UCL: Bayern at PSG's throat, Barcelona's need for speed and other stories

UEFA Champions League preview: Key clashes include Barcelona vs. Brest, Bayern vs. PSG, and Arsenal at Sporting Lisbon, as teams fight for top-8 spots

Bayern Munich's home game against PSG is the standout fixture of Tuesday night in the Champions League with both sides far off the desired top 8, how will this play out? (Photo credit: Opta)

The UEFA Champions League is back with tricky fixtures across grounds; the primary goal is to be among the top eight, while the next best is to make it into the top 24, which qualifies you for a two-legged playoff.

AC Milan’s form is worrying, and only a win here could offer some glimmer of hope in the Champions League after they failed to impress in any of their first four games in the competition. They labored to a goalless draw at home against Juventus on Saturday in Serie A; they need a result for Serbia.

Atletico Madrid is on a great run, with five straight wins in all competitions, and a trip to Sparta Prague presents them with a wholesome opportunity to continue on the run while aiming to break into the top 8, which won’t exactly be an easy task.

It’s a big one for Barcelona at home to Stade Brest. The French team is performing well and currently holds the fourth spot in the log; a point away from Barcelona would be significant for a club making its debut in the elite competition.

Despite their celebration at the Ballon d'Or after their El Clásico victory, Barcelona's performance is concerning. They are only four points ahead of Real Madrid in the standings, and the reigning champions have a game against Valencia coming up. The Catalan giants must get a grip now.

It’s clear as day that Bayern Leverkusen will not be retaining their Bundesliga title this season, but they can aim for a top-eight spot in the Champions League, which chalks off two unnecessary games in January. Can they beat Salzburg in Germany? Can they take the lead and maintain it?

It’s a big one at the Allianz Arena. Both Bayern Munich and PSG are seeking crucial victories to maintain their position in the competition. Bayern currently sits in 17th place, while PSG is completely out of the top 24, posing a significant threat.

Inter Milan beat Arsenal the last time out, and they can cement their place in the top 8 with another win at home against RB Leipzig on Tuesday. The German side is in trouble in the Champions League and in danger of crashing out, but they must put on a show in Italy.

Arsenal is away at Sporting Lisbon, and it’s a game the Gunners must win if they want to creep into the top 8. The Portuguese side is doing well, but how will they fare without Ruben Amorim, who is now in the Manchester United dugout?