2008-2009 UEFA Champions League – Round Of 16 Preview (Part II)
February 25th 2009 04:14
The Champions League's first knock-out stage is upon us, and there are already several match-ups that can make any fan drool with anticipation. Here's how things look up this year.
On Wednesday, the two must-see games will probably be Chelsea against Juventus and Real Madrid against Liverpool.
Claudio Ranieri's men have surprised most observers this year with a terrific run in the group stage where they defeated both Real Madrid and Zenit St. Petersburg. The partnership of Alessandro Del Piero and Brazilian striker Amauri proves to be a deadly combination in both the Champions League and in the Serie A. As For Chelsea, they're entering this stage of the competition with a new manager at the helm. Since it's too early to evaluate Hiddink's impact, I don't quite know what to expect of Chelsea on Wednesday. We'll see if they'll go with both Anelka and Drogba in front once again.
Over at Madrid, the Meringues seem to be rejuvenated since the arrival of Juande Ramos. They are currently on a eight-game winning streak in La Liga, hanging on seven points behind Barcelona. The acquisition of Lassana Diarra was a stroke of genius as the midfielder has proved to be a real annoyance for opposition midfielders. In Diarra, Madrid have finally found Makelele's replacement for the defensive aspect of midfield. In front, Ramos can count on the veteran Raul who, although he has no legs, can score with his head on any angle. Higuain has also proved to be a revelation this year, and if Arjen Robben can stay in shape, look out. Their opponent, Liverpool, have one major weakness – lack of creativity. Benitez has a strict system in place, and if you can stifle the Reds, the match becomes a lot more easier. Gerrard is a question mark, so that's a big piece of their attack and midfield missing in action.
The two other games will pit Villareal against Panathinaikos, and Bayern Munich against Sporting. The Yellow Submarine have a solid club from front to back. Their defense is probably their only weakness, but I don't Panathinaikos will be able to kick them out. The same goes for Bayern who, theoritically, will easily oust Sporting.
On Wednesday, the two must-see games will probably be Chelsea against Juventus and Real Madrid against Liverpool.
Claudio Ranieri's men have surprised most observers this year with a terrific run in the group stage where they defeated both Real Madrid and Zenit St. Petersburg. The partnership of Alessandro Del Piero and Brazilian striker Amauri proves to be a deadly combination in both the Champions League and in the Serie A. As For Chelsea, they're entering this stage of the competition with a new manager at the helm. Since it's too early to evaluate Hiddink's impact, I don't quite know what to expect of Chelsea on Wednesday. We'll see if they'll go with both Anelka and Drogba in front once again.
Over at Madrid, the Meringues seem to be rejuvenated since the arrival of Juande Ramos. They are currently on a eight-game winning streak in La Liga, hanging on seven points behind Barcelona. The acquisition of Lassana Diarra was a stroke of genius as the midfielder has proved to be a real annoyance for opposition midfielders. In Diarra, Madrid have finally found Makelele's replacement for the defensive aspect of midfield. In front, Ramos can count on the veteran Raul who, although he has no legs, can score with his head on any angle. Higuain has also proved to be a revelation this year, and if Arjen Robben can stay in shape, look out. Their opponent, Liverpool, have one major weakness – lack of creativity. Benitez has a strict system in place, and if you can stifle the Reds, the match becomes a lot more easier. Gerrard is a question mark, so that's a big piece of their attack and midfield missing in action.
The two other games will pit Villareal against Panathinaikos, and Bayern Munich against Sporting. The Yellow Submarine have a solid club from front to back. Their defense is probably their only weakness, but I don't Panathinaikos will be able to kick them out. The same goes for Bayern who, theoritically, will easily oust Sporting.
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