champions League playoff round takes place between Spanish side Valencia and France’s Monaco. The first leg takes place Wednesday and only one of these successful clubs will reach the group stage.
Monaco reached the Champions League quarterfinals a year ago behind an impressive win over Arsenal, but finished third in Ligue 1 last season and was entered into the third qualifying round. In that tie, Valencia crushed Young Boys of Switzerland 7-1 on aggregate.
Valencia placed fourth in La Liga to reach the playoff round, and will hope to join Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Europa League winners Sevilla in the group stage.
Here’s what you need to know about the match:
The Basics
Valencia’s 21-year-old winger Rodrigo De Paul is a hot prospect. (Getty)
Who:
What:
UEFA Champions League qualification playoff, first leg
When:
Wednesday, August 19
Where:
Mestalla, Valencia
Time:
2:45 p.m. Eastern time; 7.45 p.m. UK time
Channel:
Fox Sports 2 (US)/BT Sport Extra 1 (UK): (International viewers, click here for your local provider)
Odds:
Valencia 4/5, Monaco 7/2, Draw 5/2
Over/Under: 2.5 goals (over 8/13, under 6/5)
First Goalscorer: Valencia: Paco Alcacer (4/1); Monaco: Anthony Martial (7/1)
0-0 Draw: 8/1
Both Teams to Score: Yes 10/11, No 4/5