UEFA Champions League - Unofficial blog

Barcelona and Manchester United to meet in Champions League Final

2011-05-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Manchester United defeated Schalke at the Old Trafford and will meet Barcelona in the Champions League Final at Wembley. The two most powerful teams in the world are about to have the most exciting duel in the history of the competition.

Barcelona proved to be far superior than Real Madrid - even with Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka. The new version of the "Dream Team" includes World Champions Xavi, Iniesta, Villa, Puyol, Busquets, Pedro and Pique. What's more: they also have Lionel Messi, one of the most amazing footballers in history. Journalists, footballers and coaches around the world say that there is no team that could actually beat them.

But Ferguson's Manchester United could be the only team around powerful enough to defeat Barcelona. The Old Trafford club has explosive strikers such as Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Berbatov and Nani. They are absolute leaders of the Premier League and crushed Schalke 04 in the Champions League semis.

No one can tell for sure which are favorites for this game. The globe expects to see a unique clash on May 28.

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Messi brights against 10-man rival

2011-04-27T22:23:00.000-07:00

Lionel Messi is one of those players that show their value in the most difficult moments. He was born to make history, and that's exactly what he did at the Santiago Bernabeu. Ten-man Real Madrid could not stop the Argentinian footballer, who scored a double. Barcelona's 0-2 win over Madrid virtually seals their ticket for the Champions League final.

Another gifted footballer was on the pitch. But Cristiano Ronaldo was not meant to be the hero tonight. In fact, this third "clasico" was the most rough one, with too much violence and very little space for good football.

Now Mourinho's side must get at least three goals in Barcelona, and try not to receive any. Real Madrid coach already said that "it is mission impossible. We lost to a wonderful team, but it's a shame to have referees that always help Barcelona".

Guardiola said this is an important victory, but he expects to see a die-hard Real Madrid in the second leg of this semifinal: "a club with nine European titles never give up before playing the game".

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Josep Guardiola and Mourinho heat up the "clasico"

2011-04-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

This Champions League semifinal is not just another one. Real Madrid will face Barcelona in the third "clasico" this month. And both coaches have expressed explosive statements in the previous hours.

Mourinho assured that "we have had two groups of coaches so far. Those ones who never complain about the referees, and those ones who clomplains of the ref's mistakes - including me. But Guardiola has started a new era, a new group -with one person, him - of coaches that complain about the referee's good decisions".

After those words, Guardiola lost his usual politeness and blasted back: "I've worked with Mourinho and I know him very well. In this room, he is the f*** boss and the one who knows everything. That's fine, I don't care if he feels good that way. Off the pitch, he has already won his particular Champions League. On the pitch, we will try to play good football and win the game".

Manchester United vs. Schalke 04: Giggs and Rooney score in their 0-2 win

2011-04-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Manchester United got an important win against Schalke 04 in Germany. With goals scored by Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, Alex Ferguson's side got a 0-2 triumph and are now one step closer to the Champions League final.

At the Veltins Arena, German keeper Manuel Neuer proved to be one of the best goalies in the world. But his almost-perfect performance could not avoid the defeat for his team.

Coach Rangnick is convinced that Schalke can achieve an unlikely comeback at the Old Trafford, in the second leg of this semifinal. Ferguson is aware that the German team is a dangerous squad and prefers not to say anything before the second game.

Once again, Manchester United in semis, Chelsea out

2011-04-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

Manchester United defeated Chelsea 2-1 in an extremely exciting game, thanks to "Chicharito" Hernandez and Park Ji-Sung, who scored one goal each. Didier Drogba netted the only goal of Chelsea, but that was not enough to win this leg.

Ferguson's team reached the semifinals of the Champions League, and their next rival will be either Schalke or Inter Milan. No need to say that the German club has the best options of winning their leg.

United supporters at the Old Trafford Stadium celebrated this important victory. The game itself was intense and in the end, we get the feeling that both teams were strong, but Manchester United were able to take advantage of their virtues and opportunities in a more effective way.

Jermain Jenas: Tottenham can surprise everyone at the White Hart Lane Stadium

2011-04-08T23:15:00.000-07:00

Despite the tough defeat to Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspurs defender Jermain Jenas is still optimistic. He said that "No one knows what could happen at the White Hart Lane Stadium" and he is convinced that the Spurs can achieve a surprising result.

As we know, Mourinho's team defeated Tottenham 4-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The second leg will take place in London, at the Spurs' Stadium.

"Madrid is four goals ahead and there are not many things harder than that. But we will give all we've got to win" said Jenas.

Manchester United is one step closer to the semis: they beat Chelsea 1-0

2011-04-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Stamford Bridge Stadium has been a tough pitch for Manchester United, but the history chaged last night. Ferguson's team defeated Chelsea 0-1 with a great goal scored by Wayne Rooney.

This quarterfinal duel is not decided yet, but United took one step of advantage with this result. Rooney's goal - which came after a superb move of Ryan Giggs - can be a crucial factor in the end.

Chelsea almost score the equalizer when Fernando Torres blasted his shot close to the post, but Van der Sar stopped the ball.

Alex Ferguson said that "nothing is decided yet, but this victory is really important". The ticket for the semifinals will be decided on April 12, at the Old Trafford Stadium.

Barcelona defeat Shakhtar Donets 1-5 but Guardiola remains cautious

2011-04-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

FC Barcelona got an outstanding 5-1 win over Shakhtar Donets in Ukraine, and coach Josep Guardiola said this result is "good" but insisted that their rivals are an excellent team, and they should be careful and focused in the second game.

This match, part of the Champions League quarterfinals, almost secured a place in the semis for Messi's team.

Early in the first half, Iniesta scored the opener and Barcelona began their path to victory. Dani alves, Gerard Piqué, Keita y Xavi completed the handful of goals.

With this result and the victory of Real Madrid over Tottenham, the world expects a Spanish derby in the semifinals.

Surprise at San Siro: Schalke beat Inter 2-5

2011-04-05T22:32:00.000-07:00

Not even the most loyal fan of Schalke expected this win. Inter scored the opener with a superb shot by Dejan Stankovic and took an advantage again with their second goal netted by Milito. But the German squad, lead by veteran Raul Gonzalez, would achieve one of the most impressive comebacks in Champions League history.

Brazilian striker Edu was the hero of Schalke by scoring a double. The other German goals were netted by Matip, Raul, and an own goal by Ranocchia .

Even though there is one game left, Inter's coach Leonardo knows that it will be really tough for his team to qualify for the semifinals.

Champions League 2011 Quarterfinals: Adebayor score double to help Madrid crush Tottenham Hotspurs

2011-04-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho was aware of the importance of this game against Tottenham Hotspurs, that's why he used his best cards since the very first minute. And his most valuable footballers didn't disappoint him. Real Madrid beat the Spurs 4-0 and almost secured a place in the semifinals.

The first goal scored by Emmanuel Adebayor was the breaking point of the match, and it came very early in the first half. Real Madrid was an unstoppable machine of offensive football, with Ozil, Ronaldo and Adebayor leading the attack.

Peter Crouch's red card was the second factor that helped Madrid demolish their rival. Nothing was in favor of Tottenham at the Santiago Bernabeu. In the second half, Adebayor, Di María and Cristiano Ronaldo completed the result.

Karim Benzema out of Champions League duel against Spurs

2011-04-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

French striker Karim Benzema had become one of the most important offensive cards of Mourinho, but doctors at Santiago Bernabeu comfirmed that the footballer will miss tomorrow's match between Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspurs.

"Benzema has no chance of playing in this game, he could not take part of the last training sessions" Mourinho stated to the press.

Some other key players are still in doubt, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcelo and Angel Di Maria. But Mourinho hopes that in the end they will be fit for the match.

Raul rescued a 1-1 draw against Valencia

2011-02-15T19:56:00.000-08:00

German Schalke 04 visited Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium for the Champions League. Roberto Soldado scored the opener for the Spanish team in the first half. But Raul Gonzalez proved that he is still a world-class striker by netting the equalizer.

Valencia coach Unai Emery expressed that "unfortunately for us, Raul had a superb performance." In fact, with this goal Raul is the top scorer of European competitions in history, with 70 goals.

Felix Magath said the result was well-deserved for Schalke, a team that recovered from the initial dominance of Valencia, and managed to get a good result at the end of the game.

Champions League 2011: Round of 16 Schedule

2011-02-11T14:40:00.000-08:00

The Champions League is back nexxt week. This is the official schedule for the Round of 16 matches, with some very interesting duels to watch:

Tuesday, 15 February 2011

• 20:45 AC Milan vs. Tottenham Hotspurs

• 20:45 Valencia vs. Schalke 04

Wednesday, 16 February 2011

• 20:45 Arsenal vs. FC Barcelona

• 20:45 AS Roma vs. Shakhtar Donetsk

Tuesday, 22 February 2011

• 20:45 København vs. Chelsea FC

• 20:45 Lyon vs. Real Madrid

Wednesday, 23 February 2011

• 20:45 Marseille vs. Manchester United FC

• 20:45 Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich

Extreme emotions in 2-2 draw between Milan and Madrid

2010-11-03T23:08:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid is still one of the strongest favorites to win this Champions League season. Tonigh AC Milan fought hard to beat them, but in the end it was impossible. The final 2-2 draw was a fair result.

Gonzalo Higuain scored the first goal of the match and the popular "Pipo" Inzaghi netted a double to put Milan on top. But Pedro Leon scored the last-minute equalizer after a precise pass by Benzema.

Mourinho expressed his happiness with big gestures, and the spanish supporters were delighted with the performance of their team. As for Allegri's side, the future in the competition remains unclear.

Unstoppable Manchester United beat Bursaspor

2010-11-02T21:52:00.000-07:00

The "Red Devils" are improving with every game, and tonight's 3-0 win over Bursaspor was a clear hint for the rest of the powerful clubs that Ferguson's side is after the crown again.

European teams usually say that is hard to play in Turkey, but Manchester United was really confortable against Bursaspor. And the triumph came with goals by Darren Fletcher, Gabriel Obertan and an own goal by Ali Tandoğan.

United is the leader of a group that includes Valencia and Rangers, and they are three points away from qualification.

Current Champions Inter defeated by Tottenham

2010-11-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Tottenham Hotspurs made history tonight by defeating current champions Inter of Milan 3-1. The engish goals were netted by Rafael Van der Vaart, Peter Crouch and Roman Pavlyuchenko.

The british team was a fair winner, since they proved to have options in their midfield and offensive zone. As for the italian powerhouse, you can't tell this is the same team that won this tournament four months ago.

Samuel Eto'o was the main and only real weapon in the italian attack. He managed to score one goal, but that was not enough to beat the Spurs. Even Diego Milito and Coutinho were not able to save their team from defeat.

Valencia in the next stage, Barcelona not yet

2010-11-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Valencia defeated Rangers FC 3-0 with a double scored by Roberto Soldado. The spanish striker was the hero of the night with a superb performance in this Champions League game.

Coach Unai Emer was decided to get the three points and used many offensive men on the field, all of them lead by Soldado and Aduriz. The final result demonstrate he was right.

As for Barcelona, they only got a 1-1 draw against FC København in Denmark. Despite an explosive beginning which included a nice goal by Lio Messi, the local team was talented enough to equalize one minute after that, thanks to Claudemir.

Guardiola's team remain in the first position of their group, but they have not yet secured a ticket for the next stage.

Spartak Moskva lost Parshivlyuk for the rest of the season

2010-10-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

Even though he is really young, Sergei Parshivlyuk is facing one of the most difficult challenges in his career so far. The FC Spartak Moskva's defender will miss the rest of the Champions League first stage, due to a knee injury.

The problem was evident after the game that his club played against FC Sibir Novosibirsk. The medical test confirmed that he will have to go under surgery and miss the rest of the season.

As we know, the 21-year-old footballer recently made his debut with the Russian national team.

Real Madrid earned some respect back in Europe after defeating AC Milan

2010-10-19T15:53:00.001-07:00

This Real Madrid goes high speed and their huge talent was too much for a disappointing AC Milan team. The game at the Santiago Bernabeu finished 2-0.

Cristiano Ronaldo netted the opener with a nice free-kick shoot that passed between to men in the barrier. The second goal was scored by Özil after an unlicky move of Bonera. And all of this only in the first ten minutes of the game.

AC Milan tried hard to equalize the score but Ronaldinho, Ibrahimovic and Gattuso didn't have a good night. Very few attacks of the Italian team finished with a clear shoot to Casillas' goal.

Now Mourinho's side are leaders of Group G. And the Portuguese coach was elated with the performance of his team: "It's been a fantastic game. I hope that our supporters had just the same feeling" Mourinho expressed.

Real Madrid vs. AC Milan: Casillas knows that Ronaldinho is not the same

2010-10-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas said that the prime time of AC Milan's Ronaldinho was four years ago, when he was part of Barcelona. "He is not the same anymore" the goalkeeper said about the Brazilian striker.

AC Milan will battle Real Madrid tomorrow in the Champions League, and the field will be full of old buddies and rivals. As for Casillas, his last encounters with Italian clubs left no good memories for him.

As for Mourinho, the coach said that it's "just another game" and either if they win or lose, life will go on. "It's the most important match against a really strong and experienced team, but our young team is just as good and they keep improving in every game."

2010/2011 UEFA Champions League Groups decided

2010-08-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

Monaco was the chosen place to reveal the eight groups of the UEFA Champions League for this season. After the draw, the world will be expecting for some really interesting matches like Real Madrid against AC Milan, Manchester United vs. Valencia and Inter against Werder Bremen, to name just a few. The Group stage will begin on September 14, 2010, and the so expected final game will take place at Wembley Stadium on May 28, 2011.

GRUPO A
Inter Milán - Italy
W. Bremen - Germany
Tottenham - England
FC Twente - Netherlands

GRUPO B
O. Lyon - France
Benfica - Portugal
Schalke 04 - Germany
H. Tel-Aviv - Israel

GRUPO C
Manchester United - England
Valencia - Spain
Rangers - Scotland
Bursaspor - Turkey

GRUPO D
Barcelona - Spain
Panathinaikos - Greece
Copenhague - Denmark
Rubin Kazan - Russia

GRUPO E
Bayern - Germany
Roma - Italy
Basilea - Switzerland
CFR Cluj - Romania

GRUPO F
Chelsea - England
O. Marsella - France
S. Moscú - Russia
Zilina - Slovakia

GRUPO G
Milan - Italy
Real Madrid - Spain
Ajax - Netherlands
Auxerre - France

GRUPO H
Arsenal - England
Shakhtar - Ukrania
S. Braga - Portugal
Partizan - Serbia

Clash of the Titans: Inter Milan battles Barcelona in the first semifinal of the Champions League

2010-04-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

They meet for the third time this Champions League season, at it will be a tough game just like the previous ones. Barcelona was forced to travel to Italy by bus, but that is no excuse to fail at this point. Guardiola plans to use his most lethal footballers against Mourinho's side.

Inter is having some troubles at the domestic league - they just lost the pole position to AS Rome - but Wesley Sneijder, Samuel Eto'o and Diego Milito are too dangerous, and Guardiola is aware of this.

One of the most atractive facts of this game is that strikers from both sides will face their former teams: Samuel Eto'o spend many seasons at Barcelona, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the frontman of Inter for many years. All these ingredients make of this the most expected games in years.

Champions League Semifinals: Barcelona vs. Bayern Munich and Inter vs. Lyon

2010-04-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

The epic performance of Lionel Messi against Arsenal and the revenge of Bayern Munich eliminating Manchester United were the highlights of the Champions League quarterfinals.

The Argentinian wizard scored four goals and crushed the Gunners with a stunning 4-1 (6-3 agg.). Now Barcelona will face Inter Milan in semifinals. The italians defeated CSKA by 1-0 and got the ticket with no big efforts.

Louis Van Gaal's Bayern lost to Manchester United 3-2 but the goals as visitor gave then the pass to the semis. Manchester United had a perfect start with 2 goals in the first seven minutes, but the German team proved to be a big club in history just like their rivals.

Bayern will face French powerhouse Lyon, who lost to Bordeaux but classified due to aggregate score. As we know, the final game will take place in Madrid this year.

Many stars to miss Barcelona-Arsenal clash due tu injuries and sanctions

2010-04-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger has 7 key players out of this game. Guardiola will use a new defensive line since Pique and Puyol were red carded.

Barcelona and Arsenal will battle for a place in the semifinals of the Champions League. Their first match at the Emirates Stadium ended 2-2 but Guardiola's team has many more chances since they scored two goals as visitors.

Arsenal will not be able to use Robin Van Persie, Cesc Fabregas, William Gallas, Alex Song, Andrei Arshavin, Aaron Ramsey and maybe even Sol Campbell.

British media has already labeled this game as "mission impossible" for the Gunners. Indeed, even when Guardiola can't use Puyol and Pique, he still has Messi, Xavi and Henry available.

Arsenal with bad luck: Song to miss match against Barcelona

2010-04-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

After losing Fabregas, Gallas and Arshavin, now Arsenal will have to face their next Champions League game without the talented footballer from Cameroon due to a knee injury.

Song took part of the last Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers FC last saturday. Initial reports suggested that the injury was not serious but finally Wenger revealed that the African player would miss the match with the Catalan team.

The Gunners will arrive at Barcelona today with 18 players picked by Wenger, forced to align a new squad without many of their most important footballers. This is the final list for the match: Almunia, Eduardo Da Silva, Fabianski, Diaby, Nasri, Denílson, Mérida, Walcott, Eastmond, Rosicky, Traore, Eboué, Sagna, Clichy, Vermaelen, Campbell, Bendtner and Silvestre.

Wayne Rooney to be out for three weeks

2010-04-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Alex Ferguson confirmed that his star footballer Wayne Rooney will rest for three weeks due to his ankle injury. Therefore, he will miss the next games against Chelsea and Bayern Munich, but he will be fit for the World Cup.

As we know, Rooney suffered the injury in the last 2-1 defeat against Bayern Munich for the Champions League.

The scene that took place in Munich suggested that Wayne could share the same destiny with David Beckham and lose their World Cup participation. Fortunately, it was not that serious.

Arsenal vs. Barcelona: Guardiola believes that possession of the ball is the key to beat Wenger's team

2010-03-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

The catalan coach says that possession of the ball is extremely important to achieve a victory in their clash against the Gunners. With extremely talented players like Xavi, Messi or Thierry Henry, it should be a simple task for Barcelona.

Barcelona's coach knows how football is: "Arsenal will play to their strengths, so we will do it so". We will defend each ball very agressively and attack in the same way.

He said to be honored of play at the Emirates Stadium: "It's an honor for us to come to this stadium to face such a mythical club, a really good rival for many years who are an example of how to play good football".

Van Gaal is proud of his team after win over Manchester United.

2010-03-31T08:46:00.001-07:00

Louis van Gaal is convinced that their 2-1 victory over Manchester United was fair. Frank Ribery and Ivica Olić scored the winner goals for Bayern and the coach praises them as well as his whole team.

Bayern Munich manager said: "To recieve a goal so early was not easy to accept, but it happens. Football is like this. It was also incredible the way we played in front of one of the best clubs in the World. The first half we fought hard to be superior, and in the second half we totally achieve it. I'm proud of my footballer".

Sir Alex Ferguson was not happy with the result but he thinks the goal they scored in the first minutes can be vital to get the ticket to the semis: "We did not perform well, we keep giving the ball away. In the last years that has been our style, so we are responsibles of our own defeat. But Bayern Munich deserves to be congratulated, they did a great game".

It's also important to say that English star Wayne Rooney suffered a sever injury at the end of the match, and his whole country awaits for the diagnosis.

Bayern Munich vs. Manchester United: Ribery warns about Wayne Rooney

2010-03-30T09:45:00.001-07:00

There are only few hours left before the Manchester United - Bayern Munich clash begins, and French striker Franck Ribery is convinced that the English footballer is the main reason why Manchester United is achieving things in the last years, and has become even more important this season. Stopping him is the key to win the game

"Rooney is proving his class this season and I am truly happy for him. He's hungry of victory. Players like him give everything for their teams. However, even when the whole world sees us losing this match, I think we have a great chance."

Bayern coach Louis Van Gaal agrees with his footballer: "Rooney is hard to mark out of the game. However, we must deal with that. The good thing is that we have enough quality."

The game will take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Arjen Robben might be out of duel with Manchester United

2010-03-29T13:43:00.001-07:00

Bayern Munich coach Louis Van Gaal stated that if Robben in not "100% ready, he will not play".

The quarterfinals opening game between Manchester United and Bayern Munich is a really expected derby in Europe, and no player in the world would like to miss it.

"He is not injured, but the muscle is tired. Robben is really important for the squad but I need players that are 100% fit for the match" Van Gaal said.

The coach assured that they proved to be better than great teams like Juventus and Fiorentina, but they must beat Manchester United to see if they are meant to reach important stages.

Arsenal's William Gallas to miss Champions League match against Barcelona

2010-03-25T08:46:00.001-07:00

French defender William Gallas will not play the first leg of the Arsenal vs. Barcelona clash.

As we know, the London team is facing one of the most difficult games in the last years, hoping that they can eliminate Messi's team and reach the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was clear when he said that Gallas would not recover from a calf injury in time to battle Guardiola's squad: "William is back from his rehabilitation today and I believe he will return to full training this weekend. However, he is too short to be available for our game at Birmingham this weekend - and certainly as well for the clash with Barcelona.

Quarterfinals: Arsenal to face Barcelona, Manchester United to play against Bayern Munich

2010-03-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

The city of Nyon, Switzerland, was the place for the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw. And some really unpredictible encounters came up: Arsenal will face current champions Barcelona, while Manchester United has to battle Bayern Munich.

Arsene Wenger side was drawn to face the heavily favored defending champions from Spain on Friday, with the winner potentially facing Italian powerhouse Inter Milan.

To complete the schedule, Lyon will have a French battle Bordeaux, and Inter Milan will play with CSKA Moscow.

According to the original schedule, this matches will be played March 30-31, with the return legs on April 6-7. The semifinals are scheduled for April 20-21 and 27-28.

Barcelona and Bordeaux in Quarterfinals: Brilliant Messi leads win over Stuttgart

2010-03-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

In a really brilliant night, Barcelona crushed Stuttgart 4-0 on Wednesday and advanced to the quarterfinals stage of the Champions League

Lionel Messi scored two amazing goals and proved to be the best footballer nowadays. Pedro Rodriguez and Bojan Krkic also netted as the Blaugranas went through 5-1 on aggregate. The German team could do nothing to avoid the defeat.

President Laporta stated his satisfaction with the performance of his squad: "I am really satisfied. It was important to get to the quarter-finals. The team deserves it. They demonstrated a high level, we are on the right track. I like that we are going after our dreams, and that's important".

In the other match of the day, Bordeaux defeated Olympiakos 2-1 and got a 3-1 aggregate victory. The French club reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 1988.

Talented Yoann Gourcuff and Marouane Chamakh scored to overcome Kostas Mitroglou's goal for the visitors.

"Right after our goal, we had a few chances.If our footballers had believed it in more, then the outcome could have been different" Olympiakos boss coach Bozidar Bandovic regreted the result.

Inter destroy Chelsea dreams of European glory, and CSKA Moscow makes history by eliminating Sevilla

2010-03-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

Former Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho guided his powerful Inter Milan to a 1-0 win over Chelsea FC. The 3-1 aggregate score allows the Italian team to qualify for the next stage of the Champions League and leaves the English club with a new dissapointing season ending in Europe.

It was not going to be easy for Mourinho to face his old team, a club where he was able to lift so many trophies. But after his victory, he said: "Today I was the enemy, and today the enemy won".

The Portuguese coach celebrated calmly when his African star Samuel Eto'o scored the first and only goal of the match, after fellow striker Diego Milito had missed the chance to seal Chelsea's fate even earlier.

In Tuesday's other game for the round of 16, CSKA Moscow surprised everybody by defeating the Spanish powerhouse Sevilla. Tomas Necid and Japanese player Keisuke Honda scored for the Russian team.

Chelsea will pay US$ 50 millions for 'Kun' Agüero

2009-11-19T09:12:00.000-08:00

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti has told Chelsea board that they need a strong and talented midfielder for the next season, and that player is the popular Sergio Agüero from Atletico Madrid. Now the Stamford Bridge team itends to offer more than US$ 50 millions to sign the footballer, even when he will not be able to play the Champions League with the blues this season.

Some spanish newspapers have suggested that Atletico Madrid is asking for more than US$ 60 millions to sell the Argentinian player, but the negotiations have already started.

If the operation takes place, it will be a new record for any Premier League Club, even over Robinho's move from Real Madrid to Manchester City last season.

Pepe Reina unhappy with Liverpool's situation in the Champions League

2009-11-05T22:34:00.000-08:00

Liverpool only rescued a draw against Lyon at their last Champions League match, and now their situation in the European Competition is not the best. Goalkeeper Pepe Reina knows it and says it's "disgraceful" that his team depends on other's results.

Indeed, Liverpool could win their final two games and not qualify for the next stage of the Champions League. Lyon has to tie with Fiorentina in their next match to help Pepe's team keep alive.

The keeper is honest about it: "We have got two games to go and disgracefully we are not depending on ourselves; we need Lyon to get something in Fiorencia. Our priority is to win our two games that remain and we will keep trying. Miracles? They happen, particularly at Liverpool."

Lyon has proved to be a really tough team and Fiorentina has enourmous talent in players such as Gilardino and Vargas. So, there are not too many chances for Benitez's squad. The next weeks will be very important for Reina and his teammates.

Antonio Valencia scores dramatic equalizer for Manchester United

2009-11-04T14:32:00.000-08:00

The russian team surprised the world scoring three goals against the red giants at the Old Trafford, but Manchester United leveled the game in the last six minutes.

CSKA Moscow's goals were scored by Alan Dzagoev, Milos Krasic and Vasili Berezutsky, stunning the english fans at the stadium. But goals scored by Michael Owen, Paul Scholes and Antonio Valencia - in the last minute - took United to the next stage of the Champions League. What's more, United could have won it but Wayne Rooney's shot hit the bar.

Sir Alex Ferguson was satisfied with the effort of his team: "We were absolutely fantastic in terms of our desire to win the match and were unlucky at times in the game, their goalkeeper made some fantastic saves, we hit the post and missed a lot of other chances... If you want excitement come to Old Trafford".

Amazing 1-1 tie between Real Madrid and AC Milan

2009-11-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

The impressive match between Real Madrid and AC Milan ended with a 1-1 tie, and a good football show for the fans. The great performance of both teams comfirmed the rivalty showed weeks ago at the Bernabeu.

French star Karim Benzema opened the score for Madrid after a great move made by Kaka. But Ronaldinho scored the 1-1 with a penalty shot and proved that he is playing at his best level again.

Pellegrini had a really tough week and was satisfied with the performance of his team: "I'm happy because I think we played well. We didn't lose, but we are still on course for finishing top of the group. Normally, I am happy if the result reflects what we did on the field. But tonight definitely didn't reflect what we did."

Milan coach Leonardo was happy as well: “They played better in the first half, created spaces and chances. We were too deep. I'd say the second half was the opposite, as we had the better of it and overall the draw is the fai result for what we saw. To be honest, we feel a bit of regret, as I felt we could get the three points and strike them at the right time. I'm happy with the way the squad did it tonight.”

Barcelona reach the glory in Rome

2009-05-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

Barcelona proved to be the best squad in the world by beating Manchester United 2-0 and conquering the most wanted trophy in Europe: the Champions League

The blaugranas controlled the ball for long stretches with its unhurried and clever passing, attacked incessantly, held tight with a patchwork defense and made a tactical switch at forward, placing Lionel Messi as a central striker and shifting Samuel Eto’o to the right wing. Eventually, Messi drifted into midfield to secure possession. Both he and Eto’o delivered goals as Barcelona won its third European title and second in four years.

It will be left to Barcelona’s supporters to gleefully debate whether this is the Catalans’ greatest team, now that the first-year boss Pep Guardiola has guided his team to the Spanish League title, the Spanish Cup and now the European Cup with a style that is familiarly elegant and ebullient. For a night, it was enough for Barcelona supporters — seemingly the vast majority among 72,000 at Olympic Stadium of Rome — to celebrate with cameras that flashed like fireflies as the trophy was held aloft in a shower of confetti.

“We are not the best team of history, but we have played the best season in history to win three titles and the way we won,” expressedGuardiola, 38, who has won a European championship both as a Barcelona player and boss.

The Red Devils, meanwhile, lost for the first time in 26 Champions League matches and failed to defend its 2008 title. Even with four attackers in the second half, the English Premier League champions often seemed lethargic, uninvolved — at times unrecognizable — after missing several chances in the early minutes of the match.

So strong and constrictive on most nights, the Manchester United defense was unable to subdue the organized and creative Barcelona attack, which flowed with the inevitability of water through any available crease. Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester manager, dismissed his defense as “shoddy.”

Pep had urged his Barcelona footballers to be daring, and after the victory said, “We wanted to say we played and were not being cowards.” He added, “There’s nothing more dangerous than not taking risks.”

Barcelona’s one apparent weakness, a depleted defense, never became a liability. Dani Alves and Éric Abidal were suspended and Rafa Márquez was shelved with injury. But Guardiola found a reliable solution, placing Carles Puyol at right back, Yaya Touré in central defense alongside Gerard Piqué and Sylvinho at left back. They remained impenetrable.

Guardiola made another adroit move up front. Last year in the Champions League semifinals, Manchester United’s left back, Patrice Evra, had handcuffed Messi on the right wing. On Wednesday, Guardiola countered with Messi as a central striker, moving Eto’o outside. Later, Leo Messi retreated into midfield and, along with Xavi Hernández, helped Barcelona control the ball as if it were tethered to his foot. Sometimes, it seemed minutes passed before Manchester United could regain possession from the smaller, more dexterous Barcelona footballers.

“If they get in front of you, they’re very difficult to beat,” Ferguson stated. “They can keep the ball in areas of the field where it is difficult to protect.”

Early on, it was Manchester United that threatened to dominate. After missing several inviting opportunities, though, the team deflated, never regaining its spirit and vigor.

In the second minute, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo drove a low, hard free kick that bounced and could not be smothered by Victor Valdés, the Barcelona goalkeeper. Park Ji-sung, Manchester United’s tireless winger and the first Asian player to participate in a Champions League final, pounced on the rebound, but a Barcelona defender slid across his path. The shot deflected high over the crossbar. Ronaldo later lashed two shots wide, unfulfilled chances that Manchester United could not afford.

“Losing that first goal was decisive for us,” Sir Alex Ferguson stated. “We couldn’t recover from that.”

Barcelona quickly struck back. In the 10th minute, midfielder Andrés Iniesta, recovered from a thigh injury, played the ball to Eto’o on the right flank. Eto’o, a Cameroonian forward, cut sharply inside, turning the defender Nemanja Vidic, leaving him corkscrewed and helpless. Eto’o punched the ball into the net off the left hand of Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, giving Barcelona the only goal it would need.

After halftime, Manchester United clearly required of an infusion of energy, but neither the replacement forwards Carlos Tévez nor Dimitar Barbatov could kick-start a somnolent engine.

In the 70th minute, Puyol stole a pass for Barcelona, beginning a magical sequence that finished with Xavi chipping a superb pass from outside the area to a waiting Messi, six yards from the goal, unattended by two defenders. He headed the ball over van der Sar’s head and Barcelona took an insurmountable 2-0 lead. Now it is Messi, not Ronaldo, who is certain to gain favor as the world’s greatest player.

“We didn’t have to win to know he’s the best,” Guardiola stated.

In the end, though, Barcelona did win, primarily by getting the ball and refusing to give it back. “For us, we are a horrible team, a disaster team, when we don’t have the ball,” Guardiola admitted. “We need the ball. We got it” he concluded

Prince William from England and King Juan Carlos from Spain to attend the Champions League Final

2009-05-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

According to many news agencies, Prince William is to attend tonight's Champions League final between Manchester United and Barcelona in the italian city of Rome, in his capacity as President of the English Football Association.

In fact, the Prince will meet key officials and other dignitaries in private before the match, during half-time and after the match. The Prince will be accompanied by senior English FA officials, including chairman, Lord Triesman.

As for King Juan Carlos of Spain, he will also attend the match in support of Barcelona and Prince William will be granted an audience with The King before the match.

However, what makes this game so important that the royal families of both competing nations should want to be in attendance, when they can view proceedings from the comfort of their sumptuous sofas.

We could say that the Champions League final is the biggest, most watched and most eagerly-anticipated club football encounter in the world.

It's interesting to notice that Manchester United are the champions of England, Barcelona are the champions of Spain and, by common consensus, the English Premier League and Spanish Primera Liga are the two most glamorous leagues in European football.

Thierry Henry ready to win the Champions League for the first time

2009-05-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

French super star Thierry Henry believes he can fire the Blaugranas to an historic treble triumph in the Champions League final now he has rediscovered his love for football. As we know, the forward was criticised by fans and Spanish media for lacking the verve he showed at Arsenal following his June 2007 transfer from the Premier League club.

Despite the critics, Henry has been back to his best this season, scoring 25 goals to help Josep Guardiola’s team win the domestic League and Cup double.

A victory over Manchester United in Wednesday’s European Final game would give the Catalan club their first ever treble and confirm Henry’s place in the club’s hall of fame.

The popular "Titi" himself is just delighted to have finally become comfortable with his form in Catalonia.

“I think that I’ve definitely changed opinions about me this season. Now I feel the affection of the Nou Camp fans, compared to the really tough times with our home crowd on occasions last year,” he admitted.

"In fact, I like that people question me, I use that to motivate myself and try to prove them wrong. My opinion is that this is a club where, to triumph, you have to understand not only the fans but the club, the city and the fact that Catalonia is not Spain.

"I'm so eager to get the title and finally achieve the only crown i don't have in football. And it will be an honor to win it over one of the most powerful teams of all times, Manchester United" he concluded.

Apparently, Guardiola trust Henry's qualities and the Frenchman will be a starter in tomorrow's important game.

UEFA Champions League Referee: Massimo Busacca

2009-05-26T20:58:00.000-07:00

In a very surprising statement, the main board of the UEFA announced that Massimo Busacca, from Switzerland, will performe as the referee for the Champions League final between Barcelona FC and Manchester United. According to the press in Switzerland, the quality of his work is flawless.

In fact, wednesday's final clash in Rome's Stadio Olimpico will be Busacca's second European club final, after the all-Spanish UEFA Cup title match between Sevilla and Espanyol in 2007.

We mus remember that he awarded visiting Manchester United a penalty for a handball after only three minutes of the first-leg match, though Cristiano Ronaldo shot wide. The match ended scoreless and the Red Devils won 1-0 at Old Trafford to reach the final, where they beat Chelsea.

The referee has officiated in 32 Champions League matches in his career, including United's 1-0 win at FC Porto to advance to the semifinals as one of six this season.

What's more, UEFA also appointed Busacca to referee the 2008 European Championship semifinal between Germany and Turkey.

It's interestin to notice that FIFA has selected Busacca on its list of referees for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. That means that in the end, he is a good decision.

Liverpool 4-0 win over Madrid caused the Spanish newspapers fury

2009-03-12T01:38:00.000-07:00

Every single publication in Spain reacted with strong criticism against Real Madrid after they being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League, destroyed by a super efficient Liverpool

Indeed, "Madrid in the worst crisis", "Liverpool, white cemetery" and "Madrid crashed" were among the headlines after a 4-0 defeat saw the nine-times European champions lose the last-16 tie 5-0 on aggregate. The result means the popular "merengues" have failed to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for a fifth straight year.

The scoreline might have been worse were it not for a string of saves from Iker Casillas in the Real goal and Spain's newspapers did not hold back in their assessments of Juande Ramos's side's performance.

"The english powerhouse Liverpool gave a provincial-looking Madrid a lesson in what Europe is," wrote the daily ABC. "Their devastating play made Madrid look like they weren't at the game: no possession, no ideas, no energy and lacking control or width. A stellar Torres knocked Madrid to the ground and Gerrard buried them."

Real Madrid's recent 10-game winning streak in La Liga, which ended with Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to city rivals Atlético, was all but forgotten.

The old newspaper "El País" blamed the Spanish champions' poor showing partly on the club's recent institutional problems which it said urgently needed to be resolved. Real have an interim president following the resignation of Ramón Calderón in a vote-rigging scandal and El Pais said elections must be held sooner rather than later so a new president can breathe life into the club.

"Madrid have hit rock bottom," wrote the publication. "They have been there for a while on the institutional side and now they have fallen off a cliff in the sporting arena."

Didier Drogba scores to beat Juventus and give Ranieri an awful "welcome back"

2009-02-25T23:35:00.000-08:00

It's good to hear that Drogba goal leads Chelsea to victory again. The African striker, his season hampered by injury, suspension and a fallout with axed coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, looked back to his predatory most amazing at the moment he took a pass from Salomon Kalou and despatched the ball beyond Gianluigi Buffon in the 12th minute.

Former Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri, now in charge of Juve, was given a warm reception by the home supporters before the game. Ranieri is still held in high esteem by Chelsea supporters even though he failed to win a single trophy during his four-year stint at Stamford Bridge.

Hiddink was taking charge of a Chelsea side at home for the first time since his temporary appointment and it was the hosts who made the first inroads towards goal with Jose Bosingwa forcing Buffon into a save with a left-foot shot from the edge of the area in the fourth minute.

Indeed, four minutes later Drogba almost opened the scoring at the moment he got ahead of his marker to turn a cross from Bosingwa just over the crossbar.

But the Ivorian put the home side in front in the 12th minute at the moment a superb through ball from Kalou provided him with a clear-cut shooting opportunity and Drogba supplied the required finish in style. It was the perfect start for the Premier League side although Juventus claimed Drogba was offside before he fired the ball home from 10 yards.

In the 15th minute, Drogba must have made it two at the moment he met a corner from Frank Lampard inside the six-yard box, but he inexplicably headed wide.

The italian powerhouse enjoyed plenty of possession after the interval but found the Chelsea defense in fine form, with Petr Cech only having to deal with a succession of long-range efforts.

Marco Marchionni and Alessandro del Piero both tried their luck from distance and Pavel Nedved went close near the end for the visitors.

Chelsea also had opportunitys to double their lead, notably at the moment a 20-yard effort from Nicolas Anelka flashed inches wide, but Chelsea held on for the victory.

"We maybe must have netted a second goal to give us some breathing space for the second leg. I felt we suffered a little bit in the second half and Juventus are a difficult side to play, but I'm happy with the result," Hiddink concluded.

Didier Drogba netted the only goal as Chelsea beat Juventus 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to give Guus Hiddink's side a slender advantage ahead of their Champions League last-16 second leg in Turin.

Liverpool heroic win over Madrid in Spain

2009-02-25T23:29:00.000-08:00

The not-so-famous Yossi Benayoun netted with a late header Wednesday to give Liverpool a valuable 1-0 away win at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 knockout match.

In a clash of few opportunities, Benayoun powered Fabio Aurelio's curling free kick past the Merengues' goalkeeper Iker Casillas in the 82nd minute to give the English team an all-important away goal.

Casillas denied first-half scoring opportunitys from Liverpool's Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso, while Arjen Robben created the Spanish champion's most amazing effort with a rising shot that went through the fingertips of goalkeeper Pepe Reina in the 71st but over the crossbar.

Indeed, both squads were largely restricted to long-range efforts. Alonso nearly caught Casillas off his line from inside his own half in the 45th but the Madrid goalkeeper backpedalled before tipping the ball over the crossbar.

Nine-time champion Madrid has underperformed in the tournament in recent seasons and hasn't reached the quarter-finals since 2004. Nevertheless, president Vicente Boluda had predicted a 3-0 victory.

Madrid, which came into the gameon a nine-clash league winning streak, started the better of the two sides. Robben found Raul Gonzalez inside the area as early as the fifth minute, but Madrid's all-time leading scorer failed to beat Pepe Reina with his angled effort.

An amazing Reina again denied Madrid in the 16th minute, parrying Marcelo's hard drive.

Casillas dove to his right in the 21st to keep Torres' shot out, and the Spain forward appeared to hurt his right ankle soon after.

Robben was Madrid's biggest attacking threat, darting free into the middle in the 39th only to send his shot wide. A minute later, the Netherlands forward duplicated the play with exactly the same result.

Madrid coach Juande Ramos brought on Guti for Marcelo to start the second half but Liverpool pushed up with Alonso volleying wide in the 50th. Two minutes later, Robben dribbled through two defenders into the area but hit the ball into the side netting.

Torres didn't manage to snap his scoring drought at the Bernabeu as the former Atletico Madrid forward came off to jeers from the 80,000-plus in the 62nd, replaced by Ryan Babel.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard came on in the 87th for his first appearance after a three-week layoff due to a hamstring injury.

Liverpool will be without Riera for the return leg after the Spanish midfielder was booked in the 84th.

PD: It seems like Madrid is having a hard time to get victories at home, if we recall the defeat against Juventus.

President Michel Platini angry with interference in Champions League

2009-02-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

According to the media, UEFA president has called on the European Union not to interfere in the Champions League regulations if it wants to impose financial restraints and a possible salary cap on teams.

Indeed, Platini wants to push through rules that would cap debt and links between footballers salaries and turnover as he seeks to contain runaway spending.

As we know, the European Union could interfere if it touches on the economic free market rules. Platini insists UEFA should not be bound by that.

We must consider that Platini told the European Parliament on Wednesday: "We must be able to set the conditions on the competitions we organize."

Liverpool ask UEFA to change match date due to Hillsborough anniversary

2009-02-18T22:19:00.000-08:00

The board at Anfield have written to UEFA to ask that the date of their potential Champions League quarter-final second leg be changed to avoid a clash with the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.

It’s amazing to notice that if Rafael Benitez's side get past Real Madrid in the last 16, they are currently scheduled to face their next opponents for the second time on April 15.

In fact, that is exactly two decades since 96 Liverpool fans died at Sheffield Wednesday's ground before and during the FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest.

We must consider that Liverpool are keen to keep the date free so memorials can take place and have asked UEFA allow them to play the encounter on the 14th if they progress.

"We wrote to UEFA last year, pointing out the significance of April 15 if we do get to the quarter-final, especially as it is the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster," a Liverpool spokesman expressed.

"We have asked not to play on that date and that April 14 should be considered instead.

"UEFA has replied acknowledging the significance of the date and confirming they will do their best to support our request if we progress."

Ronaldo now wants to defeat Mourinho's side

2009-02-06T00:36:00.000-08:00

Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo is acting as the club’s very own ‘Mr. Motivator’ as he has attempted to fire up his side-mates ahead of the Champions League showdowns against Italian giants Inter.

The two sides lock horns in what promises to be the clash of the last 16 stage. Ronaldo tasted Champions League success last season as he shot his side towards glory, and the World Player of the Year is confident that the Red Devils can hold onto their European crown.

Inter will not make life simple for United. Jose Mourinho, the team boss of the Italian club, would love nothing more than to send his old adversaries crashing out of the competition. Nevertheless, Ronaldo insists his side have what it takes to beat the Nerazzurri and silence Mourinho.

"We will be tested to our maximum against Inter," Ronaldo told Inside United.

"I always dreamed of earning this trophy [the European Cup]. I felt like a little child with his [new] toy at the time I touched it last season. It was a great feeling.

"We are a great side with great players."

Mourinho has already been spying on United ahead of the big encounters, the first of which takes place at the end of this month. Tickets for both legs have already sold out.

The Old Trafford side are favourites to eliminate the Italians, however, ‘The Special One' has experience of upsetting the English club.

John Arne Riise injuried: Roma will miss him for almost a month

2009-02-06T00:34:00.000-08:00

Italian club AS Roma just learned that their left back John Arne Riise is expected to be out for three weeks. The talented player damaged his left knee ligaments.

The Norwegian international picked up the injury during the 2-1 victory over Palermo on January 28.

Tests were carried out on the left sided former Liverpool defender which ascertained that he would not need an operation.

Riise is now a doubt for the first leg Champions League clash with Arsenal on February 24, 2009.

Steven Gerard: I hope i can make it for the derby with Madrid

2009-02-06T00:31:00.000-08:00

Liverpool's deadline day sale of Robbie Keane has contributed to them heading into the Champions League knock-out stage with a squad two players short of the full complement, and Steven Gerrard's hamstring tear threatens to leave them further depleted for the visit to Real Madrid later this month.

In fact, UEFA allows a squad of 25 and though Sami Hyypia's name appears on the list Liverpool had to submit by 1 February – contrary to manager Rafael Benitez's suggestions last week that the defender was excluded – Jermaine Pennant, now on loan at Portsmouth, and Philippe Degen have been removed and Keane, nominally still on the list at the time Liverpool submitted it, is gone, leaving a squad of just 23.

Liverpool are not the only side below full potential. Chelsea have a squad of 21, Uefa revealed, with a further five on their B-list thought to be youngsters yet to break into Chelsea's senior ranks. B-list players must be under 22 and the four names on Liverpool's are the goalkeepers Dean Bouzanis and Martin Hansen, the midfielder Ryan Flynn, on loan at Wrexham, and the forward Nathan Ecclestone.

UEFA rejects Real Madrid bid for Diarra and Huntelaar

2009-01-09T14:01:00.001-08:00

Spanihs club Real Madrid have been knocked back by the UEFA board in their bid to register both Lassana Diarra and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar to play in the Champions League knockout stages.

Indeed, Real Madrid had hoped to overturn a rule which stipulated that only one player who has already played in a European competition other than the Champions League can be registered.

It's important to mention that Both January signings Diarra and Huntelaar had featured in the UEFA Cup for their previous clubs for Portsmouth and Ajax respectively.

However, UEFA have rejected Real's appeal and now the Spanish side must decide which player to register for the remainder of this season's competition.

The first team coach Juande Ramos is believed to favor adding Diarra to his depleted midfield options.

"UEFA confirmed that its Control and Disciplinary Body has reviewed the request of Real Madrid to be able to register two players who have already competed in UEFA competition this season as part of their A-list squad for the knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League," was officialy announced.

"The European body confirms that this was rejected in accordance with article 17.18 in the competition regulations which states that only one player who has played UEFA club competition matches for another competing club in the current season may exceptionally be registered. Any appeal to this decision will be heard next week."

Despite this bad news for Madrid, they could now take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Nemanja Vidic awaits for a ban in the Champions League after red card in Japan

2008-12-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

Manchester United talented defender Nemanja Vidic is going through an anxious wait to find out what punishment he will face for being sent off in the Club World Cup final that took place in Japan, a tournament that the Red team won with a very good performance.

Indeed, the Serbian received a straight red card for elbowing an opponent in the second half of United's win over Liga de Quito in Japan.

If the defender escapes with just a one-match UEFA ban, he will miss the first leg of his side's UEFA Champions League encounter with Inter Milan at the end of February.

However, if the punishment is more severe, the Serbian will be ruled out of the entire tie and possibly the first leg of the quarter-final should ManchesterUnited overcome Jose Mourinho's team,which will be able to use Adriano.

Juve beat Real Madrid in Bernabeu Stadium to qualify for the next stage

2008-11-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Italian Powerhouse Juventus from Turin joined Barcelona and Sporting Lisbon in the knockout round of the Champions League on Wednesday after two goals by Alessandro Del Piero gave the Italian team a 2-0 win at the favorite Real Madrid.

As for the defending champion, Manchester United, they are almost through following Ryan Giggs' 84th-minute header in a 1-1 draw at Celtic. But two more group leaders, Bayern Munich and Arsenal, were also held to draws and still have work to do from their final two matches.

With new Argentina national manager Diego Armando Maradona watching to see some of his countrymen in action, Italian veteran Del Piero, who first played in a Champions League final 12 years ago, scored in the 17th and 67th minutes at Bernabeu Stadium to give Juventus 10 points from four games.

"I'm so pleased to have scored in front of Maradona. I hope Diego comes to watch us play more often," said Alessandro Del Piero, who received a standing ovation from the Madrid fans in the 80,000 crowd.

"I live off these types of emotions. I'm pleased the fans gave me that applause when I came off. This is a crazy stadium and it was a very important game for us. It's a good moment for me."

Now, Claudio Ranieri's team is four ahead of Madrid and six ahead of Zenit St. Petersburg, which won 2-0 at BATE Borisov.

"I have to say that fortune wasn't on our side on several occasions, but this is a Champions League game so you have to move on," Madrid coach Bernd Schuster said. "There are still more games to play."

Although Zenit, last season's UEFA Cup winner, can reach 10 points by winning its last two games, that would mean Madrid could only finish with a maximum of nine, ensuring Juventus is guaranteed of finishing in the top two spots in Group H.

Controversy over last minute penalty in the Liverpool vs. Atletico Madrid match

2008-11-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

The experienced Swedish referee Martin Hansson has conceded he is actually unsure if he was right to award Liverpool a late penalty on Tuesday night.

Indeed, Hansson pointed to the spot in injury-time of the Reds' UEFA Champions League draw with Atletico Madrid after Steven Gerrard went down under a challenge from Marian Pernia.

Super captain Gerrard dispatched the penalty to cancel out Maxi Rodriguez's first-half goal and leave Rafa Benitez's side level on points with Atletico at the top of Group D.

Hansson admitted publicly: "From my angle, I am not sure if it was a penalty. I am not allowed to comment on specific situations according to Uefa."

The official has come in for criticism in Sweden in recent weeks after three debatable penalty decisions.

Odds ahead of Liverpool vs. Atletico Madrid

2008-11-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

British team Liverpool welcome Spanish side Atletico Madrid to Anfield, with both sides in prime position to progress from Group D.

We must remember that two wins in their opening two games had them level at the top of the group before Liverpool visited the Spanish capital a fortnight ago, and Simao's late equaliser for Atletico at the Vicente Calderon ensured that the situation remained that way heading into the reverse fixture.

Liverpool star frontman Fernando Torres missed the chance to make an emotional return to his old stomping ground due to a hamstring injury, but the Spanish international has a 70% chance of facing his former side tonight, according to his manager Rafael Benitez.

On the other shore, Luis Garcia and Florent Sinama Pongolle will make their first return to Merseyside since leaving the Reds. Both are assured a warm welcome, with Garcia in particular a former favourite with the Kop after hitting some vital goals on the Reds' memorable run to Champions League success in 2005.

In fact, Pongolle also made a valuable contribution on the road to Istanbul, scoring a goal in the crucial 3-1 win over Olympiacos that secured qualification from the group stages.

It was a dismal run in November last year that ensured Liverpool had no say in the Premier League title race at the end of the season. A loss tonight would have the doubters out in force again. But last year Liverpool's dip in domestic form coincided with three Champions League wins which were crucial to them staying in the competition and may also have saved Benitez's job.

A triumph tonight would all but assure the hosts of a place in the knock-out stages, and would then allow them to focus their attentions on the Premier League for a couple of months.

Atletico, you would imagine, would be relatively content with a draw given Liverpool's record at home in the Champions League in recent years. With their attacking threat, however, it would be no surprise if they were able to match Marseille's feat of 2007 by winning at Anfield.

But the Reds appear to have found some consistency and tonight may well prove to be a key juncture in their season.

Chelsea's Scolari might not to use Drogba yet

2008-11-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

Chelsea's coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has stated that key striker Didier Drogba is still some way off match fitness and as such will not start in Tuesday evening's away fixture in the Champions League against Italianpowerhouse AS Roma.

In fact, Scolari believes that Didier Drogba is only fit enough to play 20 or 25 minutes maximum and, therefore, French forward Nicolas Anelka, who scored a hat-trick at the weekend, will retain his first team place.

"I think Anelka will start the game but Drogba is not ready to start a game," Scolari informed the club's official website. "Drogba can play maybe 20-25 minutes, not more. So as he is in a better condition now, I will play Anelka.

"It is very important for our squad that they have confidence in our defence, because we have very good players in midfield and in attack and there are only one or two games where we have not made any goals.

"In this UEFA Champions League we have won two games and drawn one game 0-0, so I think that when I have very good defence I have very good attack," he said.

"I think that we need to arrive in the Final. We play very well, but we don't arrive until now in any position. We need to arrive in more finals and win more finals, and maybe then, after this, it is possible to say that we are better - but not right now" he stated.

Gunners looking forward to boost morale with a Champions League victory

2008-11-04T09:44:00.001-08:00

Arsenal coach and boss Arsene Wenger is relying upon a good performance against tough Fenerbahce in the Champions League to help lift his squad after a humbling week at home.

The London team have slipped six points behind leading pair FC Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League after a 4-4 draw with Tottenham and a shock 2-1 loss at lowly Stoke.

In fact, a quick response is essential to help keep alive hopes of a first English championship since 2004 and Wenger will be hoping Fenerbahce's players prove as accommodating as they did two weeks ago when they capitulated 5-2 to Arsenal in the national stadium of Turkey.

What's more, with an initial 1-1 draw at Dynamo Kiev and a 4-0 win over FC Porto already in the bag, victory against Fenerbahce could clinch Arsenal's place in the next round, allowing Wenger to concentrate on getting things together in the Premier League.

"I am convinced that once you qualify in the Champions League you can be completely focused and if needed, rest some players in the Champions League," Wenger said. "That is why for us, it is important to qualify as quickly as possible, especially as we didn't win our last game.

"Of course, we had two bad experiences recently and that is why it is important to come back to winning ways and to qualify."

But Arsene Wenger has just 15 fit players for the game, with Theo Walcott and Emmanuel Adebayor joining the list of injured players during Saturday's 2-1 loss at Stoke.

With Abou Diaby, Thomas Rosicky and Eduardo da Silva also on the sidelines, Wenger accused opponents of deliberately setting out to hurt his young team. Arsenal has not won a trophy since the combative Patrick Vieira left in 2005 and has since been accused of being easy to muscle out of games.

Arsenal's best performances since that FA Cup triumph have mostly come in Europe, with its biggest achievement being an appearance in the 2006 Champions League final.

As we know, Wenger reeled off the names of Walcott, Adebayor, Diaby, Rosicky, Eduardo and Bacary Sagna — who could recover from an injury sustained against Stoke in time to play Fenerbahce — and insisted that each was injured after being deliberately targeted.

As for French defender William Gallas, he will miss Wednesday's match but could return from a hamstring injury in time to face Manchester United on Saturday for the first of several games key to Arsenal's slim chances of winning the Premier League.

"We lost a match but we are six points behind the leaders," Wenger said. "It is the start of November and we have plenty of quality to get it back. The same persons who say we are not good, let them say it in three weeks when we are the best."

Celtic's Stephen McManu not interested in critics after Champions League defeat

2008-10-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

Celtic powerfull defender Stephen McManus brushed aside the adverse media reaction which followed Tuesday's Champions League defeat by the mercyless Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The Scottish current champions lost 3-0 in a one-sided encounter that had most pundits - and many Hoops fans - discussing the gap that has appeared to have grown between the two clubs since they met at the same stage of the tournament two seasons ago.

Celtic, without an away win in the competition in 19 attempts, are bottom of Group E with one point and are now battling with Danish side Aalborg for a UEFA Cup spot rather than looking to qualify for the knockout stages for the third season in succession.

However, ahead of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Hibernian at Parkhead, the Scotland defender was in no mood for the Manchester post mortem to continue.

"We are not really interested in what's been written to be perfectly honest," he said.

"We are just interested in the game tomorrow.

"It's evident, it's obvious, you don't need people to tell you. So as far as we are concerned, the Manchester United game is done.

"In football you always look to the next game, we move on and we give respect to Hibs.

"Hibs have been playing reasonably well recently and they will be excited about coming to our place.

"It's going to be a very tough game but we are up for it."

Indeed, McManus will come up against former team-mate Derek Riordan who returned to Easter Road in the summer after failing to pin down a regular first team spot at Parkhead following his move to Celtic two years ago.

But the big Scotland defender insists Riordan will not be the only threat to the champions.

"Derek will play the best that he can for himself and his club, that's what you do in football", McManus said.

"He's a good finisher but Steven Fletcher is a good finisher, Colin Nish is a good finisher and Dean Shiels can pop up with a few goals, so they can score which is the hardest thing in football.

"But we are capable of scoring goals as well, so we look forward to it."

Chelsea FC had a hard time to beat italian Roma

2008-10-26T16:50:00.001-07:00

It was a tough game indeed, but the victory might have been written for Chelsea by the Almighty. Luiz Felipe Scolari’s Chelsea defeated Roma 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League, held in the Stamford Bridge, London, on October 22.

The blues could have scored its first in the very second minute, had Nicolas Anelka not been flagged for offside. In the 3rd minute, De Rossi, the Roma striker missed the target. Luciano Spalletti, the Roma coach proved his dexterity in maintaining a hard line-up that really proved impregnable for the Blues to crack. In the 9th minute, Frank Lampard, the Chelsea striker made a fiery shot, but Doni, the Roma goalie made a brilliant save.

Philippe Mexès, the center back player of Roma committed a hard tackle, which earned him a yellow card in the 22nd minute. In the 24th minute, Lampard made a powerful but blind shot at the post. Florent Malouda, the left winger of the Blues was not spared by the Greek referee, Kyros Vassaras for showing excessive aggressiveness and was booked in the 30th minute. The first half ended with a blank scoreboard.

Both teams were keen for goals from the very beginning of the second half. Anelka and Salomon Kalou attempted at the target, but failed to score. In the 72nd minute, Jphn Terry, the Chelsea captain faced yellow card for tackling Francesco Totti, the Roma striker. Scolari put Di Santo as a substitute of Kalou in the 77th minute. Just after that, the Chelsea captain scored the victorious goal for the Blues after getting a brilliant pass from Lampard.

As the game was nearing its end, Menez and Tonetto were brought as the substitutes of Taddei and Riise by Spalletti in the 81st and 82nd minute, respectively. But they failed to score a single for Roma. In the 85th minute, Christian Panucci was booked with yellow card. Philippe Mexès, another center back of Roma made a shot, but missed the target. Petr Čech, the Chelsea goalie was at his best throughout the match. After three matches, Chelsea has scored seven points, while Roma has three points only.

2008/2009 Champions League Draw

2008-07-04T16:02:00.000-07:00

According to the UEFA, Fenerbahce, which was a quarterfinalist in the Champions League last season, was drawn against MTK Budapest on Tuesday for the 2008-09 Champions League.

The draw for the first two qualifying rounds was held, and Fenerbahce was among 14 teams given byes into the second round of qualifying on July 29-30 and Aug. 5-6. UEFA Cup finalists Glasgow Rangers is one of the other teams given a bye.

AS we know, the Champions League qualifying stages begin with the first round on July 15-16 and July 22-23. The 14 winners advance to the second round to fill out the 28- team stage.

The second qualifying round winners will advance to the third qualifying round, where they will be joined by another 18 teams, with the draw on Aug. 1. The 32 clubs involved will then compete in 16 fixtures for the right to follow the 16 automatic qualifiers into the group stage.

This season's final will be played at Rome's Stadio Olimpico on May 27, 2009.

Following are the first and second round qualifying draws:

First qualifying round draw:

Linfield (Northern Ireland) vs. Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia) Valetta (Malta) vs. Artmedia Petrzalka (Slovakia) Dinamo Tbilisi (Georgia) vs. NSI Runavik (Faroe Islands) 4 Santa Coloma (Andorra) vs. Kaunus (Lithuania) Murata (San Marino) vs. IFK Goteborg (Sweden) Llanelli (Wales) vs. Ventspils (Latvia) Anorthosis Famugusta (Cyprus) vs. Pyunik (Armenia) FK Inter Baki (Azerbaijan) vs. Rabotnicki (Macedonia) Tampere United (Finland) vs. Buducnost Podgorica (Montenegro) F91 Dudelange (Luxemborg) vs. Domzale (Slovenia) Dinamo Tirana (Albania) vs. FK Modrica (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Aktobe (Kasakhstan) vs. Sheriff (Moldova) Drogheda United (Ireland) vs. Levadia Tallinn (Estonia) FC BATE Borisov (Belarus) vs. Valur (Iceland)

Second qualifying round draw:

Rangers (Scotland) vs. FC Santa Coloma-FBK Kaunus winner SK Brann (Norway) vs. Llanelli-Ventspils winner FK Inter Baki-Rabotnicki winner vs. Partizan (Serbia) Tampere United-Buducnost Podgorica winner vs. Valetta-Artmedia Petrzalka winner Anorthosis Famugusta-Pyunik winner vs. Rapid Vienna (Austria) F91 Dudelange-Domzale winner vs. Linfield-Dinamo Zagreb winner Panathinaikos (Greece) vs. Dinamo Tbilisi-NSI Runavik winner Murata-IFK Goteborg winner vs. Basel (Switzerland) Aktobe-Sheriff winner vs. Sparta Prague (Czech Republic) Drogheda United-Levadia Tallinn vs. FC Dinamo Kyiv (Ukraine) RSC Anderlecht (BEL) vs. FC BATE Borisov-Valur winner Beitar Jerusalem FC (Israel) vs. Wisla Krakow (Poland) Fenerbahce (TUR) vs. Budapest (Hungary) Aalborg (Denmark) vs. Dinamo Tirana-FK Modrica winner

Harry Kewell moves to Turkey

2008-07-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

It's far removed from the glamour and millions of dollars you normally associate with the best football competitions in the world such as the English Premiership, Spain's Liga and Italy's Serie A.

In keeping with his profile in football, australian star Harry Kewell was linked with a move to any number of clubs in those competitions. As recently as last week he was reportedly on the verge of signing with Italian club AS Roma.

However Turkey is going to be Kewell's new home after he ended the protracted guessing game over his future by signing a three-year deal with Turkish champion FC Galatasaray.

Indeed, Kewell, who was released by Liverpool at the end of the recently completed English season, made one of the biggest decisions of his career by steering in a direction that has served a number of Australian internationals well over the years.

They include Josip Skoko (Genclerbirligi SK, 2003-05), Nick Carle (Genclerbirligi OFTAS 2007-08), Michael Petkovic (Trabzonspor, 2002-05 and Sivasspor, 2005-08) and Mile Sterjovski (Genclerbirligi OFTAS, 2007). Recently capped Socceroos forward Bruce Djite has signed with Genclerbirligi SK.

Despite that, none of those clubs can compare in terms of prestige to Galatasaray, which is regarded as a giant of Turkish football.

Along with Fenerbache, the Lions, as they are known, have won the Turkcell Super League a record 17 times, but it is a club which fancies mixing it with the super powers of Europe.

While the Turkish competition does not have automatic entry to the Champions League -- the Turkish champion enters in the third qualifying round and the runner-up in the second round -- Galatasaray has featured regularly in both the Champions League and UEFA Cup.

The club's biggest success came when it beat Arsenal in a penalty shoot-out in the UEFA Cup final in 1999-2000, becoming the first Turkish club to win a major European title. That year it also beat Real Madrid in the Super Cup.

It's important to mention that Galatasaray has failed just once in the past 10 years to make it to Europe and this is obviously one of the main reasons Kewell has joined the club. It will be interesting to see how Kewell, who values his privacy, copes with the different lifestyle in Istanbul, Turkey's largest city and the most populated in Europe and the third most populated in the world.

Indeed, he has spent all his football life in England, having gone to Leeds as a 15-year-old in 1995 and spending eight years there before joining Liverpool in a much heralded move in 2003.

But Liverpool FC never saw the best of the attacking midfielder because of a series of injuries.

Kewell, 29, was hammered by sections of the English media which claimed he failed to deliver for Liverpool and the money the club had spent on him had virtually gone down the drain.

As we know, Liverpool FC made a token gesture to keep him at the end of the season, but it was never going to be enough and he left the club on a free transfer.

Celebrations at FC Porto: The club will not be banned for the next Champions League Season

2008-06-22T00:54:00.000-07:00

Portuguese club FC Porto are set to play in next season's European Champions League, Portuguese news agency Lusa reported on Monday, despite an initial UEFA decision to bar them for being found guilty in a match-fixing scandal.

European football's ruling body UEFA overturned their own decision to ban the 2004 continental champions from next season's Champions League on Friday just because of a procedural error but shelved the decision on whether they could play in the 2008/09 season.

In fact, Porto won this season's Portuguese league easily to automatically qualify for the group stages.

Lusa, quoting an unnamed UEFA official, added that the European body would only re-examine the case if the club was sanctioned by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF).

The national federation, however, are not set to look into the case, involving the attempted corruption of referees, before the start of the 2008/09 edition of club football's richest and most prestigious competition, UEFA claimed.

The UEFA official, quoted by Lusa, said: "In the case that the matter is not looked into by the Portuguese federation before the start of the Champions League (2008/09 competition), it will not be studied by UEFA's disciplinary commission." This effectively means Porto would be free to compete.

But the press office of the Portuguese federation said later on Monday they had not communicated to UEFA any particular time scale for the re-examining of the affair.

The FPF, which received a fax of UEFA's decision on Monday, overturning an initial ruling to exclude Porto from next season's Champions League, said it was UEFA themselves who came to these conclusions (that the case would not be re-examined in Portugal till the start of next season's competition).

UEFA wrote, according to the FPF, that because of "the complexity of the matter, it would be difficult for (Portuguese) judicial sporting governing body to take any decision before the start of the competition." The draw takes place on August 1.

The internet site of sporting daily A Bola quoted William Gaillard, advisor to UEFA president Michel Platini, saying a possible exclusion of Porto from the competition could happen no earlier than the 2009/2010 season.

UEFA barred Porto from next season's competition on May 9 after the disciplinary commission of the Portuguese league found them guilty and fined the club 150,000 euros, docked them six points and suspended the club's president Jorge Pinto da Costa for two years for their part in events dating back to 2004.

Porto were assured of winning this year's league title by 14 points, even with the six-point penalty, and the club decided not to appeal the league's sanction.

AS we know, Porto's exclusion would have meant third-placed Vitoria Guimaraes qualified directly for the group stages and Benfica had a berth in the third qualifying round.

Despite that, UEFA decided to overturn their decision to ban Porto and to refer the matter back to the Portuguese sporting authorities for re-examination because of an initial procedural error.

It's important to mention that UEFA believed Vitoria Guimaraes and Benfica, who finished third and fourth in the league, should, along with Porto, have also come before the Portuguese authorities.

Champions League Final in Moscow will be like a War, but Capello takes caution measures

2008-05-18T22:42:00.000-07:00

The five-star hotel in Hertfordshire used by the England National Team in the build-up to internationals, could be the custodians of some prized possessions by the end of the week. Along with the mobile phones, flip-flops and shorts banned by italian coach Fabio Capello, the footballers of Chelsea FC and Manchester United have agreed to leave their Champions League winner’s medals at home for fear of upsetting their teammates, with any transgressors to have their loot confiscated immediately. No mercy.

Talented winger Joe Cole is ready to go to war with United in Moscow on Wednesday, but has already brokered a peace treaty that will come into force when they report for international duty on Friday in preparation for the friendly internationals against the United States squad at Wembley on May 28 and Trinidad & Tobago in Port of Spain four days later. Having half-a-dozen or so England internationals playing in the Moscow Champions League final is a source of pride, but also causes certain problems.

“They know I love them, but Wednesday night will be a war,” Joe Cole assured. “But whoever wins wins, and it’s difficult. You can’t have banter about it because we meet up with England two days later. You have to be dignified in win and defeat.

“In fact, you just can’t go running round with a Champions League medal round your neck at The Grove, either. We’ve had a little word about it already. We’ve said we wouldn’t do that.”

Such taunting would be surely too much to bear for those on the losing team, particularly for those, such as Jow Cole, who are looking forward to playing in the most important match of their career. “It will be the biggest thrill of my life to play in a Champions League final and to hopefully go and win it will be cracking,” he expressed. “I can’t wait. The World Cup games have been the biggest of my life so far. I spent a lot of time growing up watching World Cups and that was the reason I wanted to be a pro.

“However, the Champions League has taken on a life of its own, everything from the special music before you go out, it’s the pinnacle. In fact, it’s next to a World Cup final.

“For the young lads to climb the top of the mountain is a huge achievement and something that takes the breath away. It doesn’t matter if it’s Man United or whoever. This wasn’t on the radar when I was growing up, but the more successful you are, the more greedy you get and the more you want. I really want this.”

Talented Cole’s hunger is not in doubt. It is shown by the tireless energy that is the hallmark of his game, though his ability to make an impact at the highest level has been questioned. It says much about his consistency that the 26-year-old has been Chelsea’s busiest footballer this season, with 54 appearances, a far cry from his role as a perennial substitute when he first joined the team.

It's true that Joe Cole has benefited from Avram Grant’s more relaxed style of leadership, having tired of what some have perceived as José Mourinho’s bullying tactics, but his improvement has taken place gradually over the past five years and it is shown by the calibre of midfield players to leave the squad during that time. “Looking at players who have come in, the wingers like Gérémi, Arjen Robben, Damien Duff and Jesper Gronkjaer, they were all ahead of me at times, but I’ve carried on,” Cole expressed. “That’s because I’ve been out there and it’s like playing with my mates. It’s fantastic. I’ve always believed in myself, I’ve always been ready for the fight, but if my career finished at Chelsea tomorrow, I wouldn’t just want people to remember me for winning trophies. I’m always there for the fight and will give my all.”

For all his professionalism, Joe Cole retains the youthful enthusiasm of the ten-year-old who rushed back from a cup final of his own to watch italian powerhouse AC Milan humiliate Barcelona in the Champions League final 14 years ago. His habit of saying that he “just wants to play football” may grate during interviews, but it captures his essence and explains his popularity around the country, even with opposing supporters.

“I used to play in the AC Milan shirt for my team when I was a kid,” Cole recalls. “The year that Milan beat Barcelona 4-0, we played our cup final that same night about 6pm. We won that final and went back with our families and watched the European Cup final.

“I totally supported Milan. I was only 12 nad didn’t know too much about Milan, I didn’t even know where Milan was. But they had the same kit as us so I supported them. They had great players, including french leader Marcel Desailly, and to end up playing with him was amazing.”

It's important to say that Cole will have further childhood memories when he comes up against Michael Carrick, also a product of the West Ham United youth academy, at the Luzhniki Stadium on Wednesday, a far cry from the days when they were relegated together at West Ham.

“He’s done fantastically this season and, apart from Cristiano Ronaldo, he’s been their player of the year,” Cole expressed. “I speak to a lot of people up there and he probably doesn’t get the credit he deserves. He’s a great footballer. But, again, Wednesday night is Wednesday night.

“Yes, if you ask both sets of players, they’d take a scrappy 1-0, but I hope for the punters that it’s a great match, free-flowing football and a good advert for the game.

“I have to say that I get emotional before big games – you know how much it means to your family and to everyone around the club, but mainly for my family, mum and dad, brother and sister and girlfriend”, he concluded, completely sure about their triumph.

Moscow Final: Ballack to face the game of his life

2008-05-18T22:34:00.000-07:00

Talented German midfielder Michael Ballack believes Wednesday night's Champions League final with the Chelsea jersey on is a "golden opportunity" to make up for his past failures.

Indeed, the talented player was a losing European Cup finalist in 2002 when Real Madrid beat his Bayern Leverkusen team.

"You don't go into these games to lose. I know what that feels like and I will give everything to get the victory," he said ahead of the final against Manchester United.

"We are a really strong squad and we've shown that constantly during the season."

In 2002, as well as losing in the Champions League final, Leverkusen conceded the Bundesliga title to the powerfull Bayern Munich and were beaten in the German Cup final.

And just a month later, the midfielder missed the World Cup final, which Germany lost to Brazil, because of suspension.

We also must mention that Chelsea have already lost one final this season, the League Cup against Tottenham, while they were pipped to the Premier League title by Manchester United on the final day of the campaign.

"Yes, I was at Leverkusen and we were five points ahead in the league with three games to play and had reached the Champions League final," expressed the former Bayern Munich captain.

"But we managed to still come second in the German Bundesliga and then we lost the Champions League to Real Madrid.

"We lost the German Cup final that year, too, and then Germany lost in the World Cup final against Ronaldo's Brazil, so this is a golden opportunity to put it right."

Michael Ballack has developed into an instrumental player for manager Avram Grant after a lengthy period on the sidelines earlier in the season with a painful ankle injury.

But He netted both goals in Chelsea's 2-1 league win over United last month and the player himself says he feels revitalised: "I am totally happy with the way things have gone this season, especially after my difficult injury," Ballack said.

"When I returned to fitness I got back in the team very quickly because we had some injuries in the squad. That gave me my golden opportunity to make an impact straight away.

"I already said before the Champions League semi-final against Liverpool that I think we still look good and fresh as a football team. We coped with playing 120 minutes in that game and scored two goals in extra-time.

"That's why I think it shows that we have a very good level of physical strength in this team. The final of the Champions League is one match so it is all in our hands". And this time, he will not miss it.

Drogba knew Chelsea was going to be in the final game

2008-05-01T23:37:00.000-07:00

Didier Drogba's two goals led the London side to their first ever Champions League final after the 3-2 win over FC Liverpool, setting up a mouthwatering showdown with Manchester, who Drogba described as the best team in England.

The African star admitted: "Right from the beginning of the season the Champions League was our target. We had some problems this season. It was a difficult time for the club. But the most important thing was to stand up and keep working as we did. The objective didn't change and now we are in the final.

"I know that Manchester United are a fantastic team and are the best in England, but we aren't bad either."

It's important to mention that the first ever all-English final between Mancheser United and Chelsea will take place in Moscow on May 21, 2008

English glory: Chelsea and Manchester United reached the Champions League FInal to be played in Moscow

2008-05-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

Football fans heading to Moscow for the Champions League final will see a contest of north against south and red against blue after Chelsea beat Liverpool in the tournament's second semi-final.

Indeed, Chelsea got an epic result and reached the UEFA Champions League final for the first time, as they defeated Liverpool 3 - 2, with a double from Didier Drogba.

The London side will now play Manchester United in the Russian capital's Luzhniki stadium on 21 May.

The blues eventually beat Liverpool 4-3 on aggregate in a thrilling match that had to go to extra time before a winner was decided.

The Blues' final against powerfull Manchester United will mean that the two sides are going head to head at home and abroad at the end of the season, as they are on equal points in the Premier League with just two games left.

Sir Alex Ferguson's team defeated FC Barcelona 1 - 0 with a superb goal by Paul Scholes. The game was really equilibrated and many newspapers in Spain assure that Barza deserved to reach the final.

Now, fans travelling to Moscow can catch flights to one of the city's main airports, the largest of which are Domodedovo and Sheremetyevo.

Connections are provided by British Airways, KD Avia, Scandinavian Airlines and other carriers.

Riise's pain after Champions League own goal

2008-04-24T23:35:00.000-07:00

After the unforgettable mistake, Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has admitted his misery at the own goal which threatens to derail his side's Champions League challenge.

In fact, Riise is still coming to terms with the impact of his blunder after he headed into his own net in the last minute of stoppage time to gift Chelsea a 1-1 draw in the semi-final first leg at Anfield.

The Red team face a mammoth task to reach the final now but Riise is determined to help the Reds bounce back at Stamford Bridge next Wednesday.

"What can I say? I'm ashamed and devastated. Sometimes you experience these kind of things and for defenders it happens from time to time. Now it has happened to me," he expressed.

"In fact, I know how strong I am mentally, and what really matters is how you recover. I've experienced tougher things and I know I will learn from this.

"I'm very disappointed, but I won't go around and hang my head. I have to use this as something positive and learn from it."

The Norway footballer, who also scored an own goal against Luton in the FA Cup this season, was so down he didn't even speak to his brother in the aftermath of Tuesday's game.

Indeed, Bjorn Helge Riise, who plays for Lillestrom, let us know: "I tried getting in contact with John Arne after the encounter.

"Eventually he sent me back a sms saying, 'I don't want to speak. I'm so disappointed. Give me a call back in a couple of days and we'll speak then'."

We must consider that Riise's future at Anfield was already far from certain before his gaffe and the defender admitted his hopes of earning an extension to his current contract, which runs out next year, were hardly improved on Tuesday.

Despite that, Riise is likely to start in the return against Chelsea after Fabio Aurelio was ruled out and Benitez expressed: "I have talked with John and told him not to keep thinking about the own goal all of the time. He must come back and be ready.

"I know he is really down, but the only way to change the situation is to score in the right net at Stamford Bridge. He knows that Fabio is injured, so he knows he will get his chances again. He has played so well for this club, so for that to happen in the last seconds is the worst thing possible."

"Of course we have tried to analyse what happened. Mascherano could have stopped the cross, but when you are left-footed like John, the problem was whether he used his right foot to clear. That was the real point. I prefer to think like this: if Riise scores the winning goal that will be perfect for us."

Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty shot in Manchester United goalless draw with Barcelona

2008-04-24T23:29:00.001-07:00

The favorite Manchester United blunted a inefficient Barcelona's attack to earn a 0-0 away draw in the opening encounter of their two-match Champions League semifinal.

Barcelona FC was last night held to a scoreless draw at the Camp Nou stadium for the first time in this season's tournament as the English champion frustrated an opponent that had almost two-thirds of the possession and three times as many direct shots.

"Although they had a lot of play on the edge of our box, they didn't have many chances," United manager sir Alex Ferguson expressed. "Going back to Old Trafford for the second leg nil-nil gives us a marvelous opportunity."

In fact, Manchester United will advance to the May 21 final in Moscow against Chelsea or Liverpool with a victory in next week's return match in Manchester, where it's on an 11-game winning streak in Europe's elite club tournament.

Alex Ferguson's side failed to seize the initiative in the third minute when Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty kick, awarded when the ball struck Gabriel Milito's arm in the area.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who's scored a tournament- leading 7 goals this season, side-footed wide from the spot in front of about 95,000 spectators at the stadium where United won its second European Cup title in 1999.

"The penalty was a big moment," blaugrana boss Frank Rijkaard admitted. "It's still open. Scoring one goal over there could be very important."

As we saw, Samuel Eto'o had several shots and Gianluca Zambrotta, Xavi Hernandez and Thierry Henry also tested Man. United goalie Edwin van der Sar.

Cristiano Ronaldo was United's main threat on the counterattack as Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez struggled to break out of their own half.

"I don't think we were fast enough, direct enough and we lost the ball just too much," Ferguson analized and concluded. "We usually play better but we had to defend more. We'll definitely attack more in the second leg."

Arsenal eliminate Milan as Fabregas proves to be a world class player

2008-03-05T02:08:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly, current champion AC Milan was eliminated from the European Champions League, losing 2-0 at home last night to English Arsenal.

Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas beat goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac with a long bouncing shot from outside the penalty area in the 84th minute and Emmanuel Adebayor scored from close range in injury time.

"It's really good for such a young team to beat a team like Milan with so much quality," Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger admitted. "It will be positive for the future and the rest of our season."

Indeed, the Gunners advanced to the quarterfinals on 2-0 aggregate in the home-and-home series and became the first English club to beat the popular team AC Milan at San Siro stadium.

"There are no regrets," the "rossonero" Coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted. "There are regrets when you could have done more, but they didn't allow us to. Both teams did their best and we have to accept the loss and move on." he concluded.

Despite Messi's injury, FC Barcelona beat Celtic to advance in the Champions League

2008-03-05T02:03:00.000-08:00

Midfielder Xavi Hernandez flicked in a cross from the left by Ronaldinho Gaucho in the fourth minute to give Barcelona FC a 1-0 triumph over Scotland's powerhouse Celtic as the Spanish club advanced 4-2 overall.

However, the young talent Lionel Messi, the competition's leading scorer with six goals, pulled up as he made a run. He left the field in tears in the 35th minute of the second-round, second-leg match at Camp Nou.

This serious injury was similar to the one which sidelined Messi for six weeks in December and January, club officials admitted.

"I feel sad and I really feel for him and for the team, above all for Leo (Messi), who is very upset," Barcelona president Joan Laporta stated afterwards.

It's important to consider that the Argentine international, who scored twice in Barcelona's 3-2 win in the first leg, had been recalled to the starting lineup to join with Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o, with Thierry Henry left on the bench.

In the end, the blaugrana team advanced to the quarterfinals on 4-2 aggregate.

Exciting encounters for the next stage after Champions League draw

2007-12-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

The expected draw for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League concluded with very interesting encounters. Six European giants will battle in three key games.

Current champions AC Milan from Italy will play against English premier league leaders Arsenal. Last season's finalists Liverpool will test Italian Series A side Inter-Milan. And Spanish leaders Real Madrid will receive challenges from another Italian team AS Roma.

In other clashes, Manchester United will face Olympique Lyon, Barcelona will take on Celtic. Schalke will combat Portuguese Porto, Olympiakos will fight against powerful Chelsea. And Sevilla will do battle with Fenerbahce from Turkey.

Eto'o returns

2007-12-12T23:53:00.000-08:00

Barcelona rounded off the Champions League group stage with a comfortable 3 -1 win over German team Stuttgart in Camp Nou, as Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o scored his first goal of the season.

Barça's coach Frank Rijkaard was watching from the stands as he was suspended and he will not have been happy with the start his team made as Antonio da Silva netted after just three minutes for the visitors.

And just as they had to against Deportivo at the weekend, Barça had to battle back and they did so as mexican Giovani Dos Santos levelled in the first half, before Eto'o and Ronaldinho scored after the break.

It's important to mention that Xavi was set to be rested, but after Deco was unfit to play the Barça midfielder was named in the starting line-up alongside Eidur Gudjohnsen with Andrés Iniesta on the bench.

Rookie star Bojan Krkic was also expected to start, but Ronaldinho was given more time to rediscover his level up front with Giovani and Eto'o, while Albert Jorquera replaced Víctor Valdés in goal.

Despite those changes, Barcelona will not have been expecting to start like they did as they were hit with a sucker punch before having time to settle.

Gaby Milito tripped Ewerthon on the edge of the are in the third minute and Da Silva lifted a superb free-kick over the wall the clipped the underside of the crossbar and flew into the net.

Moments later Samuel Eto'o had the chance to draw Barça level when he received a weak pass in front of goal, but his first touch allowed the keeper time to approach and block his shot.

What's more, Ronaldinho Gaucho and Rafael Márquez then went close before Gudjohnsen first supplied Xavi, whose shot was kept out by Raphael Schäfer and the Icelandic international then clipped the rebound to Giovani, whose drive was tipped wide for a corner.

And with nine minutes remaining the pressure from Barça finally told as Ronaldinho won possession off Boka in the left corner and his cross was met by Giovani in front of goal.

The Mexican revelation wheeled away to celebrate and while replays were inconclusive, Schäfer was adamant that the ball had clipped the scorer's arm.

After 12 minutes of the second part, Barcelona took the lead for the first time when Xavi set off from the halfway line before feeding Eto'o and the Cameroonian took one touch before rifling his shot into the far corner of the net.

The frontman's delight was obvious and he raced to the bench to hug the coach that had helped him throughout his recuperation from his long-term knee injury.

Veteran Yildiray Bastürk then created space for himself, but his shot did not match the run as the ball flew wide and with Barcelona's next meaningful attack they wrapped up the points.

Iniesta had been on five minutes when he laid the ball down the left for Sylvinho and the Brazilian slid a low cross into the area where Ronaldinho Gaucho met it on the run and steered in number three from six yards out.

And shortly before Ewerthon had seen his fizzing shot from 25 yards cannon back off Jorquera's crossbar.

Liverpool had a fest at Marsella

2007-12-12T23:47:00.000-08:00

Football is ironic, just like life. Some months ago, when Liverpool was at a bad moment, it was shocked by Marseille's cheek in sneaking an historic 1-0 triumph at Anfield. Tuesday was pay-back, big time. Wearing black instead of its familiar red, running hot in the chilly Mistral wind, Liverpool crushed Marseille, 4-0, in the French team's own pitch.

And it might have been twice that score had Gerrard, Torres and company not had it in mind that the weekend brings another definitive encounter, at home to Manchester United.

"I must admit that it was almost the perfect night," said Rafael Benítez, Liverpool's coach. "Everybody knows Gerrard and Torres are good, but tonight everyone showed character and commitment. As I say, almost perfect because always you can improve something."

In fact, the coach didn't seem surprised, he didn't seem concerned that the weekend brings a rare visit to Anfield of his American bosses, who are supposedly gunning for a showdown after the boss had insinuated that they were absentee landlords who have failed to grasp the need to buy when Europe's transfer window opens in midseason.

"I'm just not thinking about money to buy fresh footballers", Benítez answered his questioners in Marseille. "I'm thinking, job done here, now I'm looking to play Manchester United. Nothing else."

We can say thtLiverpool's resurgence in Europe this season has been as remarkable as the great escape in Istanbul in 2005 when, three goals down at halftime in the final against AC Milan, the Reds recovered to draw 3-3 and win the Champions League trophy on a penalty shootout.

Captain Steven Gerrard had led that comeback, as he led Liverpool's turnaround this season. After three games against Besiktas, Porto and Marseille, Liverpool floundered with but a single point and stared eviction from the tournament in the face.

The next three, against the same opponents, yielded 16 goals to Liverpool, just one in reprisal, and in the nick of time qualification for the knockout phase.

It's important to mention that four other clubs progressed to the last 16 of the Champions League on Tuesday. Real Madrid and Porto did so easily; Schalke squeezed out Rosenborg to become the only German club still standing in the tournament; and Olympiakos qualified for the first time in nine years.

"In fact, the most rewarding feeling is that our fans are on the streets celebrating our qualification," Panagiotis Lemonis, the Olympiakos coach, said after his team's comprehensive 3-0 home victory over Werder Bremen. "This is one of the most important nights in the history of Olympiakos, not because of the result, but because of the way my players went for the triumph when a draw was enough."

AS Roma to miss Totti in their next Champions League match

2007-11-23T23:01:00.000-08:00

Roma star Francesco Totti is a major doubt for his team's visit to FC Dynamo Kyiv next Tuesday after suffering a recurrence of the foot problem that has sidelined him for the last month.

Indeed, Totti lasted just 15 minutes of his return to first-team training yesterday before taking a knock on the same foot he had injured in the 2-1 triumph over Sporting Clube de Portugal on 23 October. Although x-rays after the initial injury showed no fractures in his right foot, the player was in too much pain to train today and will definitely stay out of Saturday's Serie A game at Genoa.

"This morning Francesco arrived with the intention of training but he felt pain as soon as he put on his boot, so did not train at all and will not play against Genoa," Roma coach Luciano Spalletti admitted. "I don't know when he will be able to play." It appears highly unlikely that Totti, 31, will be available for the Group F game in Kiev, where Roma can secure their place in the knockout rounds.

What's more, midfielders Taddei and Alberto Aquilani are also absent from the squad despite reports earlier in the week that they were ready to return following respective calf and thigh injuries. "We will not take any risks" Spalletti stated.

Yannick Djaló to miss match against Manchester United

2007-11-23T22:58:00.000-08:00

Bad news for Sporting Clube of Portugal. Their main striker Yannick Djaló is unlikely to feature against Manchester United FC in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday after pulling a muscle in his right thigh in a Portugal Under-21 clash.

According to the doctors, the 21-year-old, who has appeared in all four of Sporting's Group F matches so far, missed Portugal's 1-1 draw with England on Tuesday in UEFA European Championship qualifying and has not recovered in time for Saturday's Liga game at Leixões SC. "He's undergoing treatment and conditioning training," the club announced. "We expect him to resume training next week."

Furthermore, Serbia goalkeeper Vladimir Stojković will also miss the trip to Leixões and is not expected to figure at Old Trafford. On a more positive note, influential midfielder Leandro Romagnoli should overcome a back injury to play this week. Coach Paulo Bento has called up 17-year-old Paraguayan frontman Luís Paez for the first time as cover. Sporting are third in Group F, three points behind second-placed AS Roma in the race for the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

Schalke 04's Kuranyi to miss clash against Chelsea FC

2007-11-05T00:30:00.000-08:00

FC Schalke 04 most important frontman, Kevin Kuranyi, might miss Tuesday's UEFA Champions League visit of Chelsea FC due a thigh strain. In the other side, the British team will travel without Paulo Ferreira after the full-back was ruled out for six weeks with an ankle injury.

Indeed, Kuranyi took a knock during Friday night’s 1-0 defeat at FC Energie Cottbus and was replaced after 65 minutes. "He pulled the muscle in his thigh. It might even be torn," said Schalke boss Mirko Slomka. Ferreira, meanwhile, strained ankle ligaments during a League Cup victory on Wednesday and did not feature in today's 2-0 victory at Wigan Athletic FC. Manager Avram Grant expressed: "I'm sure Paulo Ferreira is not available and will be out for five to six weeks. We are short; however, we have a big squad and we have good footballers to replace him."

Dynamo Kyiv coach to miss game against Manchester Utd. due to heart problems

2007-11-05T00:28:00.000-08:00

According to official medical reports, FC Dynamo Kyiv coach, József Szabó, is suffering from heart problems. The team will be led by assistant coach Oleh Luzhny for their UEFA Champions League trip to Manchester United FC on Wednesday.

As we know, Szabó only began his fourth spell as Dynamo coach on 21 September after Anatoliy Demyanenko stepped down in the wake of the Matchday 1 defeat by AS Roma. Since then the Ukrainian champions have also lost to Sporting Clube de Portugal and Manchester United in Group F. DEspite that, Szabó will not lead his team at Old Trafford and has been sent on leave.

Dynamo Kyiv officially said: "Szabó is temporarily unable to work due to ischemic heart disease, so his assistant Luzhny will prepare the team for the forthcoming UEFA Champions League and Ukrainian league games." A 39-year-old former Ukrainian international, Luzhny is no stranger to England, having played for Arsenal FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC in a long career which also brought one Soviet and seven Ukrainian titles with Dynamo. It's also important to remember that he captained Ukraine a record 39 times and coached Latvia's FK Venta in 2005 before joining Dynamo's staff just one year later.

Daniele De Rossi wants the Champions League crown for Roma

2007-09-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

Italian Roma footballer Daniele De Rossi admits that, while the scudetto is in his sights, it's Europe that holds the most allure for the young midfielder...

Indeed, Daniele De Rossi is determined to lift silverware with Roma this season, and is particularly enamoured with the prospect of a Champions League win.

He told the press, "Of course, my dream has always been to win both the Scudetto and the UEFA Champions League as a Roma player.

"Yes, I've love to lift the league trophy, but the Champions League is just that - the Champions League - and Roma has never in its history won that competition. I'd say that this would be a more historical event for us to complete."

The 24 year old, who earlier this summer announced his intention to stay at Roma for his entire career, only made his first pro appearance for the team after they won the Scudetto in 2001, yet remains focused on winning the Champions League first.

However, the World Cup winner knows that Roma, should they carry on their great start to the campaign, can do great things domestically, too.

"This year, Inter won't end up 17 or 20 points ahead of us," he said.

"I think that we play more beautiful football than them as a team; they prefer to focus on their individuals.

Amongst Roma's Champions League opponents this year is Manchester United, the side that crushed his club 7-1 at Old Trafford last season.

"Let's not speak of revenge," De Rossi claims. "But we want to prove ourselves at Old Trafford and not collapse like last time."

Ford offers Champions League tickets as part of their campaign

2007-09-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

Automobile manufacturer Ford, the only remaining founding partner of the UEFA Champions League, are offering football fans an unique opportunity to watch top quality European football.

Indeed, the company is launching a marketing campaign to encourage football fans to "Feel the Difference", a move to offer people the chance to be at the UEFA Champions League, Europe's premier club competition.

They will provide supporters with three sets of three hospitality tickets, including pre and post match buffet and bar, as well as a complimentary programme, to Liverpool FC vs. Olympique de Marseille, Celtic FC vs. AC Milan and Manchester United FC vs. AS Roma.

It's important to remember that Ford has sponsored and supported the UEFA Champions League since its inception in 1992. Through a number of initiatives, Ford want football fans everywhere to 'Feel the difference', providing a once in a lifetime chance to enjoy the most important club cup.

See you in Athens: Liverpool win the semifinal over Chelsea

2007-05-01T23:37:00.000-07:00

Anfield was the scenario for a really intense game. and Liverpool was the team that won the ticket to Athens. The Reds beat Chelsea in the penalty shootout, right after a 1-0 victory that tied the leg. Dirk Kuyt scored the crucial shot for Liverpool to clinch the 4-1 victory on penalties while Arjen Robben and Geremi failed in their bid for Mourinho's side.

In fact, the game began with much excitement. Referee González whistled up for nine fouls in the first 13 minutes -- Liverpool 5 Chelsea 4, but it was Liverpool who grabbed the first real chance in the game when Agger scored in the 22nd minute. There weren’t too many chances for the rest of the match. Powerful striker Peter Crouch's header in the 55th minute was saved by Chelsea goalkeeper Peter Cech and Dirk Kuyt's heading against the Chelsea crossbar in the 59th minute saved yet again by keeper Cech.

And Chelsea almost scored just before the break when Essien almost diverted a Drogba header in the 32 minute, but it was not to be. Neither squad could force the elusive goal in the normal time adding to the premium of the 30 minutes of overtime. It's fair to say that Liverpool came the closest, but it all eventually boiled down to the penalty shootout.

Dutch footballer Zenden scored the first, Robben missed for the blues but Alonso scored. Finally, Lampard was the sole success for Chelsea FC and Kuyt's final effort put Chelsea out the tournament while Liverpool head to the finals where they will meet either Italian powerhouse AC Milan or English favorites Manchester United on May 23 in Athens. The best part of the Champions League has just begun.

AC Milan fans can be important in the semifinal against Manchester United

2007-05-01T23:22:00.000-07:00

Italian hope. AC Milan players are convinced that the San Siro crowd can roar them to the Champions League final as they look to overturn a 3-2 defeat against Manchester United here tonight.

Indeed, ManU edged the first leg of a pulsating semi-final at Old Trafford, but Milan's two away goals, both scored by Brazilian talent Kaka, means a 1-0 win will be enough for the Italian team to reach the Athens final on May 23.

Milan's talented player midfielder Gennaro Gattuso, who has been passed fit to play after recovering from the foot injury he suffered in the first leg, is counting on the home support to be their 12th player.

"It's fantastic to know that our fans are always there for us and they always cheer us on," said the 29-year-old Italian World Cup winner.

"This time it's special though, as they have to give us an incredible hand. We will give our all, but they have to take us even further."

Also Dutch player Clarence Seedorf, Gattuso's midfield partner, believes the Milan crowd will not let them down: "The supporters are even more passionate than we are".

However, Milan captain Paolo Maldini is battling to be fit after aggravating the knee injury at Old Trafford which forced him to come off at half time.

The Italian boss Carlo Ancelotti has hinted he will drop striker Alberto Gilardino, anonymous in the first leg, in favour of veteran striker Filippo Inzaghi.

"in fact, Gilardino has only scored one goal in the Champions League and that highlights the difference between that competition and the league," Ancelotti admitted.

"I think there's more pressure on strikers to score in the Champions League, and Gilardino is not experienced enough yet to cope with that."

It's very important to notice that Manchester United come into the match on a real high after moving five points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premiership on Saturday with just three games to go, and having reached the English FA Cup final.

"Indeed, we are in a magnificent situation and we go to the San Siro with our morale sky high," said the popular Alex Ferguson after his side fought back from 2-0 down at Everton to win 4-2 on Saturday.

"We have to think of the team, and Paul Scholes has to make sure he doesn't get booked, that's without question," Ferguson explained. "The advice we gave him in the first leg was not to slide in and make tackles because that's where he gets all his bookings.

"In Europe, they just don't accept it, sliding in. So if he stays on his feet and tackles properly there will be no problem."

Furthermore, Alex Ferguson accepts his injury-ridden defence will struggle to deny Milan in their own stadium, but he has backed his own team to score at least once.

"I really don't agree with the view that it is vital we don't go over there and concede," he said. "I wouldn't say we are favourites, but I think we have given ourselves a great chance. A goal lead is a very good start in European football, and I think there will be good counter-attack possibilities in our squad".

We must remember that AC Milan are aiming to reach their 10th Champions League final and the Red Devils their third.

Valencia and Roma get good results in the Champions League

2007-04-05T16:42:00.000-07:00

We saw very exciting games in the first leg of the quarterfinals in Champions League. And many favorites started to make to choose their destiny, like Liverpool or Bayern Munich. In the other hand,Manchester United fell on the road to Roma, but picked up a valuable road goal. Meanwhile Chelsea FC could only manage a 1-1draw at Stamford Bridge with visiting Valencia from Spain.

AS Roma 2 - Manchester United FC 1

Roma took care of business at home on Wednesday night beating Manchester United 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Rodrigo Taddei scored just before the break and Mirko Vucinic nabbed the match winner for the Italians. The two Roma goals surrounded a 60th minute strike by Wayne Rooney that gave United a very precious away goal. The Red Devils return to Old Trafford for the return leg, but will be without the services of Paul Scholes, who was red carded in the first half of the game.

Chelsea FC 1 - Valencia FC 1

Mourinho's side is faced with the daunting task of traveling to Spain in need of a result following their draw with Valencia at Stamford Bridge. The Blues narrowly avoided a disastrous result as Didier Drogba scored in the second half to pull Chelsea level. David Silva scored for the visitors. Chelsea is still alive to win an unprecedented quadruple this season, but hopes are fading of achieving that duty. Wednesday's result will make their road that much tougher to tread.

Liverpool eliminate Barcelona and lead the English Revolution

2007-03-06T23:41:00.000-08:00

The super favorite Barcelona got a worthless 1-0 triumph at Anfield on Tuesday. Despite their effort, Liverpool qualified for the Champions League quarterfinals on away goals after aggregating it 2-2.

And in another interesting match, the 2004 winners Porto also bowed out after Chelsea made a successful comeback to win 2-1 at Stamfor Bridge for a 3-2 aggregate through.

In fact, the Blues' win made there an unprecedented four teams from the Premier League in the Champions League last eight.

Italian side AS Roma and Spanish powerhouse Valencia also advanced when a 2-0 win from the former team inflicted a first home defeat in 19 Champions League games on Olympique Lyon and the latter tied Inter Milan 0-0 after their first leg 2-2 draw.

It's important to say that Anfield has been the scene of some memorable European nights over the years and those there on Tuesday will remember Liverpool's latest adventure for many years - despite the match ending in defeat.

We can say that Liverpool went out looking to kill the tie from the start and played a first half of 10 shots on goal to the Catalan team's one.

Rijkaard team looked sluggish all night, personified in Ronaldinho who hit the post when through on goal after 53 minutes, before substitute Eidur Gudjohnsen scored the only goal in 75 minutes.

And the remaining four second-leg matches take place on Wednesday when Manchester United and Arsenal FC will be seeking to make it four through from one country for the first time in the Champions League History.

Eto'o is back to lift Barcelona's chances in the Champions League

2007-02-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

African star Samuel Eto'o has returned to full training for FC Barcelona ahead of this month's encounter with English club Liverpool in the Champions League.

Indeed, the Cameroon frontman missed the last four months after damaging knee ligaments against Werder Bremen.

As we know, Eto'o returned to training yesterday and is set to make his long-awaited return in the league game against Racing Santander on February 11th.

In fact, the popular player is having a lighter workload than his team-mates but club physios are delighted with his progress.

According to the doctors, he is expected to start on February 21st in the first leg of the knout stages against the Reds in the Nou Camp.

It's good to mention that Eto'o has bagged 60 goals in 89 games for the European champions since joining from Real Mallorca in 2004.

Actually, the Catalan team have continued their march towards a third straight title despite Eto'o's absence and lead second-placed Sevilla by four points.

Barcelona might also unleash striker Lionel Messi against Santander in a race against time to reach match fitness for the game with Liverpool.

The talented Argentine broke his metatarsal in November and returned to Spain today after working on his recovery in Argentina.

As we all know, Messi's compatriot Javier Saviola has taken his chance for the league champions with five goals last month including a hat-trick in the 3-2 triumph over Alaves.

Milan's Dida confessions

2007-01-02T22:51:00.000-08:00

Brazilian keeper Dida has high expectations for the next season. That's why he insists AC Milan are still pushing for a Champions League berth despite their poor Serie A campaign so far.

Indeed, the Italian team is currently 12th in the Italian top flight, having started the season with an eight-point deduction in the wake of the match-fixing scandal that rocked Serie A earlier this season.

Despite those grim facts, run of seven league games without defeat, including back-to-back wins prior to the winter break, has seen AC Milan move to within just six points of fourth-placed Catania.

Maybe that is the reason why Dida told Brazilian television network: "Obviously, we had an irregular start to the league, but we will improve our performance in 2007.

"I'm sure that our main objective this season is to qualify for the Champions League."

IT's also important to say that the goalkeeper, currently sidelined with a knee injury, also admitted he was keen to return to the national team despite announcing his international retirement following Brazil's failure to retain the World Cup in Germany.

"In fact, I am working to fulfil the objective of returning to the Brazilian team," he admitted.

Bayern Munich's Kahn will retire if his team win Champions League

2006-12-21T22:25:00.000-08:00

German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn admitted on Tuesday that he might retire from football if Bayern Munich won the Champions League.

"It is really likely for me to retire the game if we clinched the Champions League trophy this season," German media quoted Kahn as expressing.

In fact, the 37-year-old international, who was the second-choice keeper of the German team that won the bronze medal in the World Cup earlier this year, said he wants to quit on top before people call on him to retire.

What's more, coach Felix Magath told the club's website that he wants to give Kahn's long-term successor as competitive matches as possible.

"We all know that Rensing is Kahn's designated successor for us, so I believe he needs match practice when there's something at stake. I have complete faith in him," he stated.

And now it's fair to say that during his 12-year career with the Bavarians, Kahn won seven league titles and one Champions League trophy.

In the most important moment of his career, he led Germany to the final game of the World Cup 2002 before losing to Brazil. Though, he was named FIFA's best footballer of that Cup.

Great encounters to take place in the next stage

2006-12-21T22:20:00.000-08:00

Current champions Barcelona were pitted against England's Liverpool Football Club in a meeting of the Champions League winners of the past two season as the draw for the first knock-out stage of the competition threw up a series of attractive clashes.

The catalan team, who were among the second seeds in the draw in Nyon, Switzerland, will be pleased to be avoiding some of this season's top favourites, but still face a stern test in the 2005 kings and five-time European champions.

In fact, Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed: 'It will be a meeting between the last two champions, so it is going to be an great tie.

"I can say that I am happy with the draw. Liverpool are one of the sides I fancied meeting at this stage. They are powerful opponents who play very physical football and have players we know very well, like Luis Garcia and Xabi Alonso. But let's not forget, we are the squad to beat this season."

As we know, Liverpool club secretary Bryce Morrison said the clash with Barcelona could be the launchpad for another assault on Europe's top prize.

"They don't come much bigger than that. We are relishing these matches. And we hope we can go all the way once again, starting with this big one."

Furthermore, the draw brought together two familiar foes in record nine-time European champions Real Madrid and German Bayern Munich.

In fact, the two sides have met 10 times in the competition since 2000, with Real Madrid knocking Bayern out in the last 16 in the 2003/2004 season and in the quarter-finals on the way to the 2002 title.

It's important to consider that Bayern Munich did the same to Real in the 2001 semi-finals before beating Valencia in the final for their fourth and so far last title.

And Real Madrid sports director Pedja Mijatovic admitted: "We have had a bit of luck. I think we can be satisfied. Bayern have a strong, battling team but we have the opportunity of going further. Maybe on paper we are the favourites."

But Bayern manager Felix Magath described the meeting with Real as 'a cracking game' and quipped: "I said beforehand it would be Real - I'd arranged it with UEFA."

In another major game, British champions Chelsea - regarded as one of the favourites - come up against Portugal's Porto, pitting Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho against the club he led to the Champions League title in 2004.

As we know, the two clubs met in the 2004/2005 group stage when Chelsea won 3-1 at home and lost 2-1 in Portugal.

What's more, six-times champions AC Milan face Scottish side Celtic while cross-town rivals and Italian league leaders Inter Milan have an intriguing tie against Spanish side Valencia.

Let's mention that of England's remaining clubs in the last 16, last year's losing finalists Arsenal come up against Dutch title-holders and 1988 European champions PSV Eindhoven while English league leaders Manchester United meet French side Lille.

Also important: in the remaining tie, fancied French champions Lyon, regarded as one of the top contenders for this year's title, will have to overcome Roma.

The "Red devils" will be seeking to make good against a Lille team who helped put the Reds out in last season's group stage. United lost 1-0 Lille and were held to a goalless draw at home.

Red coach Sir Alex Ferguson told the club website: "We just had a bad experience last year but this is a different United squad.

Finally, we must keep in mind that the round of 16 matches are to be played over two legs on February 20/21 and March 6/7, 2007. The final game is scheduled for May 23 in Athens, Greece.

Liverpool failed in Istanbul

2006-12-06T09:58:00.000-08:00

The Champions League night saw Liverpool Football Club make an unsuccessful return to Istanbul as they lost 3-2 to Galatasaray despite two goals from veteran frontman Robbie Fowler.

Spanish coach Rafa Benitez opted to rest a number of first-team regulars, with the Reds already safely through to the knockout stages of the competition.

As we saw, the opening minutes of the clash saw little action in either goalmouth, with neither side having much to play for.

But the encounter burst into life after 22 minutes as Craig Bellamy found space down the left and his ball into the area was bundled home from close range by Fowler.

And within two minutes it was 1-1 as Xabi Alonso's poor pass was intercepted by Necati Ates, who raced clear to beat Jerzy Dudek with a low shot.

It's important to see that three minutes later Gala were 2-1 in front as a corner from the right was only half-cleared and Okan Buruk volleyed home superbly from 25 yards out with his right foot.

The home team almost got a third right on half-time as Dudek blocked Sabri's shot with his legs after some sloppy play in defence.

Furthermore, Gala went close again eight minutes into the second half as Ergun's free-kick in from the left was headed against the far post by Umit Karan, with Dudek well beaten.

And eleven minutes from time it was 3-1 to the home side as substitute Mehmet Guvan got clear on the right and his cutback into the area gave fellow replacement Sasa Ilic an easy finish.

That was game over for Liverpool, but they at least kept fighting until the final minute, when Jermaine Pennant found space on the right flank and his stand-up cross was headed home at the far post by Fowler.

Barcelona beat Bremen and advanced in Group A

2006-12-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

The defending Champions Laegue king, FC Barcelona, avoided becoming the first European champions to be knocked out at the group stage with a Group A win over Werder Bremen while Chelsea defeated Levski to assure the first place in the group.

In the city of Barcelona, Ronaldinho fired the home side into the lead on 13 minutes when he slid a free kick beneath a leaping Werder Bremen wall, the ball rolling past a helpess Tim Wiese in the German goal.

And just five minutes later, Eidur Gudjohnsen tucked home the second goal for Barcelona when he touched home a pass from the right by French striker Ludovic Giuly.

In fact, the German team improved in the second half, but Barcelona continued to be the best side with Wiese having to make several nice plays to keep the scoreline respectable.

In the other game of the group, Chelsea defeated Levski 2-0. The Bulgarian team's first foray into the Champions League ended pointless after they were beaten by a superior Chelsea side at Stamford Bridge.

Indeed, Ukrainian forward Andriy Shevchenko was able to put the Blues in front in the 27th minute after punching home a pass by Frank Lampard from inside the penalty area.

We must mention that Levski's defense held out well for much of the game although Chelsea were clearly the better of the two teams, and they managed to add a deserved second goal seven minutes from time when striker Shaun Wright-Phillips bagged the score.

Tiago: "Lyon can win the Champions League"

2006-12-01T00:31:00.000-08:00

Tiago is part of a very competitive French club: Lyon. And he has revealed his belief that his team can win the UEFA Champions League this season.

Indeed, Gerard Houllier’s side are once again leading the pack in Ligue 1 and can now divert some of their attention to European matters when the knockout stages come around.

"Honestly I am convinced that we can win the Champions League," said the Portuguese player.

"It's just that we qualified quickly for the knockout stage - that was very important and that showed our ability.

"We are still leading Ligue 1 and have really high hopes for the Champions League."

We must consider that the ambitious French side have performed well in the competition in recent seasons and are many experts tip as a ‘dark horse’ for the title.

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Sporting's Caneira will be out until January

2006-11-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Sporting most valuable defensive playe, Marco Caneira, will only be out until January with a leg injury suffered in the Champions League against Italian club Inter.

As we know, the 27-year-old player took a heavy blow to the right leg, which was initially thought to be a fractured tibia but has been confirmed as just heavy bruising.

Sporting surgeon Gomes Pereira told O Jogo: "In the game against Inter Caneira suffered a violent blow to the right tibia, which caused him to be substituted.

"I can say that the following examinations moved us away from the initial fear that he had fractured his leg, although we predict that he will need at least three weeks to recover."

In fact, with the upcoming winter break this means Caneira will not play professional football until early 2007.

It's important to mention that his replacement that day, Abel, was also injured later on although the slight tear to the left thigh muscle is not thought to be that bad.

Barcelona in the edge, Chelsea in the top

2006-11-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

It is a hard time for Rijkaard's team in the Champions League. FC Barcelona face their penultimate Group match knowing that they are on the verge of making an unwanted piece of history.

Indeed, if results go against them on Wednesday, Barcelona would become the first defending champions to fail to get through a group stage since the Champions League began.

It's important to know that Levski Sofia would need to beat Frank Rijkaard's men at home in Sofia, a result that looks unlikely considering Barcelona beat the Bulgarian squad 5-0 in the reverse fixture in September.

Coach Frank Rijkaard has opted to keep faith with the same 18-man squad that beat Mallorca 4-1 in La Liga at the weekend, although he still has several key men unavailable.

Rijkaard has only one fit striker in Eidur Gudjohnsen, with Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o, Argentina's Javier Saviola and Lionel Messi all injured, along with midfielder Edmilson and right back Juliano Belletti.

In fact, Levski have so far conceded 13 goals in losing their first four matches in the group, and coach Stanimir Stoilov has suffered another blow ahead of the match with the news that striker Emil Angelov will not play.

But it's a must to mention that first-choice goalkeeper Georgi Petkov has recovered from a finger injury and will replace 18-year-old Nikolay Mihaylov, who had a nightmare debut in the Champions League against Werder last month.

As we know, forwardr Valeri Domovchiyski is also available after recovering from a groin injury, and warmed up for the big clash by scoring in a 3-0 demolition of city rivals Lokomotiv on Saturday.

Werder Bremen face firts place Chelsea

Mourinho's Chelsea go in to their penultimate group match knowing that they need just a point to ensure qualification.

Indeed, Jose Mourinho has promised to pick his strongest available team for the tie, dismissing suggestions he might attempt to help sabotage rivals Barcelona's bid for qualification by gifting the points to second-placed Werder.

The Portuguese coach has left centre-back Ricardo Carvalho out of his squad for the match, after he was substituted at half-time during the Premiership win at the weekend.

We must know that Salomon Kalou also misses the trip to Germany with medial knee ligament damage.

German side Bremen have failed to win in their last five matches, and needed a late Miroslav Klose goal to rescue a point against Alemannia Aachen at the weekend.

It's also important to mention that Patrick Owomoyela (ankle injury) and Mohamed Zidan (groin operation) are definitely out of the match, while captain Frank Baumann, who is currently recovering from an achilles problem, will also miss out through suspension.

Full back Christian Schulz pulled out of training early on Monday complaining of soreness in his knee, but is still hopeful of recovering in time to take his place in the starting team.

Liverpool and PSV battle for the first place

2006-11-21T09:35:00.000-08:00

It's the most crucial match for Liverpool Football Club and PSV Eindhoven. These two teams will fight each other in the UEFA Champions League at Anfield on Wednesday to decide who finishes top of Group C, while Galatasaray and Bordeaux will meet in a similar situation regarding the UEFA Cup place.

The English team have won every European match at Anfield this season and dropped only two points at home in the Premiership. Coach Rafael Benitez is set to continue his attacking policy.

"I think that nobody can say Liverpool is a defensive squad. We play with two wingers and use a lot of attacking players," the Spaniard told the club's website.

"I told my footballers if we keep creating chances and playing well, things will change."

Liverpool's Spanish international winger Luis Garcia has shaken off a hamstring injury and looks set to start out wide, while long-term victims Mohamed Sissoko (shoulder) and Harry Kewell (Septic Arthritis) miss definitely miss the game.

It's important to say that Daniel Agger will retain his place in the centre of defence ahead of Sami Hyypia.

In the other side, PSV look set to rest striker Patrick Kluivert, loath to risk his knee problem when they are already qualified. Midfilder Mika Vayrynen will also be missing after picking up a knock in Finland's 1-0 win over Armenia last week, while another midfielder, youngster Ismail Aissati, is out too.

In fact, the two clubs are equal on ten points and so, having shared a 0-0 draw in Eindhoven, whoever wins Wednesday's game will be certain to top the group after the final group match on head-to-heads.

PSV thrashed Excelsior Rotterdam 4-0 at the weekend to remain top of the Eredivisie by three points, while Liverpool FC shared a goalless draw with Middlesbrough.

UEFA might take actions for violent game in Barcelona-Chelsea derby

2006-11-03T02:50:00.000-08:00

The latest derby between Barcelona and Chelsea finished 2-2. But that was not the last word: UEFA president Lennart Johansson claims that disciplinary action will follow Chelsea's tempestuous match against the Catalan team.

As we know, Italian referee Stefano Farina showed 10 yellow cards during the Champions League match in the Nou Camp - six to Chelsea players - and was confronted by furious Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard at the final whistle.

There was also continual pressuring of the referee, mainly by Barcelona players, while Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho had stoked up the contest before the match by claiming the Blaugrana team were a group of divers.

Johansson, in London to launch his campaign to be re-elected as UEFA president, announced: "I'm against this behaviour but I don't make the decisions, they are taken by the disciplinary bodies.

"I'm convinced that now things will happen as it was so obvious and the people we had in place who saw it will report it."

Chelsea can expect a fine for 'unsporting behaviour' - any team collecting more than five yellow cards in a game faces action - and Barcelona could also be in further trouble after their supporters hurled bottles as Blues players applauded the travelling fanatics at the end of the 2-2 game.

Vieira to miss Inter vs. Spartak

2006-10-30T14:44:00.000-08:00

Inter of Milan will travel to the Russian capital for Tuesday's Champions League Group B showdown with Spartak Moscow without Patrick Vieira.

In fact, the talented midfielder sustained an ankle injury during Saturday's 4-3 derby win over AC Milan.

We must mention that Vieira, who will be sidelined for two weeks, had strong words with Inter's assistant coach Sinisa Mihajlovic after the clash.

The French footballer's request to be substituted midway through the second half, 30 minutes after damaging his ankle during a contest with Milan's Gattuso, was turned down by Inter.

Manager Roberto Mancini opted instead to replace forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was also struggling with a minor knock.

"I am sorry that I couldn't replace Vieira," Mancini expressed. "I really thought he could finish the match. I needed him considering that Ibrahimovic couldn't make it.

"In the end, Vieira got upset with Sinisa. However, I want to thank him for what he did for the squad."

And while Vieira stays behind in Milan for treatment on the injury, Ibrahimovic will be available for Tuesday's encounter although Argentine Julio Cruz is likely to partner Hernan Crespo upfront.

"I have seen a lot of positives out of our win against Milan," said Mancini. "I am happy because the team has shown a lot of character.

"Now we are focused on our tricky game against Spartak."

The Nerazzurri welcome back Fabio Grosso, who missed their 2-1 home triumph against Spartak earlier this month through suspension, as they look for their first triumph on the road this current season.

It's important to notice that they trail six points behind group leaders Bayern Munich and are a single point behind Sporting Lisbon.

The Italians must brace themselves for a battle at the Luzhniki Stadium as Spartak, who lost at Inter two weeks ago, cannot afford a loss having only taken one point in three European games.

Should the Russian giants fail to take a positive result, and Sporting beat Bayern in the other group game, Spartak's hopes of progressing would vanish.

But a win on Tuesday would see them leapfrog their illustrious opponents and put them right back in contention.

Russian captain Yegor Titov has been unimpressed with the Italian champions this season and believes they have a genuine chance.

He told the Russian newspaper: "The current Inter team is not what it used to be in the past few years.

"I think there is no better time to play them and if we can't beat them this time we probably never will."

In fact, they will have to perform better than they did at the weekend though - on Saturday the Russian champions were held to a 1-1 draw by the Premier League's bottom team Shinnik Yaroslavl.

Chelsea want to beat Barcelona to assure the first place

2006-10-30T11:39:00.000-08:00

The Champions League is setting up for one of the most important derbies in the last years: Barcelona against Chelsea. New goalkeeper Henrique Hilario will keep his place in goal for Chelsea's clash with the Spanish team at the Nou Camp.

We must mention that Hilario has conceded only one goal in four games since replacing injured keeper Petr Cech and saved a penalty against Sheffield United on Saturday. It's also good to know that Carlo Cudicini is fit after a spell out with concussion but boss Jose Mourinho has promised to keep faith in Hilario in the Nou Camp.

Chelsea's coach Mourinho will make a late decision on strikers Didier Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko who both trained with the team today. Drogba came off at Bramall Lane with a foot injury, and Shevchenko missed the match with a thigh strain.

Sir Alex Ferguson wants another title for Manchester United

2006-10-29T12:03:00.000-08:00

When we talk about Sir Alex Ferguson, we must mention the word "success". He has won everything with Mancheste United. However, he wants to win at least one more Champions League for the Old Trafford team before he retires.

In fact, the old coach will have been manager of United for 20 years on November 6, and has already led the club to eight Premier League titles, five FA Cups, two League Cups and a European Cup Winners' Cup - as well as one Champions League triumph, against Bayern Munich in Barcelona in 1999.

Now at the age of 64, Ferguson admits: "It is a priority to do better in the European Cup and that will not change at this club because Europe is a motivation for us all the time.

"In my time at United, we should have done it better. In some years we have been unlucky, in others we have thrown it away and in others we were just not good enough.

"However, the bottom line is we should have had at least one more European Cup in my time at the club and hopefully we can do that before I ride off into the sunset."

We must remember that last season Manchester United failed to make it past the group stage, but three successive wins so far in the current campaign mean that just a point from Wednesday's trip to FC Copenhagen should be enough to earn a place in the knockout stage with two matches to spare.

So, Ferguson believes that spreading the goals around the team is the key to their improved performances and something that will help hem progress in Europe.

"We have great footballer we rely on in terms of goals, the most important being Louis Saha," said Ferguson. "I am sure Wayne [Rooney] will eventually go on to get us 15 and Cristiano Ronaldo is quite capable of reaching that figure too. But the real impact comes from the spread of goals in other areas.

"Obviously Paul Scholes' return to the squad is a bonus in that respect because historically, he has always given us an average of 10 a year. That was one of the things we missed last year when his season was cut down rapidly by injury.

"Hopefully, Ryan [Giggs] and Michael Carrick will make a contribution, as will the defenders, so we could have a healthy situation this year."

The manager also has Alan Smith back in the frame after the ex-Leeds star recovered from a serious leg injury.

Smith is now being seen as a forward again after being played in midfield last season.

"We tried Alan in central midfield last season because we were looking for someone with a certain type of aggression to replace Roy Keane," said Ferguson.

"However, now Scholes is back and we also have Carrick, Alan would have been behind players in the queue, so we felt it was better to use him in a position he is more acquainted with.

"In fact, there are no lingering doubts about him in terms of injury now. He just needs to work on his sharpness and timing. I am sure he will be fine."

Chelsea got a sweet revenge over Barcelona

2006-10-18T21:50:00.000-07:00

In a perfect night for Didier Drogba, he scored a brilliant goal to topple European champions Barcelona and put Jose Mourinho's squad in total control at the top of Group A.

As we all saw, the Ivorian is in incredible form and smashed home his ninth of the season, on the turn from the edge of the box. It was sweet revenge for Chelsea against the team who ended their own Champions League dream last season.

In fact, Chelsea have now won their first three matches of their European campaign and are in a strong position to go through to the knockout stages as group-winners.

As for Barcelona, with four points from three games, have a fight on their hands to qualify, with Chelsea their next rivals in the Camp Nou in two weeks.

IT's really good to notice that Hilario, in for injured keepers Petr Cech and Carlo Cudicini, kept a clean sheet on his debut and left the pitch clutching the match ball.

England captain John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho were immense in central defence but the keeper played his part with several saves, including a crucial late one from Deco. His first touch came two minutes and 20 seconds into the game when he dashed from his line to collect a loose ball. The home fans gave him a big warm cheer to let him know they were right behind him.

Then, Hilario saved Lionel Messi's angled drive in the 24th minute and turned a low shot from Xavi around the post on the half-hour.

Barcelona shaded first-half possession and, in their most fluent moments, cut through Chelsea but Ronaldinho had little impact on events. He chipped over in the 29th minute after escaping the excellent Boulahrouz and Hilario easily saved a tame free-kick from the Brazilian after the break. But that, and a couple of clever flicks, was about it from FIFA's World Player of the Year.

Gianluca Zambrotta stretched to stop Drogba's effort rolling into the net but was unable to get any distance on his clearance. It spilled back into the penalty area but bounced agonisingly half a yard behind Shevchenko.

German midfielder Michael Ballack squandered Chelsea's best chance of the first half when he rose unmarked to meet Frank Lampard's corner but planted his header over.

It was left to Drogba to open the scoring, less than two minutes after restart. The Ivorian got his ninth of the season and it was just as great as the stunner which beat Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, last month.

He controlled a pass from Cole, turned Carles Puyol and unleashed a fierce drive past Valdes. Drogba's strike opened the match up as Chelsea seized control and finished strongly. Shevchenko had a glorious opportunity to double the lead in the 55th minute but the Ukrainian can seem to do nothing right at the moment and shot over the gaping net.

The Football Glory

2006-10-10T19:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Unofficial site of the UEFA Champions League. We are a group of fans who will deliver you the latest news of the most important football tournament in the World.

We hope you enjoy this site, full of goals, passion and honor. Follow the games of some of the most important teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter, Manchester United, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and more...

There's no excuse to be bored. The Champions League is here!