Bayern new Champions League favs

  • Last Updated: February 21 2013, 9:12 GMT

Barcelona have been replaced at the head of the Champions League betting by Bayern Munich following their shock 2-0 defeat to AC Milan in the first leg of their last-16 tie on Wednesday night.

Frustration for Xavi as Barcelona lose at AC Milan.
Frustration for Xavi as Barcelona lose at AC Milan.

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The Catalan giants are out to a general 9/2 in the outright market while they can now be backed at 11/10 to turn the tie around in the second leg and reach the quarter-finals. BetVictor initially went up with 7/4 but were soon forced to slash that.

Goals from Kevin-Prince Boateng and Sulley Muntari sealed a famous victory for the Rossoneri, who have moved into 22/1 (general) to win Europe's premier club competition.

Bayern Munich romped to an emphatic 3-1 victory at Arsenal on Tuesday night and the Bundesliga leaders are now favourites at 16/5 (Paddy Power).

Other contenders include Real Madrid (5/1 with BetVictor and Ladbrokes), Manchester United (9/1 with YouWin), Borussia Dortmund (15/2, general) and Serie A champions Juventus (10/1, general).

Sky Bet football trader Paul Lowery said: "Bayern are now favourites after their comprehensive win at Arsenal, who are now really up against it in the second leg.

"With Barca slipping to a surprise defeat, it has also opened up for the winner of Manchester United v Real Madrid clash."

Barca had been favourites ever since the book was opened last summer and Coral's Nicola McGeady admitted having the Spanish side knocked out would be a great result for the bookies.

She said: "AC Milan's victory at the San Siro tonight has left Barcelona backers sweating. The Spanish giants will have a huge task on their hands in the second leg and if they don't progress, punters will be hit hard."