For Bayer Leverkusen, the match will be a test of their resilience against Newcastle's intense pressing and strength. The midfield will be key: if Leverkusen can quickly transition the ball from defense to attack and avoid physical challenges, they will be able to create many chances. However, Newcastle is known for imposing its style and exploiting set pieces—their high level of preparation in this area could lead to a goal even on the road. The December weather in Leverkusen (cold, possible snow) will add to the intensity and competitiveness, which will play into the hands of the more physically powerful Newcastle. Motivation is also important: for Leverkusen, this is an opportunity to test their young players and refine their formations, while for Newcastle, it's a chance to maintain their form before the return matches of the league.

Athletic Club had a poor start to the season, but is gradually picking up steam in La Liga: they have won three of their last five matches, including a win over Atlético Madrid. However, they suffered 3-0 defeats to Real Madrid and 4-0 to Barcelona, and have also failed in all their top Champions League matches. The team is physically exhausted, playing two matches a week after the international break, and two central defenders, Laporte and Paredes, will miss the match against PSG. PSG has had a sluggish start to the season, regularly slumping mid-game. However, each time, the Parisians find the strength and resources to turn things around. In their last four Champions League matches, they have scored five goals and conceded four before the break. Ten goals have been scored in the second half, while three have been conceded. And although there are plenty of personnel losses and the defense is far from ideal, PSG will have no trouble dealing with Athletic in a similar way.

Villarreal continues to thrive in La Liga and struggle in the Champions League. Marcelino and his team have won their last six matches in Spain, but have only picked up one point in the Champions League so far, though they are quite capable of challenging their remaining opponents. Copenhagen is performing slightly better in the Champions League, but is struggling in Denmark. The reigning champions are only fifth and already 12 points behind the leaders, and they are nowhere near the form they need to climb back up. The "Yellow Submarine" has been performing well at home this season and is also showing a decent scoring record, while Copenhagen has begun to concede an inappropriate amount of goals, and it's unclear how motivated they are to devote their energy to the Champions League given their position in the Super League. A victory for the Spaniards is a given, and perhaps a big one.