4th March: UEFA Champions League (Part 1)

Manchester United vs. Lyon
Old Trafford
Tues 4th March, 19:45

Manchester united roll into this one playing good football but registering few wins. The recent rolling over of Fulham will have lifted morale and given one or two “fringe players” a work out, but it in no way compares to the task presented by the French champions. Wing sensation Nani has been going from strength to strength, whilst Ronaldo has had a much needed rest (sitting out the majority of the Fulham game). Similarly, Rooney and late goal specialist Tevez are 100%. Sir Alex knows the importance of the Champions League, and is well aware that it holds huge importance to his fans. For this reason, United will play full strength and for the win. Manchester United have won their last 9 UEFA Champions League games at home.
Lyon have never won the Champions League, only getting to the quarter finals on three separate occasions. They now know that a win is a must as it is very difficult to outscore United at Old Trafford. Lyon aren’t without goal threats - Benzema in particular has been highlighted by the media, with Sir Alex allegedly attempting to unsettle him. Lyon’s defence has been impressive, conceding none in their last 2 away UEFA games, but Manchester United pose a completely different threat.
Gary Neville and Silvestre are certain to miss out, and don’t be too surprised if Giggs doesn’t play either. Nemanja Vidic has recovered from his calf strain and should definitely feature.
Cris returns for Lyon whilst Boumsong looks set to earn a recall to the side.
I expect Manchester United to progress from this game with style. Don’t expect another United vs. Roma 7 -1 style score line though as Lyon are really fired up for this one.

Prediction

Man United 2 : 0 Lyon

Barcelona vs. Celtic
Nou Camp
Tues 4th March, 19:45

3-2 down after the first leg, Barcelona with 3 away goals, Celtic must win by two or turn the game into a classic. The key will undoubtedly be the first half hour where one Barcelona goal will need Celtic needing 3 at the Nou Camp. I think Celtic will have to play a patient counter-attacking game, and as we’ve seen in La Liga, they should get their chances.
Barcelona are world-renowned for the embarrassment of wealth they possess. They are feared worldwide, and feared at home. A draw is good enough to see Barca through, and I’m afraid that may be the initial game plan. Rijkaard wont risk too much with his neck on the chopping block, and so may set out for a 0-0, 1-0 result. This being said, the players he has just know here the goal is and can turn defence into attack in an instant. Barcelona are unbeaten in eight Champions League ties. A continuation of that tradition will see them through.
Cup-tied Andreas Hinkel wont feature, and will instead be replaced by either Mark Wilson or Paul Caddis. Scott Brown has recovered and will be back for this game. Superstar Messi should be back for Barcelona after missing a game through slight injury. Deco and Toure will also be back for Barca, though either Eto’o or Henry is likely to be benched, with us betting on the former. Rafaek Marquez is a big doubt.
I think one goal at least is an inevitability for Barcelona - but will Celtic be able to fight back.

Prediction

Barcelona 2 : 0 Celtic