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Wake up America! Opening day is over, the NFL Draft is behind us. It’s time to join the rest of the world in following the Champions’ League this spring.
This Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon some of the world’s best soccer talent will battle in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal round. Only 4 teams remain out of Europe’s 32 best clubs as the drama builds to grab the most prestigious trophy in all of club soccer.
Tomorrow, England’s Chelsea FC will travel to Camp Nou to take on Spain’s FC Barcelona. Barca is currently favored to win, as they crushed Bayern Munich on their home pitch in the quarterfinals. With Chelsea defender Ashley Cole facing a suspension, Barca’s high-powered offense led by Lionel Messi and Thierry Henry will look to capitalize. Chelsea is not short on scoring-power, dropping 4 on Liverpool in their last match, but the Blues will likely keep a defensive mind on Barcelona’s turf. Chelsea goaltender Petr Cech will undoubtedly have his hands full (pun intended) on Tuesday as many critics currently claim FC Barcelona the best team in the world.
Wednesday’s matchup will feature 2 more English clubs, reigning champs Manchester United FC and league-rival Arsenal FC, who meet at Man U’s Old Trafford Stadium for the first leg. Many fans seem to think that Man U’s current chase for the Premier League crown will distract the club from Champions League victory. With Cristiano Ronaldo running the show, I highly doubt it matters. Did anyone see this kid’s goal from about midfield last game (vs. Porto FC)?!? Dont; forget about Wayne Rooney. Arsenal has weapons of their own, most notably striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who seems to have fully recovered from a recent injury. But just because Arsenal isn’t chasing the English championship doesn’t mean the London squad will be able to overcome the talent and experience that Manchester United possesses.
MG Sports prediction:
Chelsea 1 Barcelona 3
Manchester United 2 Arsenal 1
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