CelticsStrong
Other Discussions => Other / General Sports => Revolution / Soccer => Topic started by: ACF on August 28, 2012, 03:03:45 PM
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http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/index.html
My local team FC Copenhagen has a good chance at qualifying this year. They beat Lille 1-0 in the first qualifier a week ago, so I am really looking forward to tomorrow when they play the second leg.
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wish i didn't have to work and could sit in a dank bar somewhere sipping guinness and watching these games ;D
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:'(
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http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2013/draws/index.html
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http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2013/draws/index.html
Juventus and PSG look dangerous opponents in that third tier.
Dortmund in the 4th tier could be a tough out also. Although, they were pretty disappointing in this competition last year. Not fully convinced by them after that.
The rest look pretty straightforward for the top sides to handle.
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Group A: Porto, Dynamo Kiev, Paris St-Germain, Dinamo Zagreb
Group B: Arsenal, Schalke, Olympiakos, Montpellier
Group C: Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Anderlecht, Malaga
Group D: Real Madrid, Manchester City, Ajax, Borussia Dortmund
Group E: Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk, Juventus, Nordsjaelland
Group F: Bayern Munich, Valencia, Lille, Bate Borisov
Group G: Barcelona, Benfica, Spartak Moscow, Celtic
Group H: Manchester United, Braga, Galatasaray, Cluj
Teams in red are the ones I like to qualify for the next round. Undecided on two of them.
Group D is being billed as the toughest group. All four teams are Champions of their domestic league. "Group of Champions" is this year's group of death.
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Group A: Porto, Dynamo Kiev, Paris St-Germain, Dinamo Zagreb
Group B: Arsenal, Schalke, Olympiakos, Montpellier
Group C: Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Anderlecht, Malaga
Group D: Real Madrid, Manchester City, Ajax, Borussia Dortmund
Group E: Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk, Juventus, Nordsjaelland
Group F: Bayern Munich, Valencia, Lille, Bate Borisov
Group G: Barcelona, Benfica, Spartak Moscow, Celtic
Group H: Manchester United, Braga, Galatasaray, Cluj
Teams in red are the ones I like to qualify for the next round. Undecided on two of them.
Group D is being billed as the toughest group. All four teams are Champions of their domestic league. "Group of Champions" is this year's group of death.
Looks very plausible. I think Malaga will also advance from Group C. Group H looks more open. I am especially looking forward to the matches in Group D, just four really, really good teams.
As a Copenhagen supporter, it'll be interesting to see how FC Nordsjaelland do in the CL. They'll will probably not collect too many points; I imagine seeing a performance a la Brondby '98: Good efforts at home and maybe a couple of points and big losses on away matches. I could really see FCN breaking under pressure. I hope they do good, of course. Denmark and Champions League are not words mentioned in the same sentence very often.
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Malaga`s main opponent is the financial problems. If they can keep the roster as it is (although maresca has already left) they have serious hopes for the first 2 places
MU again avoided and big names in the group but last season they failed miserably. I hope this season the team will appear more serious in CL
I pretty much agree with Who... I can see Kiev "upsetting" porto and i`m not sure about Arsenal being a lock
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finaly CL is back :D
real vs city .... can`t wait !
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Group C: Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Anderlecht, Malaga
I'll check off Zenit too. The additions of Hulk and Witsel should give them the edge for that second qualifying spot in their group.
Actually, AC Milan have looked vulnerable. Could be a good group for an upset. I think I'll put Milan back in the pack with Malaga and Anderlecht.
Group C: Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Anderlecht, Malaga
Very much looking forward to the Real Madrid vs Man City game tonight. Should be a cracker.
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I'll check off Zenit too. The additions of Hulk and Witsel should give them the edge for that second qualifying spot in their group.
Those additions ruined all their team chemistry and there were reports about other players not happy with the high salaries both got. Zenit playing awful in the Russian league and CL ever since.
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2-0 Celtic over Barca !!!!
Tony Watt scores on his Champions League debut at 18 years of age to put Celtic up two nil. What an incredible moment / result !!!
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Oh oh ... Messi just scored. Gotta stand firm defensively. Hang on to the result.
Go on Celtic !!!
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Celtic win !!! Celtic win !!!
Excellent defensive organization. Two outstanding performances back-to-back from Celtic against a vastly superior Barcelona side. They deserve a great amount of credit for what they have just done.
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As big Barcelona Fan as I am
Celtic deserve this one
Edgar
p.s. Commercial Add
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What an effort by the Bhoys!
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Really impressed with Shaktar. They are a [dang] good team.
Conceded two sloppy goals (bad back pass and keeper made a bad clearance) and a third off of a set piece (corner). If they hadn't made such basic errors, they would've beaten Chelsea again here in Stamford Bridge.
That William player was particularly impressive. I'd like to see him move to a bigger league.
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I hate seeing Van Persie score for Man Utd. It just feels wrong to see him there and playing so well after being at Arsenal for 8 years.
Heartbreaking
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I on the other hand am thrilled to see him next to Rooney :D
The Celtic crowd yesterday was amazing
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Juventus have a really impressive team. I like their shape. Resolute defensively + lots of movement and passing when attacking.
This is shaping up to be a very good match. Juve vs Chelsea. Both teams going for the win.
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Juve is very solid the only thing missing to put them over the top is a player to do the extradordinary .... they had it in Zidane they had it in Del Piero
Although i don`t like Chelsea the trio Hazard-Mata-Oscar is a delight to watch !
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[dang] deflections! That puts Juve firmly in the drivers seat.
I don't see Chelsea coming back in this one. In real danger of getting knocked out in the group phase now. Juventus are very impressive. Genuine threat to win the competition.
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[dang] deflections! That puts Juve firmly in the drivers seat.
I don't see Chelsea coming back in this one. In real danger of getting knocked out in the group phase now. Juventus are very impressive. Genuine threat to win the competition.
Very disappointing way to bow out, will probably be the first holders to not make it past the group stage.
Di Matteo's goose is now cooked. Pep Guardiola will be coach next season.
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Genuine threat to win the competition.
well chelsea did it with much less ..so why not
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Well the only 'positive' I can think of as a Chelsea fan is that at least you have to have won the Champions League to be the first Champions League holder to go out in the group stage :-[
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RpRKIzLCTE
Luiz Adriano is a disgrace. There's really nothing else to say. Shame on him.
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Oh my, wow ... Chelsea have just sacked Di Matteo.
Word is that they are talking to Rafa Benitez about taking over as the caretaker manager. Probably because Rafa had so much success with Fernando Torres at Liverpool. To be honest, no the biggest fan of Rafa overall but the man is a tactical genius and I would love to see what he'd do with the likes of Hazard, Oscar and Juan Mata. That could be something special.
Di Matteo obviously didn't deserve to be fired but I think, like Villas-Boas, things were likely to end up in that direction anyway even if Di Matteo was given more time. The team was simply too undisciplined/disorganized defensively.
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Well the only 'positive' I can think of as a Chelsea fan is that at least you have to have won the Champions League to be the first Champions League holder to go out in the group stage :-[
Well it`s still a long way to beat liverpool`s achievement... they won the CL but failed to even qualify to the next competition .. thank god uefa gave them a hand :D
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UEFA is looking at Adriano now. Good. You don't pull a trick like that, no matter who you are.
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Champions League round of 16 draw:
Galatasaray v FC Schalke
Celtic v Juventus
Arsenal v Bayern Munich
Shakhtar Donetsk v Borussia Dortmund
AC Milan v Barcelona
Real Madrid v Manchester United
Valencia v Paris St Germain
FC Porto v Malaga
My picks to win are the teams in red.
That Manchester United vs Real Madrid is the tie of the last 16. That should be a great matchup. Both have the talent to be legitimate contenders to win the competition. Neither team firing all cylinders just yet. Could go either way.
I thought Malaga were going to fall apart after their difficult summer but I was wrong. They have been tremendous so far. I am going to take them over Porto.
I think PSG and Barcelona should beat Valencia and Barcelona comfortably.
I also expect Juventus to win their tie against Celtic. Celtic could make that an uneasy two legged affair for the Italians though. Celtic Park is a very difficult place to play. One of the most intimidating / overwhelming crowds in Europe. They give their team a real advantage at home. And Celtic have been very good defensively in the Champions League so they could make life uncomfortable for Juventus despite Juve being a much better side.
Shakhtar and Dortmund is a great tie. I was really impressed with Shakhtar in the group stages. I think they have a decent shot at beating Dortmund who I think are there for taking defensively. Dortmund do have great attacking talent though so I'd give them the edge here. It could be close though.
Schalke are doing well. Potent group of attackers. I'll take them over Galatassary. If they sell Huntelaar in the winter transfer window, this tie could become more hotly contested.
The Arsenal vs Bayern Munich match is one of my favourites. Maybe my second favourite tie after United and Madrid. There should be lots of good attacking football on display from both sides. Bayern have far more talent though and should win out.
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I will be rooting for Manchester for sure!!!
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Ah, that is a shame.
Juventus got an early goal against Celtic at Celtic Park. I would have loved to have seen how they responded to being 0-0 60 minutes in and with the crowd roaring stronger and louder than any other stadium in Europe. See how they handle the pressure.
This early goal takes all that off. Screws Celtic's chances. They need that advantage. Away goal too. Juve in a really strong position now.
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I am praying to the gods that Milan can do the unthinkable and upset Barca.
Barca (and Madrid as well) is just such disgusting side. No respect for either. At least Juve and Inter, which I also loathe, are respectable.
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I am praying to the gods that Milan can do the unthinkable and upset Barca.
Barca (and Madrid as well) is just such disgusting side. No respect for either. At least Juve and Inter, which I also loathe, are respectable.
I am really looking forward to seeing Balotelli and El-Shaaraway play together. They should be a very potent attacking force.
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Aghhh, Matri scores! 2-0 Juventus over Celtic.
Two away goals too. Celtic aren't good enough to make up this deficit away in Turin against a very talented defensive side like Juventus. This tie is over. [dang it].
Edit: Argh ... 3-0, Vucinic. Game over, tie over.
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Pretty good game here between Real Madrid and Man Utd (1-1).
A bit raggedy at times but great passion from both sides. You can they really want it. That this game means a great deal to each side.
They say an estimated 200 million people are watching this game right now. Amazing.
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I'd like to see Ronaldo move into some more wide positions. Look to beat a defender and get a cross in. Madrid just playing in front of United right now. Getting no penetration in the final third.
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Wow, pretty controversial ending to the Man U v. Madrid game. Can't believe Man U wasn't allowed to take the final corner. Can't recall the last time that has ever happened.
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Ramos is one dirty SOB ....
He won RVP`s yellow card by acting and then he got away elbowing Evans (i think)
But anyway it was a good game and the score makes a very interesting second leg
Real should attack even more on the left side. Fabio (or was it the other one??? :D) looked completely lost. I can`t remember him winning the ball!
BTW Ozil is soooo good!!!
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Can anybody here explain the "Euoropa League" to me? I have recently started getting into soccer/football and have become a tottenham hotspur fan. I see that they play today and I am recording the game but I don't exactly understand why they are playing outside the premiere league.
I get the whole "Champions league" thing. Not so much the Europa league though. I assume champions league is more prestigious?
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Can anybody here explain the "Euoropa League" to me? I have recently started getting into soccer/football and have become a tottenham hotspur fan. I see that they play today and I am recording the game but I don't exactly understand why they are playing outside the premiere league.
I get the whole "Champions league" thing. Not so much the Europa league though. I assume champions league is more prestigious?
Yeah, more prestigious.
There used to be three European competitions = (1) Champions League / European Cup (2) Uefa Cup / Europa League (3) Cup Winners Cup.
The Champions of domestic league would go to the European Cup. The runners-up in the domestic teams would go to Uefa Cup. The winners of domestic cup (eg FA Cup) would go to the Cup Winners Cup.
Anyway, since then, the European Cup has been expanded into the Champions League. Now 3-4 teams from each top league in Europe plus 1-2 from lesser leagues go to the Champions League. Plus, the Cup Winners Cup has been scrubbed so cup winners now get a place in the new Europa League + the runners up teams are now teams who are placed 5th-7th in top leagues in Europe rather than the 2nd-3rd place teams they used to get. Also, the third placed team in the first group stage of the Champions League, when they get knocked out (top two of four team group advance), they go to the Europa League too.
There is very little money in the Europa League. I think the winner only earns around $5 million versus the $40+ million a Champions League winner gets.
The Europa League is still fairly well regarded around most of Europe but not in England. English teams usually send out their "B team" or reserves in the early rounds of the Europa League and do not take it seriously until the quarter-finals if they make it that far (by then, it's a possible trophy so they'll field good squads).
So don't bother watching most English teams in these early phases. Most won't put a strong team out there. Tottenham are an exception currently. They have Andre Villas Boas as their manager who won the competition with Porto 2 years ago. He rates it highly and doesn't understand why so many English supporters don't care about it. But the year before, with Harry Redknapp, Spurs fielded their backups all the way through until they were knocked out. Just not enough money in it to make it worthwhile hurting your league position to progress.
Overall, you can get a couple of very good teams in the competition + some great matchups in the knockout stages ... but overall, the quality is fairly dodgy. A lot of weak teams.
Atletico Bilbao were great last year. They decimated Man Utd in the competition. Ajax too. Atletico Madrid won the competition last year. You can see what they are doing in La Liga this year. That happens = you can see up and coming teams coming through the Europa League. Mourinho's Porto side won this competition before winning the Champions League the next year.
Normally, I just ignore it until the quarter finals and then look to see if there are any good teams playing each other. Maybe watch one of those games. Otherwise, I think it's a fairly dull tournament.
I think they should go to straight knockout right from the beginning. With lesser teams / quality, they need to increase urgency / intensity of ties. They can't just be a poor man's Champs league. They have to do something different. I think a straight knockout would do wonders for increasing interest in the Europa League.
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Otherwise, I think it's a fairly dull tournament.
I`m with you .... I think they have expanded european tournaments too much. I find even CL less interesting nowdays
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Can anybody here explain the "Euoropa League" to me? I have recently started getting into soccer/football and have become a tottenham hotspur fan. I see that they play today and I am recording the game but I don't exactly understand why they are playing outside the premiere league.
I get the whole "Champions league" thing. Not so much the Europa league though. I assume champions league is more prestigious?
Yeah, more prestigious.
There used to be three European competitions = (1) Champions League / European Cup (2) Uefa Cup / Europa League (3) Cup Winners Cup.
The Champions of domestic league would go to the European Cup. The runners-up in the domestic teams would go to Uefa Cup. The winners of domestic cup (eg FA Cup) would go to the Cup Winners Cup.
Anyway, since then, the European Cup has been expanded into the Champions League. Now 3-4 teams from each top league in Europe plus 1-2 from lesser leagues go to the Champions League. Plus, the Cup Winners Cup has been scrubbed so cup winners now get a place in the new Europa League + the runners up teams are now teams who are placed 5th-7th in top leagues in Europe rather than the 2nd-3rd place teams they used to get. Also, the third placed team in the first group stage of the Champions League, when they get knocked out (top two of four team group advance), they go to the Europa League too.
There is very little money in the Europa League. I think the winner only earns around $5 million versus the $40+ million a Champions League winner gets.
The Europa League is still fairly well regarded around most of Europe but not in England. English teams usually send out their "B team" or reserves in the early rounds of the Europa League and do not take it seriously until the quarter-finals if they make it that far (by then, it's a possible trophy so they'll field good squads).
So don't bother watching most English teams in these early phases. Most won't put a strong team out there. Tottenham are an exception currently. They have Andre Villas Boas as their manager who won the competition with Porto 2 years ago. He rates it highly and doesn't understand why so many English supporters don't care about it. But the year before, with Harry Redknapp, Spurs fielded their backups all the way through until they were knocked out. Just not enough money in it to make it worthwhile hurting your league position to progress.
Overall, you can get a couple of very good teams in the competition + some great matchups in the knockout stages ... but overall, the quality is fairly dodgy. A lot of weak teams.
Atletico Bilbao were great last year. They decimated Man Utd in the competition. Ajax too. Atletico Madrid won the competition last year. You can see what they are doing in La Liga this year. That happens = you can see up and coming teams coming through the Europa League. Mourinho's Porto side won this competition before winning the Champions League the next year.
Normally, I just ignore it until the quarter finals and then look to see if there are any good teams playing each other. Maybe watch one of those games. Otherwise, I think it's a fairly dull tournament.
I think they should go to straight knockout right from the beginning. With lesser teams / quality, they need to increase urgency / intensity of ties. They can't just be a poor man's Champs league. They have to do something different. I think a straight knockout would do wonders for increasing interest in the Europa League.
Thanks fo the breakdown Who. I watched Tottenham vs Lyon yesterday when I got home from class. Gareth Bale knocked home the game winner on a free kick as time expired. Its was pretty exciting, though the way Lyon was playing just packing it in on the defensive side made it less exciting.
Best part about recording soccer is that I can turn on espn, the internet or whatever i normally would and not risk hearing about the score of the game!
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I feel bad for Arsene Wenger. He looked old, tired and beaten up in that press conference yesterday. It looks like Arsenal's struggles are really wearing on him.
I'd love for something good to happen for Wenger and Arsenal. They've been dealing with body blow (Fabregas) after body blow (Samir Nasri) after body blow (Robin Van Persie) lately. They need some good news.
Very excited about this Bayern Munich (2nd best team in Europe behind Barca?) versus Arsenal tie tonight. There should be some really good football on show.
Note: Arsenal are in their 13th straight season in the knockout stages of the Champions League. Very impressive achievement.
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Arsenal getting pummeled. Bayern all over them. Up 2-0 already.
Bayern have been absolutely brilliant. I am pulling for them to win the Champions League this year. They have been so close the last few years. Losing in the Final twice. I'd love to see them get it this year.
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Bayern sure looks impressive this season
They score in volumes and their defense is truly amazing
Neuer should have a chair with him and watch the game more confortably.
Very solid team indeed.
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Spoke too soon .... neuer relaxed too much and gave away the goal !
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Arsenal get one back!
I am really impressed with Bayern's pressing. Doing a great job of defending from up front.
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Rough night for Arsenal. 3-1 down. Three away goals for Bayern.
Mandzukic is a very impressive striker. I haven't seen a lot of him. He looks a much better player than Mario Gomez. Never been high on Gomez.
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Porto dominated the entire game. It was 17-1 in total attempts...! Malaga had one shot the entire game!
Our goal was offside but man, this should've been a blowout. Malaga must be happy to walk out of there only down 1-0.
João Moutinho is the man, my favorite player in the world, such skill, technique and hustle, the hustle part kinda like Bradley. Relentless. Best player Porto has had since the '04 CL season.
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These yellow and orange strip for Barcelona are ... funky.
Not sure if it is good funky or bad funky.
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1-0 AC Milan over Barcelona!! Kevin-Prince Boateng!
C'mon Milan! I'd love to see Barca knocked out. Tired of them winning.
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2-0 Milan -- Sulley Muntari with the strike following the beautiful pass from El-Shaarawy
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These yellow and orange strip for Barcelona are ... funky.
Not sure if it is good funky or bad funky.
they look like caribean cocktail!
barcelona looked tired , uninspired and slow. I don`t know if it was forced by milan`s tactics. can you remember the last time barcelona didn`t create a single chance?
good result for milan and even better for us cause it`s going to be an amazing second game.
BTW i doubt anyone watched it but the other game was on of the best of the season!!!
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Huge Comeback for Tottenham yesterday. Scoring the equalizer to send them through to the next round at the 89 minute mark. Excellent shot from distance too. Bring on Inter Milan!
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How scored for Spurs ???
Bale had scored all of their 5 last goals
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How scored for Spurs ???
Bale had scored all of their 5 last goals
Mousa Dembele got the tying goal. It was real nice.
Lyon did an excellent job on Bale all game. There were very few times that he was able to touch the ball in open space.
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Strange outfield choices by Fergie
Wayne Rooney dropped. Nani in for him. Kawaga dropped. Giggsy in for him.
Nani has had a really inconsistent year. Doesn't track back defensively. Undisciplined.
Giggs has been caught out in just about every game he has played against top opponents this year. Too old for these nights. Fine for opponents in the lower half of the premier league but struggles against the best of the best.
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Brilliant. Kaka is going to come on. Di Maria injured.
Delighted to see Kaka play.
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IMHO what you said about Giggs applies to Kaka too....
I think Modric was the better option for Di Maria.
BTW it`s giggs` game no 1000 if i`m not wrong... amazing achievement
Nani starting was a shock for me too. This season has has clearly lost a few places in the rotation and Kagawa had just scored a hat trick a few days ago.
I don`t like Welbeck. I can`t remember him dribbling past an opponent today he had (and will have more) chances to play one on one but he can`t create space to shoot the ball.
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Ohh, what a mistake by Sergio Ramos! Own goal.
Mistake by Varane I think it was not get the ball out of play. Allowed Nani to get the ball back and put that cross in for the goal.
Terrific attack by Man Utd. Great penetrating run and pass by Rafael.
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I don't like Madrid's frontline. No confidence in it.
Little confidence in Higuain or Benzema. Don't like Benzema. More open minded about Higuain. Kaka doesn't fit the formation. Kaka needs to play in the hole but Ozil and Ronaldo both want that real estate too. Too much overlap.
Ronaldo plays too centrally and spends too much time ineffective areas. I'd love to see him move more into wide positions and attack those full-backs. Get in some crosses.
Ozil is restricted by the frontline. He should have more freedom to get into those positions behind the striker to thread through balls in. I'd love to see him get into better central positions. So lethal with those through balls.
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Nooo ... what happened? Why did Nani get sent off?
Show a replay!
Edit: Oh my. Terrible challenge by Nani. High, reckless and dangerous. Not deliberate though. Clearly wasn't trying to hit the opponent. Going for the ball. Not sure whether that is red card or not. Maybe a yellow would've been better. Clearly wasn't deliberate.
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It was a hard play by nani but he didn`t know Arbeloa was there.... Wrong call by the ref
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I like that quick substitution by Mourinho to bring in Modric for Arbeloa with Nani sent off.
United are going to have to pack men behind the ball. I don't think Madrid are that great at breaking down a set defense. Lethal on the counter but Man Utd can cause their attack problems if they shut up shop.
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Rafael saved United a goal there. Great defending.
That was a sure-fire goal from Higuain on the corner if not for Rafael.
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Ohh, how did he miss that?
Great play by Modric with the dummy and excellent low cross right in front of the six yard box. Just needed a touch. Who was that? Khedira? How didn't he get that?
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Ohhhhh, what a strike by Modric! Goal
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CR the second goal !!!
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Man United are in real trouble now. Madrid have 25 minutes plus injury time of regular time and then another 30 minutes after that to try and take advantage of the extra man.
Well, forget that, they just scored. Now United have to chase it. They need two goals. Madrid have the away goal advantage now too. United are not getting two goals with a man down. This is pretty much over.
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Fergie has got to bring on Rooney for Welbeck and Kagawa for Giggs.
Man United needs more attacking strength on the pitch. They don't have enough firepower.
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Excellent substitution by Mourinho again. Quick sub again.
Pepe on to reinforce the defense. I would have liked to have seen Kaka get taken off rather than Ozil but it still a really good move for Madrid.
Mourinho doing a great job with his subs. Reacting wonderfully to the game.
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The moment nani was sent off AF should have subed out Wellbeck
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The moment nani was sent off AF should have subed out Wellbeck
Yeah, I think so too. Someone to sit in front of the defense and provide some protection.
Actually, I am not sure they have anyone on their bench who can do that for them with Phil Jones out injured and Fletcher out long term.
13 Lindegaard
06 Evans
07 Valencia
18 Young
26 Kagawa
10 Rooney
14 Hernandez
Those are the subs. Five attackers. One keeper. Only one defensive option. Badly balanced bench. Too many wingers. Too many players who do their work in the final third.
A center half in Jonny Evans. Not sure how well that would have worked for them. I suppose it was still the best available option. 5-3-1 with Van Persie the sole attacking option. Keep 8 men behind the ball and look for Van Persie to break.
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I wouldn`t have added another defender but someone with skills to keep the ball the let the defense get a breath.
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United are getting no support from midfield. Van Persie and Rooney too isolated on too many occasions when they collect the ball.
Both attackers look dangerous. Just not enough support.
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A 40y old Giggs , Cleverly and Carrick. Not the midfield you expect from a team at this level
Although i think Real deserved to qualify the red card that played a huge role in this was a BS call
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Difficult way to go out of the competition for United. That red card. Harsh call.
Deserved winners, Madrid were. Great reaction to the red card unlike United who folded. Took the initiative. Attacked. Got the goals. Disciplined defensively. Saw it out.
United never got back into the game after the red. Gave away the two goals far too quickly. Then failed to get their attack functioning well after that. Bad reactions after each setback.
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So that is all four of the English teams out before the quarter-finals.
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Man Utd got screwed, plain and simple. That red card was an atrocious call, which handed the match to Real.
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Entertaining game to watch. Can't believe Ferguson didn't start Rooney. His press conference should be interesting, no doubt full of his usual complaining and hypocrisy.
Red card maybe a little harsh but I've seen plenty worse given.
No denying the Special One, his teams usually find a way.
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Red card maybe a little harsh but I've seen plenty worse given.
TP. I didn't expect the ref to eject Nani, expecting a yellow card, but after watching the replays you can tell is a dangerous play, so the red card isn't that strange.
Shame for United, they had the game under control, but with Nani out, Mourinho could take his right back out and Modric was key for the win.
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Man Utd got screwed, plain and simple. That red card was an atrocious call, which handed the match to Real.
in the ref`s defense Nani`s move was a text book red card.My only objection is that he wasn`t aware of Arbeloa`s position.
MU got the lead in both games but failed to keep it. And in addition got a couple a great chances last night which they should have taken advantage. The last thing i expected by a so experienced team was to be so naive in such an important stage
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Disgusting decisions from the referee.
It's amazing that in a match between two of the world's biggest teams with superstar, world-class footballers on the pitch that a referee decided he take to take the spotlight.
It wasn't just the red for Nani. A certain penalty for a foul on Evra in the 90th minute, some fouls that weren't called throughout the match, even Rafael's handball on the line should have been a Madrid penalty.
MUFC had the tie in the bag up until the red card. I was confident. Now? I'm disgusted.
I'll say this about Ronaldo though: I loved him at Utd and if he's done anything to his reputation at Old Trafford after this tie it's enhance the fans love for him. Wonderful player and very humble in not celebrating and actually looking a little empathetic.
I should probably stop here because I'm getting a bit emotional. F bombs and C bombs would start flying.
The referee's name was Cuneyt Cakir. There's an accurate anagram to be had there...
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in the ref`s defense Nani`s move was a text book red card.
No way. There was a play on the ball, and there wasn't any intent there.
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UEFA should be ashamed for not being able to find someone better to referee a match of this magnitude. It really is beyond me how they can not. I mean, there are so many great refs to choose from but this wasn't the first time they find someone who should be doing Junior varsity matches instead of knock-out stage CL matches. In the end, I blame UEFA for letting the wrong man do the job. Shame on you.
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Anxiously awaiting today's Milan v Barcelona match. Hoping the Rossoneri can finish the job and slay the dragon.
2-0 advantage on aggregate, with a clean sheet at home, sets them up rather well to go through. Barca makes me nervous though. Must contain Messi.
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Anxiously awaiting today's Milan v Barcelona match. Hoping the Rossoneri can finish the job and slay the dragon.
2-0 advantage on aggregate, with a clean sheet at home, sets them up rather well to go through. Barca makes me nervous though. Must contain Messi.
I think I'll be happy either way.
It would be nice to see Barca knocked down a peg but it would also be beautiful to see them rise to occasion and put on show by slotting 3-4 goals past AC Milan.
I like the side Barca put out. Messi, Villa and Pedro. No Fabregas. I think this is their best midfield and front-line. Hopefully they can deliver and at least put a scare into AC Milan.
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Anxiously awaiting today's Milan v Barcelona match. Hoping the Rossoneri can finish the job and slay the dragon.
2-0 advantage on aggregate, with a clean sheet at home, sets them up rather well to go through. Barca makes me nervous though. Must contain Messi.
I think I'll be happy either way.
It would be nice to see Barca knocked down a peg but it would also be beautiful to see them rise to occasion and put on show by slotting 3-4 goals past AC Milan.
I like the side Barca put out. Messi, Villa and Pedro. No Fabregas. I think this is their best midfield and front-line. Hopefully they can deliver and at least put a scare into AC Milan.
Well, obviously as a Milan fan I'm biased, but I just really detest Barca (Madrid as well). There's just something about the Spanish clubs that really irk me.
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Ugh! Horrendous start.
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Milan back line extremely unsettled right now. This is not promising.
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There it is.....
The difference between world class finishing ability (Messi), and less than such (Niang).
Very disappointing.
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Villa with the classy finish to put Barca ahead. Milan have to chase it now.
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Utterly disappointing day.
Milan's defense has been down right pathetic. Almost every clearance has been sloppy and misplayed. Seems their lack of experience is getting the best of them.
Have to hope for an away goal now.
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Tip of the cap to Barca. They proved their superiority.
Milan would have done well to play tactically different. Barca's defense can be exposed. Had Niang not hit the post on what should have been an easy goal, a different result may have been won.
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
I'm guessing you don't know your European soccer too well. Barca does this to almost everyone.
That said, this has not been one of Milan's better campaigns.
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
I'm guessing you don't know your European soccer too well. Barca does this to almost everyone.
That said, this has not been one of Milan's better campaigns.
One would think, after letting Barça score one, ACM would make sure not to let them score another.
Instead, they let them score 2 more ::)
(Edit: THREE more [though the last one didn't really matter])
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
I'm guessing you don't know your European soccer too well. Barca does this to almost everyone.
That said, this has not been one of Milan's better campaigns.
One would think, after letting Barça score one, ACM would make sure not to let them score another.
Instead, they let them score 2 more ::)
(Edit: THREE more [though the last one didn't really matter])
Hey, Barça on their homefield, with everything on their favor is a hard team to defend. Granted, Milan was terrible in every way, giving the ball to Barça and waiting them in their own area, thus setting them to play the way they like it.
Tp for Kg's Knee, being an AC Milan must really suck. Barça isn't dominating this way on the weak La Liga teams, and they're not what they used to be.
Hoping for a Bayern-Barça quarterfinal matchup.
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
I'm guessing you don't know your European soccer too well. Barca does this to almost everyone.
That said, this has not been one of Milan's better campaigns.
One would think, after letting Barça score one, ACM would make sure not to let them score another.
Instead, they let them score 2 more ::)
(Edit: THREE more [though the last one didn't really matter])
First, I'm wondering if you truly understand how good Barca is offensively. I have seen very few teams in my years watching European soccer that can score they way this team can. I don't know if I've ever seen a team be able to posses the ball the way they do.
Second, Milan is a rather young and inexperienced team right now. Just from last years roster they lost Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Mark Van Bommel, Robinho, Clarence Seedorf, Alessandro Nesta, Gianluca Zambrotta & Filippo Inzaghi. That is an astounding amount of top level talent turnover have to deal with. The Italian sides can no longer compete financially with the EPL teams or the two Spanish powerhouses (Barca/Madrid).
Lastly, tactically I was displeased with Milan. They played too conservative at the beginning. The best way to beat Barca, is to expose their weak defense. It's very difficlult though. Barca has such an unbelievably good midfield, it is difficult to maintain possesion. Ultimately, I think Milan's inexperience got the better of them. They seemed overwhelmed by the moment for much of the game.
But, being an AC Milan fan does not suck. Milan has one of the most glorious histories of any European soccer club EVER. They have won more European titles than any other, and have the second most Euro Cup/Champions League titles (7), as well as the second most Serie A titles (18).
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AC Milan is simply terrible. You know you're bad when you come into the game thinking "All we gotta do is not lose 3-0" and yet, you still lose 3-0.
I'm guessing you don't know your European soccer too well. Barca does this to almost everyone.
That said, this has not been one of Milan's better campaigns.
One would think, after letting Barça score one, ACM would make sure not to let them score another.
Instead, they let them score 2 more ::)
(Edit: THREE more [though the last one didn't really matter])
First, I'm wondering if you truly understand how good Barca is offensively. I have seen very few teams in my years watching European soccer that can score they way this team can. I don't know if I've ever seen a team be able to posses the ball the way they do.
Second, Milan is a rather young and inexperienced team right now. Just from last years roster they lost Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Mark Van Bommel, Robinho, Clarence Seedorf, Alessandro Nesta, Gianluca Zambrotta & Filippo Inzaghi. That is an astounding amount of top level talent turnover have to deal with. The Italian sides can no longer compete financially with the EPL teams or the two Spanish powerhouses (Barca/Madrid).
Lastly, tactically I was displeased with Milan. They played too conservative at the beginning. The best way to beat Barca, is to expose their weak defense. It's very difficlult though. Barca has such an unbelievably good midfield, it is difficult to maintain possesion. Ultimately, I think Milan's inexperience got the better of them. They seemed overwhelmed by the moment for much of the game.
But, being an AC Milan fan does not suck. Milan has one of the most glorious histories of any European soccer club EVER. They have won more European titles than any other, and have the second most Euro Cup/Champions League titles (7), as well as the second most Serie A titles (18).
I hope it didn't offend you as a Milan fan, sorry if that's the case.
Of course AC Milan is the second greatest club in all soccer, but this present team is one of the weakest in their last years. Blame has to go on Berlusconi and Galliani for their firesale. One would think they're going to sell Boateng if they have the chance, also.
Last year's Milan lineup would have knocked off this Barça today, they're lacking someone in the midfield who can set their teammates. But they're young and have some room to progress.
Barça is clearly on the decline, it will be very interesting how UEFA sets the next round matchups to grant them a weak opponent. By the way, after Niang's shot to post, have anybody seen Pique's playing with his hand? There wasn't any replay on Spanish TV, so it must be a penalty 8)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n96Offcj4wQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n96Offcj4wQ)
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I hope it didn't offend you as a Milan fan, sorry if that's the case.
Of course AC Milan is the second greatest club in all soccer, but this present team is one of the weakest in their last years. Blame has to go on Berlusconi and Galliani for their firesale. One would think they're going to sell Boateng if they have the chance, also.
Nah, no offense taken. TP back at ya.
Honestly, as much as it pained me to see Milan sell off it's top players, it was likely necessary. Their top talent was getting a little long in the tooth, and didn't seem to be getting results worthy of their financial cost. The only player they lost that really bothered me was Thiago Silva. His experience on the back line would have been nice to have this year.
I'm hoping this "youth movement" Milan is going through right now will pay off in a year or two. They have some really good young talent right now. El Shaarway, Niang, and Balotelli (if he could ever get on the field) are all 22 or younger. Cristante, their best young prospect, hasn't yet been called up, but is looking like he could become the midfield player to make it all work (I've seen more than a few comparisons to Pirlo).
I expect Milan will sell off Boateng, and Robinho (who wants to go back to Brazil), save a little more money, and in a year or two make their splash in the transfer market.
I think Berlusconi finally realized his finances just can't compete with the Barcas, Madrids, or EPL teams. Have to develope your own talent better, and only sign high profile players when the youth is ready.
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One thing I wish they would change is the away goal rule.
If, for instance, Arsenal were to somehow win 2-0 today, I would think that to be more impressive than Munich winning 3-1 away. Yet Munich would go through based on more away goals.
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Arsenal need to make some changes in midfield. Need more attacking players on the pitch.
Rosicky misplacing too many passes. Maybe somebody like Oxlade Chamberlain who has pace and can run at people down the wing. I think Ramsey should come off too. Maybe for Diaby or even a more attacking substitute like Gervinho or Arshavin. Arsenal running out of time now. Only 25 minutes left and they still need 2 more goals.
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The linesman has done a terrible job tonight. Several offside decisions wrong tonight. Got a few wrong decisions against Bayern in the first half and followed that up with another couple of wrong decisions in the second half against Arsenal.
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Arsenal need to bring on Diaby. Too many tired legs in the center of midfield.
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Oh! 2-0 Arsenal. Header from a corner.
They got 5 minutes plus injury time left to find a third goal to knock Bayern out.
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I thought that was a pretty poor match. Arsenal struggled for the rest of the game after that first early goal. Bayern had some good moments but lacked urgency for large parts of the game too. Both teams flattered to deceive.
I just heard that Bastuber is out for the season and Van Buyten is going to be in the first eleven for the remainder of the season. I didn't know that. Insane that a team as good as Bayern has to play a defender as flawed as Van Buyten. I think that is really going to hurt them in next stage(s) of the Champions League. Might cost them a shot at winning this competition.
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And there we have it. Arsenal wins 2-0 away, leaving the aggregate even at 3-3, and Munich goes through on more away goals scored. Hate that rule, just stupid.
No way you will ever convince me winning 3-1 is more impressive than 2-0. A clean sheet is always a higher quality result.
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Málaga v Borussia Dortmund
Real Madrid v Galatasaray
Paris Saint-Germain v Barcelona
Bayern Munich v Juventus
That Bayern Munich vs Juventus matchup looks to be the tie of the quarter-finals. A bit disappointed these two giants are meeting each other at this stage. Probably my two favourite teams left in the competition.
I think PSG could give Barca a run for their money. With big target man in Ibrahimovic and quick attackers around him like Lavezzi and Lucas Moura, I think PSG have the type of attack (or counter attacks) that can cause Barca issues. I think Thiago Silva is back from an injury also. He did really well for AC Milan defensively against Barca last year. With Alex alongside him and a packed central midfield, I think they could put up a strong defensive effort. So I think this could be a really good quarter-final too.
Disappointed Dortmund didn't draw one of the bigger teams.
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About barcelona-psg i have the completely different opinion... I think barcelona won`t even sweat against psg. BTW zlatan won`t be available for the first game.
I wanted a dortmund barcelona clash.
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Ribery has been sensational for Bayern Munich. Muller has been great too. It looks like the game is getting away from Juventus here over the last 10-15 minutes. Hopefully they can get to halftime and regroup.
Ahh, Messi just scored. I thought PSG had been doing well up until that point. Both teams looking dangerous whenever they have gotten into the final third. Thiago Silva doing really well for PSG at the back. Excellent pass by Dani Alves to setup the Messi chance.
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I hate seeing Fabregas playing up front. I would love to see him move clubs this summer and go somewhere that will put him back in midfield.
I'd love to see him in a role like Schweinsteiger has at Bayern Munich.
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Ibrahimovic has been really disappointing in the second half. Since Barca scored really. I don't know whether he has given up on this game or if he has simply run out of gas but he keeps wasting opportunities and giving away possession in the final third.
PSG wasting a glorious chance here with Messi out. Barca looking blunt up front. Good in possession but impotent in the penalty box. PSG continuing to get in good positions in quick transitions. There are goals there for PSG if they can pull it together.
As an aside, Alexi Sanchez is a ridiculously bad finisher / goal scorer inside the penalty box. Very talented winger and dribbler but by god does he suck at putting away goal-scoring chances. Awful. Incredible to see such a talented attacker who is so bad inside at the penalty box.
Edit: Bah, Ibrahimovic blows a point blank opportunity one-on-one with the keeper with 12 minutes to play. He hasn't been at the races in the second half. PSG as a whole have been really disappointing since they conceded that first half goal.
Hey, haha, Ibrahimovic gets a tap in after Thiago Silva hits the post on a header from a free kick. 1-1 PSG Barca. That will buy him some goodwill after his largely woeful performance in the second half.
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Oh no. Dumb penalty to give away. Bad goalkeeping. Xavi puts it away.
2-1 Barca with two away goals. It is going to be very difficult for PSG to win this tie now.
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What a shambles from Valdes! 2-2 PSG Barca!
Hold on. Replay shows a deflection. Bad luck for Valdes, wrong footed by a deflection.
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Anybody see this article about Gareth Bale?
http://nesn.com/2013/04/zinedine-zidane-impressed-by-gareth-bales-premier-league-and-europa-league-exploits/
zidane compares him to Messi and Ronaldo saying hes not far off. I really hope Bale doesnt leave Tottenham this summer, they wouldnt have won a game since January without him I believe
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Disappointing job by PSG. They had it in their hands and they bottled it.
Barcelona live for another day.
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Exactly. They wasted a couple of good chances and when Messi stepped in they lost their concentration and pretty much paniced.
Same gows for Malaga. They are not in the semis due to 2 very very cheap goals. You are 3 mins far from a dream... You don`t just defend... YOU EAT THE BALL !!!
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Wow, Mario Götze is set to join Bayern Munich for €37 million this summer.
Massive loss for Borussia Dortmund. Huge signing for Munich.
I wonder who Götze will be replacing. Kroos is in the center or Robben out on the wing. I love him in the center of the pitch. So much more creative than Kroos.
I wonder how well Dortmund will be able to replace Götze. Especially if they lose Lewandowski as well. Just a year after losing Kagawa. It is looking like their wage restrictions are going to stop them from hanging onto any of their top talent for too long. [dang] shame if that is the case because they are a really enjoyable team to watch.
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Very disappointed to see Bayern Munich are starting Mario Gomez instead of Mario Mandzukic.
I think Madzukic is a much better player. More quickness. More energy and better work-rate on the pitch. Excellent defensively pressuring the ball.
I have long thought that Gomez was the weak link in this Bayern team and the German National team in recent years.
Edit: Oh my mistake. Mandzukic is suspended. I forgot that.
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The pressing, passing and organization of these two teams is stunning.
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Can't say I'm too thrilled with the way the semifinals were drawn. Would have rather seen the sides matched-up by nationality. Guarantees one from each country makes the final.
My worst nightmare is an all-Spanish final. I have no interest in watching two Spanish sides face off for the title (yuck).
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Messi seems to be standing around a lot off the ball. Not as active as he normally is. A lot of jogging. Not many sprints. Looks quicker on the ball than off it.
Not sure he is right physically. We'll see.
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Always seems to be in the right place at the right time. Thomas Muller. Scores big goals too.
Delighted to see Bayern go ahead. Pulling for them tonight.
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The pressing, passing and organization of these two teams is stunning.
Especially the pressing... It`s unreal the way they cover every inch of the pitch. Like they ball with 14-15 players each !
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Gomez scored ... 2-0 Barca is in deep *****
Bayern is not Milan
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3-0 !!!!!!!!!!!
Arjen Robben!
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i enjoy watching barcelona getting beatten but i think there was a foul there
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That's it. Game. Set. Match.
4-0 Bayern Munich
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This has been such an awesome display of tactical domination on the part of Munich. Completely picked apart Barca in every facet of the game.
Very satisfying to see Barca get smashed like this.
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My worst nightmare is an all-Spanish final. I have no interest in watching two Spanish sides face off for the title (yuck).
hey, what's wrong with an all-Spanish final? A Barça-Madrid final would be a huge sports event.
Well, it's unlikely Barça can beat Bayern, the germans played themselves into the biggest favorite to win this year. You got your wish, I guess ;D
I wouldn't rule out a Bayern-Borussia D. final. Those german teams are back to the top, and Real Madrid lacks consistency.
As a Spanish fan, I hope at least Madrid can beat Dortmund, Bayern-Madrid would be huge too, and they hate each other almost like Barça-Madrid.
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My worst nightmare is an all-Spanish final. I have no interest in watching two Spanish sides face off for the title (yuck).
hey, what's wrong with an all-Spanish final? A Barça-Madrid final would be a huge sports event.
To put it plainly, I just don't like the Spanish teams. Not one bit.
My disdain for Madrid and Barcelona, in particular, rivals that of my disdain for the Lakers/Canadiens/Cowboys. And oddly enough, I actually think I loathe Madrid/Barca more than I do Juve/Inter. That's not easy to say as a Milan fan.
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Ah [dang], Madrid got the equalizer just before halftime. An away goal too.
Off a throw in from the side of central midfield. A very bad goal to concede. An error from the defender passing it back to his keeper.
Dortmund had been doing well up until that point.
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What an incredible night for Lewandowski. Four goals for Lewandowski. In a Champions League semi-final. What an accomplishment. Incredible.
Dortmund ahead 4-1 over Real Madrid.
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Incredible results this week.
It's a shame that Man Utd haven't been involved in the games, but both have been masterclasses joyous to behold.
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I still can`t get over both results....
It`s not like it`s a huge upset Bayern and Dortmund winning the games but the way they did it is amazing. Flawless tactics, relentless pressing, unlimited stamina.
They managed to make Real and Barca look completely lost.
BTW you can`t help admiring Dortmund`s fans
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any predictions for the final???
i like both teams but i can`t see bayern losing again
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any predictions for the final???
i like both teams but i can`t see bayern losing again
I think Bayern win 2-1.
Very much looking forward to this one. I think Bayern are clearly the stronger squad but Dortmund have enough about them to get a result here. Should be a very good game.
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I ve put my money on 1-1 90 min score... dortmund has started very strong. Bayrn can't keep the ball which is a bit surprising...
GReat atmosphere by the fans....
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I can't believe roben managed to waste 3 amazing chances to score. ...
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I can't believe roben managed to waste 3 amazing chances to score. ...
Extremely wasteful. So many bad decisions in the final third by Robben.
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I can't believe roben managed to waste 3 amazing chances to score. ...
Extremely wasteful. So many bad decisions in the final third by Robben.
Well, that sure makes up for it. Great pass by Robben across the box to setup the goal.
1-0 Bayern
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what a beautiful GOAL
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I can't believe roben managed to waste 3 amazing chances to score. ...
Extremely wasteful. So many bad decisions in the final third by Robben.
Well, that sure makes up for it. Great pass by Robben across the box to setup the goal.
1-0 Bayern
Ribbery should take the credit.
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Haha, oh my ... that was an awful penalty to concede.
How can Dante even complain about that?
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Wow, terrific clearance by Subotic. More impressed by Subotic than Hummels.
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Dante should be executed.... extremely stupid penalty..
A m a z I n g save by subotic.
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Dante should be executed.... extremely stupid penalty..
A m a z I n g save by subotic.
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ROBBEN FANTSASTIC GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Bayern were the better side. Deserved the win. Should've had a couple more goals.
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Dortmund looked like they were out fuel in the last 20mins and Bayern`s players looked like they had just started the game. The second half was one team game and Bayern deserved the win but it was a cruel way of winning. Dortmund`s central defenders were pretty bad last night. Subotic and Hummels failed to stop a single attack.
Why Roben after the goal shouted to the crowd repeatedly "what?"
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Mi7NdS9Tw94
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Bayern were the better side. Deserved the win. Should've had a couple more goals.
Probably might have if Robben had more than one foot.