Sunday, November 26, 2006

Prelude to the Serengeti - Matchday 5 Part 2

Group A

If Mourinho had expected his declaration of taking the match seriously, to give Werder a filip, he was cruelly underestimating the Bundeliga side. Condescension has the habit of pulling the rug out from under your feet the odd time. And so it proved. Not only did Werder burst out of the blocks and claim an early lead that settled the match, Chelsea picked up 2 crucial injuries that leaves them exposed in certain parts of the field against Man U for their decider on the weekend. Mourinho may have wanted Werder to win anyway, but always be careful what you wish for, the cost of defeat, in this case, proving to be more than it's worth.

Werder may not have the financial power or global appeal of teams from Spain, Italy or England, but are every much as solid an outfit. From the experienced defence to the rip roaring attack, they are among the most balanced teams in Europe this year. The fact that they play a sparkling brand of football makes them all the more popular. And this win gives them real belief that they can make it through to the next stage. They were menacing from the outset in this game, direct, clinical and trying to overwhelm Chelsea with both men and balls into the final third. I doubt Chelsea would have been able to beat them even if they had 'officially' tried. The fact that their progression will be at the expense of Barcelona, is the one touch of sadness that greets the conclusion of this group.

With Barcelona following the script and beating Levski, the game is very much on. This group will have a gripping end come next round. One thing is certain though, whichever of Barcelona or Werder fall out, it is the UEFA Cup's gain and the Champions' League loss.

Group B

Such is the depth of Internazionale this season that Mancini can pretty much name a completely different XI for consecutive matches and still strike fear into the hearts of their opponents. For Inter, it was a case of another cleansheet, another win, another goal by another Argentinian striker. This was the Italian team's third such win on the trot and after a serious series of opening hiccups, they are now easing through to the finishing line. Their early season malaise may well and truly be over and are boning up for the top spot in Group B at just the right time. Inter haven't been overwhelmingly dominant by any estimation. Yet, few people, myself included, will put money on Bayern holding on to the top spot in the Group come next matchday, when they host Inter, in the decider for top spot.

Sporting were tenacious again, hustling and bustling for loose balls and trying to thread balls to their lone striker Alecsandro. But Inter were in ominous form, their 4-3-3 rattling up 10 shots on target, if anything, the biggest surprise was Inter not adding to their tally. With this defeat Sporting ensured they will not progress, but still, they are in prime position to make the UEFA CUP.

If I were a Bayern Munich fan I would be a little troubled. They lack teeth against real opposition and are strangely devoid of a ruthless streak one would expect of a team with their pretensions. They can put away teams struggling with their own demons (Inter, Hamburg, Dortmund) but come a cropper against established sides brandishing some real firepower (Werder, Stuttgart) and struggle against anyone who puts up a resemblance of a fight (Sporting, Spartak). Bayern's midfield invention comes down to the intentions of one Schweinsteiger, their attack completely reliant on the fortunes of their strikeforce of the day, their defence generally absent. There seems to be lacking a concept of even, consistent all round play that puts paid to their hopes of being a threat in Europe this season. They drew against a superior Spartak side in a result that leaves the door open for Inter and were generally stale for large periods in this game.

Magath has his work cut out to try and stop Inter in their last game.

Group C

Liverpool continue to be a study in contrasts. Good one day, woeful the next. Sparkling one game, stale the following one. Perhaps, Benitez has given up on the marathon that is the domestic league to concentrate on the sprints of the FA Cup and the Champions' League. Whatever the reasoning may be, it clearly works in Europe where 'Pool, still unbeaten, comprehensively wrapped up top spot in the group with a controlled win in an even game against PSV. Admittedly, PSV experimented with a makeshift 4-3-3 featuring the marquee talents of Csaba Feher and Ibrahim Afellay in their starting XI (sic). But they were outfought by the home side led by the the impressive Gerrard - once again restored to his preferred place in the centre of midfield.

I doubt PSV threw the towel in pre-game, being as they were, tied at the start with Liverpool on 10 points, but their reasoning behind trying a new formation in a seemingly crunch game in the Champions' League escapes me. They still matched Liverpool for large periods of the match and it was their wayward finishing, if anything, that let them down. Job well done for the Dutch though so far - they will prove tricky opponents for anyone in the second round.

The problem with groups like this (see also Group A) that are decided so early, is that interest in games between the other 2 teams, and later games in general, is minor. True, UEFA Cup football may be at stake but that hardly gets the pulse racing as it is more of a consolation prize. Bordeaux finally got some just rewards for their attacking verve in a good 3-1 win over a poor Gala side. One of the few bright spots for the Turkish team was Japanese midfielder Junichi Inamoto who scored a good goal. Japan, can in fact, take much heart from the performances of Inamoto and Nakamura this week. If they can unearth/develop/import a strong holding midfielder, they may well make the jump from being simply Asian heavyweights to Global middleweights.

It'll be good to see Bordeaux move on to the UEFA cup. Gala meanwhile have to back to the European drawing board.

Group D

Valencia emphatically wrapped things up. This may be only a small resurgence (their game against Real on the weekend will prove that) in their recent slump but it was a good game to go out and win while taking the pressure of their final game. At kickoff they knew they were only 3 points ahead of Roma, who it seemed were on a high after a 7-0 humiliation of Catania the weekend before, and knowing they had to travel to the Stadio Olimpico for what could possibly be the crunch game, took matters into their own hands (Little did they know that Roma would contrive to lose). 2 quick goals either side of the breather, and they were home. For a change Joaquin started on the right wing while the versatile Raul Albiol started in central defence and Miguel Pallardo in the engine room in the middle of the park. Beating Valencia at home is hard enough, coming back form 2 goals down is near impossible. Olympiakos do not have the guile, talent or skill to break through formations like Valencia and their organization, though commendable, it eventually counted for nought. This defeat would not have worried them as much as Shakhtar's win over Roma, a surprise to say the least. That result, more than this put their UEFA Cup participation in doubt. They have to travel to the frigid steppe in their final game and beat Shaktar to progress. Intimidating to say the least.

Roma, should, for all intents and purposes have joined their Spanish counterparts in the last 16. Yet, inexplicably, they managed to somehow lose to a nippy Shakhtar side and now have to at least draw their last game. I'd still not be unduly worried If I were a Roma supporter as they have the tie breaker against Shakhtar. But playing away, in your last game, at the Mestella no less and needing a point to be absolutely sure, is not the ideal closing to a group stage. If Shakhtar do beat Olympiakos, which is entirely possible, and Valencia hold firm at the Mestella, while nicking a goal, thereby denying Roma a win, the Italians could well and truly be headed to the UEFA cup. Their participation in Europe would continue post Christmas, but not at the Nou Camp or Bernebeu but at St James' Park and Steaua stadium in Bucharest. That would be hard luck for a team featuring the talents that Roma have. However as the saying goes, you make your own luck - still, as maddeningly inconsistent as Roma is, they would surely be a welcome addition to the later stages of the Champions' League.

Shakhtar, them of the nouveau-riche Ukrainian pretensions, have set themselves up beautifully for a spot in the last 16. A win over the Greek side could take them into the next round while anything other than a loss would still give them UEFA Cup football - where let's be honest, they would make better opponents.

Continental European football, what's left of it, is and should be all about matching up teams of equal stature and means to provide thrilling even contests. It should not be David versus Goliath goalfests featuring the usual suspects playing musical chairs with the final few places. Shakhtar would be a better match in the UEFA cup, while they would be out of their depth in the round of 16 of the Champions' League. Roma, on the other hand, would better handle the challenges that lie ahead. Keeping that in mind we should not be overtly happy if Shakhtar do make it through. Their qualification would just provide an easy tie for one of the heavyweights while cruelly unbalancing one end of the draw. In the UEFA Cup however they could go very far and as such would fit in better. Additionally, they should last longer in the UEFA cup than in its richer cousin, so the extra matches, providing extra revenue would be another side benefit, in addition to the closer matches that it will bring.

One can only hope then that the chips do fall in place come next round.

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Speaking of next round - I would like to mention that I shall not be writing about it. I will be on vacation, going on safari around an African game park. I doubt there will be much to write about though. Still I hope it's enjoyable, exciting stuff. I, myself, hope the hippos and crocodiles of the Zambezi river keep their end of the bargain. I hope to spot the next Collins Mbesuma though (hint to my destination).

Cheers.

Saturday, November 25, 2006

Round 5 - Day One.

The Summit Nears.

Group E:

There was talk earlier this month of Mahamadou Diarra's contribution to Real Madrid. The exact question was "What exactly does he do?". Well, he was never brought in to liven up the proceedings with attacking guile and eye catching flair. He was brought in to do the dirty work. Tackle, win the ball, appear at all places at all times and be a thorn in the opposing midfield. Basically pi... the living daylights out of the enemy. Lyon were threatening to run away with this game, about to hand out a summary thrashing of sorts to the self proclaimed biggest team in the World, when their summer holdout, Diarra, hauled the Spanish team back into the game. Like his play, his goal was nothing attractive, just effective. After that Real showed some of the resilience that Capello has imbibed in them this season, fighting back into this tie to force a draw. The penalty Lyon conceded at the death was a bit harsh but Ruud van Nistelrooy promptly missed it to ensure the game finished fairly.

Lyon dominated this match uptil the second goal that Real scored. After that they were a little nervous but still they can hold their heads high. I've been salivating over this for weeks and though Lyon have taken their foot of the pedal a little in recent weeks, they were definitely up for this. A good solid performance from the French Champions. Now they have ensured they will top the group and few group runners-up will want to draw them in the next round. Real are still far from the finished article. It takes more than effective grinders in the backfield to be Champions' of Europe.

When Cernat scored off a rather comical free kick I feared that Steaua were about to undo all the hard work they have put into their European adventure this year. Luckily for them, and for footballing underdogs everywhere, they fought back and levelled things up midway through the second half. Not so long ago, Dynamo were the neutral's favorite, the charming Eastern European underdogs causing a flutter in the established arenas of Europe. How the pendulum has swung. If there is one word that can describe Kyiv's campaign this year - stale. There are smaller, more obscure teams stepping up to the plate. Along with the other 2 Bucresti clubs (Rapid and Dynamo) in the UEFA Cup, Steaua have made real waves this year. Having 3 teams in the final 32 of the UEFA cup will be a real bonus for Romanian football. And it will ensure that the Sorins, Dorins, Florins, Valentins and Constantins of Steaua will play in Europe past Christmas.

Group F:

As I have maintained all season, if you attack Manchester United right from the start and have a real go at them, they will crumble. They've been consistent this year, I do agree, but for all their blood and thunder, they are basically flat track bullies who push bodies upfield, pump balls into the box for Rooney or Saha or send it wide for Ronaldo to try and bend one in from range. The problem with that approach is that the dividends are often unsure. On one day and off another. The approach of bullying other teams may work in the premiership, where their reputation is phenomenal. But in Europe or against opposition less cowed by their attacking prowess, they can fall apart.

Celtic are no muppets. Gordon Strachan has taught them to fear no one - least of all Man U. They had a real go at them and came up trumps. I maintained right from the off that United were lucky to win the reverse fixture 3-2. This time Celtic held firm and rode their luck. Another magnificent performance embellished by Nakamura's gem of a free kick. Oh and Saha missed a penalty at the end - but one which probably would not have given had it been the other way around. So just desserts for an oft spoilt United outfit. When Ferguson told Saha pre season that he wanted him to emulate Ruud, I doubt he had this in mind. I'd be interested if Benfica were actually good enough to win at Old Trafford next round. In that instance, this game would have had real significance. It won't however as Benfica will lose at United. Still one can only hope.....

I'd like to write about Benfica beating Kobenhavn but I have little to say. Benfica are upper mid table in Portugal and off the pace in Europe. They are however good enough to beat Kobenhavn and unlike many teams (hint hint Man U) not cocky enough to take them lightly. Perhaps they are more unpretentious in that they treat every game with merit, mired as they are in domestic troubles. Porto and Sporting are leading Divisao 1 but Benfica have sadly fallen off the pace. This group would have been so much interesting otherwise. The Danes have gotten that one memorable result and have had trouble picking themselves up for the remaining games.

Group G:

There's something to be said about the ability to play well in scrappy match on a bouncy pitch. It harkens back to the schoolyard games of football we all played as kids, boots flying in from everywhere, the ball going every which way, no sense of formation or position once the ball neared a goalmouth, a mad scramble for a kick of the ball in midfield.

As beautifully orchestrated and, at times, mind numbingly boring, some of the tactics employed in the modern game are, we often lose sight of the what the game really is - 2 sets of 11 players trying to kick a ball into an opposing net. And that's what the game really boils down to.

Watching CSKA Moscow, recently crowned Russian Champions play Porto, it reminded of the after school scrapfests I was involved in as a 8 year old. There was much running, kicking, shoving and jostling, yet the game itself, apart from the 2 goals, had little to write home about. Much can be said about Porto's European performances, and indeed they have been very good at times, but this match was simply a case of which team was lucky enough to direct the ball into the net. There was little build up play or cohesion and despite Lucho Gonzales striking the ball sweetly enough, the goal he scored was flukey to say the least, the marking and coverage dismal. Lucho himself has gone from strength to strength in this season's champions' league and after watching Tevez and Mascherano fade more and more with each passing game for the Hammers, one wonders how long before Lucho's start in the Argentine midfield will occur.

I expected the Russians to play better than they did - but the sad matter is that Porto is less motivating than Arsenal and after having wrapped up the domestic league, CSKA were a pale shadow of their normal menacing steppe warrior selves. Aldonin and Zhirkov were a step too slow and while they may pride themselves on the prize scalp of Arsenal, they did themselves no favours with this rather dismal showing. Whereas they should have won this home fixture and cemented their chances of qualifying, they now simply have to beat Hamburg to ensure they progress.

Elsewhere in London, I got more than a little worried when I saw Arsenal trailing to an early Rafael van der Vaart goal. Hamburg may sport the same Fly Emirates logo as Arsenal, but, despite having some standout players, are definite class below. The thing about having standout players is that no matter how woeful a team's form (Hamburg are by all accounts truly so this season), they are capable of scoring the odd brilliant goal. So it was that Van der Vaart produced a peach of a shot to give Lehmann no chance and give the Germans a shock lead. Like Kieron Dyer, he won't score many more this season or many better ones in his career, and like Kieron Dyer on Saturday, he reserved one of his best for a game against Arsenal.

Normally, being 1-0 down in a critical fixture smacked of deja vu for the Gunners, notoriously poor mounters of fightbacks. But this team is different. Youthful zeal is often a poor replacement for veteran experience, but here it was the perfect tonic for a seemingly flagging European campaign. Shortly after the restart the drew even and kept chipping away with attacks. When the dust had settled, Arsenal were worthy 3-1 winners. Despite his important cameo on the weekend against Newcastle, Henry has been peripheral for most of this campaign. So it was that he sulked and shadowed himself in this game. The yellow card he picked up rules him out of the decider in Porto. On this form, both the team's and his, he won't be missed. 2 points of note - perhaps the size of the Ashburton Grove pitch allows teams that extra yard of space before they get closed down. That might explain the numerous goals conceded against the run of play by optimistic attacks if anything at all. It might be high time to move Eboue into the right side of midfield and out of defence.

Group H:

AEK showed everyone that aren't there to simply make up the numbers. While this win didn't completely ensure their progress to the next round, they did themselves no harm by beating a limp Milan side. Julio Cesar's free kick may not have made the headlines like Nakamura's thunderbolt for Celtic, but it was as important, as classy, as clinical. This AEK side have fight, they have gumption and they have the ability to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in. Of course against a Milan side that is simply reeling from one defeat after another, this was easier than normally possible. But the fact remains that every time AEK have been counted out in this group, they have emerged with a fighting display to give themselves a chance of progression. Home form is central in a 6 game mini group. By ensuring they collected 2 wins and a draw from their allotment, they are in with a shouting chance.

Milan, oh Milan, how the mighty have fallen. They resemble a Lamborghini from the front but a Lada from the rear. As encouraging as Kaka's and Pirlo's artistry is, the defensive shambles that is Nesta, Maldini and Costacurta is fast becoming a libility. Gattuso's absence may explain much, but the sad truth is that for a team that contains so much talent, a defensive midfielder should not be their most important player. Perhaps, the underestimated their Greek opponents, starting Brocchi at right back and Gourcuff on the right. Perhaps they relaxed a but too much knowing that qualification had been ensured. Their is no denying however that their season is fast spiralling out of control. They will still top their group but I cannot see them progressing past the next round.

For Lille, read opportunity lost. They should have summarily thumped Anderlecht but instead let them crawl back to even things twice. Now they have to beat Milan away and hope AEK don't do the the same to Anderlecht in the final set of matches. For the neutral it will make fascinating viewing but Lille fans will be gnawing their teeth in anxiety. Twice now they have handed the advantage BACK to inferior opponents in games they should have won. That's 4 and perhaps even 5 dropped points - a win over AEK in Greece may be asking too much. Their defensive lapses have been their Achilles's heel and at crucial times this season and in this game, went missing. All in all this game was a true reflection of their European odyssey - so much potential, a brief display of class and then, sudden descent back into underachievement. They now have to win their toughest tie of the campaign and it still might not be enough.

For the Belgians, a win in their last game may still give them UEFA cup football past Christmas. They own the head to head versus Lille thanks to 2 precious away goals in this game. Their game has been tidy but they lack weapons to cause mayhem at this level. 3 points from 3 draws seem harsh but it is no less than they deserved. Anderlecht are the poor cousins of modern football's big clubs. Massive at home but a feeder club none the less. They would however supplement the UEFA cup well.. if they make it there.


Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Random thoughts from all around.

Chelsea's prelude to implosion...

If Chelsea win the Champions' League this year - it may not be such a bad thing. It would be the culmination of Roman's puerile ambition. He would have won whatever he set out to win and may, just may, decide he's had enough and start preparing for a pullout. Eventually, he may divest himself of Chelsea and they will sink back to the glorious mediocrity whence they came, devoid of those plastic fair weather fans they have come to attract.

Jose himself, may finally decide he too has had enough and move on to different pastures. Either way, he may decide that this year is his last and if he leaves, having failed to make Chelsea into European Champions, the helmsmanship of Chelsea may be viewed as a poisoned chalice that will keep potential managers at bay. Ironically, knowing the fickle nature of football - especially in Spain - do not discount Mourinho taking over Barcelona if and when Riijkaard gets sacked. If Barcelona do not make it out of the group stage this year - Frank may be shown the door.

It would be hilarious to see Chelsea fall apart if Mourinho and/or Roman leave. Lampard and Terry will then realise that they are indeed above average players excelling in a stiff system backed up by chests of Siberian gold. Their stockpiled talent may be allowed to leave for teams where they will be better appreciated and needed, and a bit like Juventus, most teams will pick and choose over the carcass that remains. It will be rather pathetic

Juventus' community service...

Speaking of Juventus, their relegation to Serie B may have another latent benefit. As a result of their demotion, people all over the world who follow football are now curious to see who they are playing every week. The likes of Rimini, Bologna and Ascoli would normally be Greek to most armchair football fans arounds the world, but now, thanks to their weekly jousts against the Bianconeri, they pique the curiosity. As a result, Serie B now gets more attention than it has received at any time in the past little while - and this is good for football on the whole. Since we're on the topic of Italian football, Inter and Roma both won - the latter handing Milan yet another defeat. Inter thought, seem to be settling into their stride and should finally win this title on their own accord. Not of course, if Palermo have anything to do about it, now topping the table on goal difference after another convincing win over Torino 3-0. Inter however, have strength in depth and an unbeaten record - Palermo lack both.

German flair...

German football is often considered to be dull and boring while being efficient. A bit like the German national team. However, based on this year's evidence, it is anything but. Some of the best goals this year have been scored in the Bundesliga (Marko Pantelic step forward). Personally it was refreshing to see Borussia Dortmund (them of the 70,000 fans) beat leaders Werder to throw open the title race. 10 days ago Borussia looked like doing a Newcastle, now they're just off the Champions' League places. At the other end of the table, man for man, Hamburg may be the best team to sit in a relegation place in Europe this year. They won't go down of course, but they should really be doing so much better. It's fitting, that in a year in which Germany finally showed relentless attacking flair on the international stage, their league should be dominated by the more attack minded teams.

In Spain, Barcelona went back on top but their wins have lately seemed to always have a tinge of favour from the referees. Sevilla drew to fall off the top, while Valencia's mini slump seems to be jeopardizing their chances of challenging, this early, in the season. Deportivo kept yet another clean sheet while Athletico burst back into life with a big win. It's obvious, any team that maintains a shred of consistency will pull clear, this dog eat dog league taking care of the chasing pack - no pun intended. Just who will be that first among equals - remains to be seen. At this rate the Champions' League places may go to anyone from Celta to Getafe - now that would be something

In some of the bigger games on the weekend - PSV scored a flukey winner to beat Ajax and go back on top of the table. The goal reminded me of the ridiculous opener that the Dutch conceded against Germany at Euro 2004. In England, Arsenal produced one of the performances of the season in comprehensively dismantling Liverpool at Ashburton grove. Finally, a big home win at the new stadium.

In France, Lyon resumed normal service after their shock defeat to Rennes last week. Meanwhile my favorite French undercards, Lille, beat Marseille to go second. As I keep maintaining, Lille may very well advance in the Champions' League. Also good to see Monaco return to some semblance of form with a solid 4-0 away win against Troyes. Lyon have been keeping one eye on their match against Real next round in the Champions' League. Marseille, meanwhile seem to be stcuk in perpetual limbo, yo-yoing up and down in midtable.

As I write this, I notice that today's Euro Qualifier between Portugal and Kazakhstan, features a starting lineup comprising players (bar one) from only the 3 Champions' League participants - Porto, Sporting and Benfica. No surprise then to notice the fact that it is the same triumvirate that fill the top 3 spots in Portugal. In truth, Porto and Sporting are pulling away at the top while Benfica is mired in the chasing pack.

I've been so busy the last 2 weeks - working till the late hours of the night. Footbal though has been just as occupied. I'll leave you with one word - Mitropa.

Cheers.

Friday, November 3, 2006

Finishing is not everything - it's the only thing

Ever so often - just when you think you can detect a pattern in the greater scheme of footballing things; inexplicably, things go very, very wrong.

That's exactly what happened on the Wednesday of Matchday 4 of the Champions' League. One big name took a tumble, another had a stumble, while some others were run close by some small fish trying to cause a rumble.

I guess Matchday 4 Wednesday was more about normal service being rudely interrupted - what should have been and what really was were quite different. Nonetheless it meant the interest in certain groups were kept alive for another round at least. And that, I guess, is basic requirement of competition.

But, as a result I've been in a stupor for a day. Contemplating some of the possibly dire ramifications of the shocking inability of certain prefessional footballers to stick a ball in an empty net from a few yards out - surely the simplest most basic act in football.

Group E

Lyon 1 - 0 Dynamo
Real 1 - 0 Levski

Olympique Lyon were rarely troubled in this seemingly leisurely stroll to another win (14th straight in all competitions) and another clean sheet (4th on the trot in the Champions' League). In truth, of course, they had plenty of chances which they were unable to put away and manager Houllier's off the cuff remark that the match was 'so superb' that 'it should have finished 3-1 or 4-1' while a little arrogant, was nearer the mark than it seems.

However, such are the ridiculous standards Lyon have set themselves that they appeared, just a little, jaded and uninterested. Whether this performance signalled more than just the French Champions' taking their foot off the pedal, having virtually assured themselves of a place in the next round, we'll never know, but the fact remains that Lyon displayed none of the attacking vigour that normally accompanies their games.

Initially, atleast it seemed so, with Lyon preferring young striker Karim Benzema to big bruising Norwegian John Carew, not to mention leaving out Kim Kallstrom and Sylvain Wiltord. But I wonder, in keeping out a traditional hulking centre forward, who's better at converting set pieces into goals, in favour of a young pup who deals in the currency of pacy, direct football, was Houllier signalling his intention to pave the way for the next generation of Lyonnais talent while doling out some much needed continental experience in a semi dead home game. Or was he taking the game to lightly with one eye on the weekend Ligue 1 game ? However, such is Lyon's mastery of the local scene that they have virtually destroyed any semblance of a title fight by opening up an 11 point lead in France - so surely the next Champions' league game against Real Madrid represents their earliest most meaningful match - in bragging rights alone. In the event, Benzema scored the only goal and we'll never know if this was the start of Lyon coming back down to Earth or just a small pitstop on their way to the Bernebeu.

As for the game itself, Lyon's profligacy in front of goal would have made headlines, if it weren't for the other events elsewhere this night (More on that later - SEE ARSENAL v CSKA) while Dynamo, well, they seemed unable to really get out of second gear. For reasons known only to them, if at all, and a mystery to everyone else, Dynamo's sojourn in Europe this season has been strangely muted. They've worked hard, been organised and proficient at the simple things. Perhaps their strikers have lacked assurance, perhaps their midfielders have lacked ideas, but one thing is certain - Dynamo have lacked any potency this year. I see interesting formations every week - on Tuesday Shaktar treated us to an 'old skool' rendition of the stopper-sweeper line up in their back four - but Dynamo's odd sided lineup was comical to say the least. They played an odd formation with 4 at the back, 3 in the middle, 2 up front and Serhiy Rebrov alone on the left flank - something of a half forward, expected to cut in I would imagine. In the event he was left out in the cold, never part of the action and due to his positional bearings, frozen on the left. Artim Milevskyi was a virtual non entity, one close shot, that skimmed the bar, apart. Personally, I would have opted for the experience of Maksim Shatskik for the novelty of Ayila Yussuf in the middle of the park and shunted Rebrov to partner Milevskyi up front.

They are still in with a small chance of hauling in 3rd for the UEFA Cup place but I wouldn't put money on it. Despite coach Demianenko's good work, the Ukrainian team needs a major retool and rethink to be competitive in Europe again.

One only need to compare Dynamo with Steaua Bucharest, from the same group. Whereas the Romanians, no doubt displaying the enthusiasm of youth, have played really well, in beating Dynamo themselves, and while losing to Real and Lyon. Despite having a limited roster, they've made a real game of it. Against Real today, only a farcical own goal prevented them from picking up a well deserved point from an away draw against the Spanish aristocrats.

Admittedly, Ruud missed a penalty which could have put Steaua away, but it would have been harsh on the team from the Romanian capital. As far as chances go, both sides missed sitters, with recalled Real defender Helguera's orbit shot from a yard out topping the list. For the underdogs both Petre Marin and Oprita came close; however, knowing that they spent most of the first half with Real pressed back in their own area will be encouragement enough.

Real are still far from the finished article, with Robinho and Raul, in particular, in this game, still showing the inconsistency that often separates good teams from great ones. Nonetheless, they have come miles from their disarray last year and will mount a serious challenge both in Europe and in Spain. Capello has decided to go with a midfield featuring 2 extremes this season, pairing the twin defensive grinders of Emerson and Mahamadou Diarra with no less than 4 forwards. So it came as no surprise when Steau took advantage of this imbalance to impose themselves at the start. While it's a shame that his one main change to this Real outfit had been the introduction of 2 defensive choppers, sadly it's been the most crucial. Both Emerson and Diarra have added some much needed steel in the back field and like Chelsea, cynicism in their play may be their strongest ingredient of their consistency.

As it happens this group is now wrapped up. Only the final positions remain to be decided. Both Lyon and Real go through. Hopefully Lyon can put on a show when they go to the Bernebeu next round - but I sense that game may be the first they lose this year. Levski have to ensure they don't lose by a huge margin to Dynamo in the next round to seal qualification to the UEFA cup. Once there, they may - just may - be one of 3 Romanian teams in the round of 32.

Group F

Kobenhavn 1 - 0 Man U
Benfica 3 - 0 Celtic

Upset of the week belonged to the Danish team. They pulled off a shocker in trumping Man United and spoiling the latter's perfect record. Perhaps, in riding a high after a good 4 - 0 demolition of Bolton at the Reebok on Saturday, the Mancunians were suffering a slight hangover - but the truth remains they have too much money and seemingly, resources, to let that be the case - especially against a side like Kobenhavn who operate on a fraction of the money, support and competition.

But the truth is, other than grit and graft, United have few truly talented players. Their squad is made up of robotic passers, tacklers and markers - their machine like system barrelling away at the opposition till a goal is scored. Other than their wingers Giggs (whom I respect) and Ronaldo (whom I loathe), they have a whole raft of interchangeable middling players who fit well in their system, but will never set a game alight - Rooney apart. And even Rooney, for all his talent is a just a faster, more clinical version of John Hartson, with a predeliction for shooting. And as for shooting - when they go in, they're spectacular but when they don't they look ordinary - with the difference between a scorcher and a shot off target a mere few inches. I cannot call that a good gameplan - which would explain why Rooney's been on a drought despite not playing any differently and when he does score he scores a hatful - somedays the shots work, other days they don't. Simply blasting it from distance repeatedly till success is hardly a skill worth committing to legend. This defeat should bring them down to Earth a bit. They'll still go through though - easily.

It was a pleasant surprise to see Marcus Allback get on the scoresheet. The pace and graft of English football has a nasty habit of reducing some pretty good players to unremarkable non entities hoping to see out their contract and leave (SEE Savo Milosevic, Gaitzka Mendieta, Juninho, etc, etc). Allback's alway been a better player than his record in England has suggested and he provided the perfect riposte by claiming the goal that condemned one of the premiership's biggest lights to an unlikely defeat. Kobenhavn won't go far in Europe this year - but they have ensured this campaign will be truly memorable. Hell you never know, If Tobias Linderoth and Tomas Gravgaard play another blinder, they might even make the UEFA cup.

Benfica went a long way in undoing their disastrous game in Glasgow last time out with a good 3-0 win over Celtic. I know Gary Caldwell scored an own goal and assisted on another - but Benfica showed more heart and more desire in this game. They were all over Celtic and brought all their continental experience and pedigree to bear. Just when I was beginning to think Celtic were going to show us how far they have come under Gordon Strachan, they completely let me down. I had expected them to come out and add a slight defensive tinge to their natural game, keep it tight at the back and come away with an away draw. Instead they seem to have tried to run before they learnt to walk - trying to outgun a seasoned European team in its own backyard. For all their running and hustling, Nakamura, Caldwell, Sno, Kenny Miller and Maloney do not have the know how to switch to Champions' League away mode - where they cut out passes, build slowly from the back and keep possession. It took Arsenal several years to learn it and perhaps Celtic will need a few as well. In this game they were frequently caught out at the back and their midfield repeatedly over extended themselves. Still, they are in prime position to make it out of this group.

Benfica, obviously smarting from defeat in the league, to rivals Porto on the weekend, came out firing. It speaks of their ambition and desire that not only did Quim launch an audacious long ball from a goal kick, Nuno Gomes actually chased it down. Fortune favours the bold they say and indeed for Nuno Gomes, it proved to be true. Karyaka's notch, Benfica's third goal was classic counter attack and once again the defence was all over the place. So the two teams have now split their games and for Benfica, qualification is still very much on.

Group G

Arsenal 0 - 0 CSKA
Hamburg 1 - 3 Porto

I am still slightly depressed when I think of the Arsenal game. Just how the Gunners managed to keep an attacking clean sheet despite being utterly dominant is completely beyond me. It's one thing to not create chances or not create chances that are good goalscoring opportunities. It's a wholly different matter to miss the goal from 3 feet out with no goalie in sight and all the time in the world. All 4 of Arsenal's attacking fulcrum missed sitters - sitters that were asking to be put away. Sitter's that they have been putting away since they first learnt to walk.

Let's put it this way. Parochial bias aside. Arsenal's domination of CSKA was the most completely one sided match in the Champions' League this season and quite possibly ever. They rained shots on the CSKA goal all game, they tore the defence to shreds, ratcheting up over 60% possession at one point and still COULD NOT STICK ONE BALL IN THE NET. The game was crying out for a Pippo Inzaghi type player. As such Baptista and Adebayor were both missed - terribly. As such Van Persie and Rosicky both missed - horribly.

As a result Arsenal are now making heavy weather of what should have been a moderate group. Their match against Hamburg was one that they should win - now it's a game that they MUST win. A bit like General Cornwallis at the fag end of the American War of Independence, "How did it come to this?". CKSA were virtual spectators in this match and had ONE chance where they caused a flutter in the Arsenal camp. That's how much they were out of this game.

Match report aside. Thierry Henry was once again increasingly peripheral as the game wore on and the pressure built up. For all his talent and skill, personal inspiration and the ability to handle pressure are not among them. I hate to round on him in what must be, one hopes, a difficult time for him - but this is the latest big game in which his first 15 odd minutes have been underwhelming and his game has faded further thereafter. Thierry, like Arsenal on and off the last 4 seasons, are all about the rhythm developed in the first little bit -- they cannot work themselves into a game - they either arrive ready to set the field alight, or they don't turn up. Like many people have observed - there is something to be said about the canny knack of winning a game despite playing well below one's potential. Sadly, this may very well be the price one has to pay for this team's undoubted brilliance.

Still, practically speaking, they created a boat load of chances, like in the weekend draw against Everton, and they will be in much better shape once they win the home game against Hamburg next week. No Arsenal fan would want them to go to Porto needing a win in their final game. I certainly don't.

I never expected Hamburg to be this bad once the tournament started and Porto to be this good. No other team has racked up as many goals, in this 2 game home and away, as Porto has against Hamburg. The Portugese team built on their epic weekend win against Benfica, by steadily dominating a Hamburg side that has fallen so far in just one season. Surely Porto's attacking quintet of Quaresma, Postiga, Lisandro Lopez, Lucho Gonzalez and Raul Meireles are one of the better offences this season. On this performance alone they deserve to be.

Despite being outshot in the first half, Porto were never really troubled. As soon as the first half wound down they were on their way with an outstanding volley from Lucho. Once again a deep cross from Quaresma on the right caused the Hamburg defence all sorts of problems, and as it came out to the edge of the box, no one had picked out Lucho, who unleashed a spectacular shot into the top corner. Shortly after the restart they went 2 up - this time Lisandro getting in on the action, beating Atouba to another Quaresma cross. For the second time in 2 weeks Quaresma won the battle against Sorin, the Hamburg defence went AWOL on crucial plays and their attack was barely competent. Even when Van der Vaart scored you sensed it was only a lull in the storm and sure enough it was Porto who added a third later in the game.

Now they've won twice in 2 games and have caught up with Arsenal who are now 3rd on goal difference. This group will go right down to the wire - and Porto now have the momentum. Let's see what happens in Russia in Matchday 5.

Group H

Milan 4 - 1 Anderlecht
AEK 1 - 0 Lille

If Milan were still smarting from their derby day humbling at the hands of Inter, it didn't show here. Imperious from the start, they brused aside Anderlecht's weak excuse for a challenge and have virtually asured themselves of a spot in the round of 16.

Watching Kaka singlehandedly dismantle the Belgians, one wondered, who else can boast of such potent class in the middle of the park. Virtually solo, he destroyed Anderlecht with guile, poise and cultured finishing. While his salvo began from the penalty spot, shooting high over goalie Zitka for the openener, there was nothing brutish about his later 2 goals - simply sublime. The first one was to remind us all that the school ground give and go can still make its way to the back of the net - while the second was just a sweet shot from the left - a bit like Deco against Chelsea - but only better.

Gilardino added a fourth late in the game as Milan comprehensively ended the rout. Gilardino is one of the unluckiest strikers around who seemed unable to get a goal no matter how hard he tried - but now he's scored in consecutive games - surely giving impetus to the striker that he was originaly bought as. As for Kaka - he's scored 4 goals against Anderlecht in 2 games. There won't be any Christmas cards coming his way from the Belgians.

Milan were purposeful, singleminded and clinical. From the opening pass to the final whistle they played as if it was a cup final - pressing, pushing, harrying yet maintaining their shape. There's a fine line between enthusiasm and exuberance (SEE LEEDS under David O' Leary). Milan placed themselves perfectly.

However, I must check myself, this overindulgence in praising Milan, takes away from what was a competent but eventually under-par game for Anderlecht. On shots, they are even with their Italian opponents but their finishing and approach play rarely threatened the Milan goal. Anderlecht, no doubt, have some young and up and coming talent but like several teams - will perpetually make it to the group stage without going far. Another sad indictment of the game is that when some smaller team actually makes a difference and wins the title - it's coached by someone as intolerably inhuman as Jose Mourinho.

Lille came unstuck here in the worst way possible. Ironically, against Greek opposition, their Greek defensive stalwart, Stathis Tavlaridis, got sent off. Having to play for most of the game with just 10 men, away from home, proved too much for them. Now they face a real battle to progress. Normally, Kader Keita is a consummate attacking presence in the middle of the park, but like many members of this summer's Ivorian national team, defends only as an afterthought. On even strength, he is a worthwhile investment in the team but while playing short handed, is a bit of an adornment - something of a liability. And for all their graft and grit, Lille were eventually undone by a late Liberopoulos goal.

Group H is now very interesting. Don't assume anything.

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How did I do ?

Not very well I am afraid - 3 out of 8.

Celtic and Hamburg let me down terribly - their lack of tactical nous exposed both me and them. And as for Arsenal and Man U - well what can I say. Nothing is ever certain in sport.

AEK - Lille was always going to be a tough call - I would argue that had it remained 11 versus 11 - Lille would have won.

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Tactic of the day:

I'll plump for the 4-5-1 this time - both Portugese teams used them in emphatic victories. It's received a lot of bad press as the harbinger of defensive, boring football, but it can be just as exciting as a more fashionable attacking layout.

The 4-3-3 used by the French teams and AEK has to come close though - almost as effective.

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Team of the day:

(4-5-1)
Quim; Clerc, Toure, Gravgaard, Marin; Quaresma, Kaka, Simao, Lucho Gonzalez, Tobias Linderoth; Nuno Gomes;


Wednesday, November 1, 2006

Barcelona might be done - can Inter inherit the mantle ?

Greetings,

Last Matchday I was heavy into the technical analyses - formations, spaces, channels and starting options. It was Matchday 3 after all.

This matchday, like I predicted, some groups got themselves more or less decided - so I'll draw on some general observations about the various encounters. So much football - so little time.

Onwards.

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Group D

Roma 1 - 1 Olympiakos

Roma beat Olympiakos away from home last time round but much to my dismay, could only manage a come from behind draw this time.

Roma for all their variety in attack (they've had goals from 12 different players so far in Serie A) is maddeningly inconsistent. After ending plucky, Serie A outfit, Udinese's home unbeaten record at the latter's ground on the weekend, one would think this game was ripe for Roma to pull out a clinical performance to see off Olympiakos.

In the event, nothing of the sort happened.

Roma reverted to type, insisted on making things hard for themselves. Even though they salvaged a draw, with a Totti strike midway through the second half, the fact remains that inspite of their attacking intent, possession, and edge in shots on goal, Roma were trailing for large parts of this game. In a season in which they should cast off the shackles of the pre-moggipoli era and begin to deliver on some real promise by finally being consistently competitive both domestically and abroad, Roma are sometimes still a frustratingly unpredictable outfit to follow. One wonders where their campaign would be if they could not call on the services of loyal captain Francesco Totti along with veterans Montella and Panucci. Still, perhaps I am being a bit harsh and so far you have to say, job done well enough. One more point from their final 2 games should see them through.

Olympiakos are a decidedly mediocre outfit, something of a Fulham in the Champions' League - not quite good enough to make an impression but consistently in among the qualifiers. In trying to blend local Greek talent - ably demonstrated by midfield grafters like Stoltidis, Anatolakis and Patsatzoglou with expired foreign veterans like Rivaldo and Djordevic, Olympiakos have ensured they will always be competitive on the Greek scene and a threat in the UEFA cup - but will never be an impressive quantity in Europe.

I guess the biggest
irony is that this system, despite being perfect for a team of their status, unable to attract big name talent from outside the country but able to buy some of the best Greek starlets, will never be a recipe for success continentally. Sadly for football at large, the very presence of the Olympiakos' is testament to the vicious circle that has been growing within football for the last decade - the big, rich teams getting bigger and richer with everyone else becoming also rans. I never espeted them to threaten Roma and Valencia - and so far they have not.

The fight for 3rd spot with Shakhtar should make interesting viewing.

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Shakhtar 2 - 2 Valencia

Perhaps I was too effusive in my praise of Valencia last time around. On cue they have promptly let me down.

Easily one of Europe's most impressive teams till about midday Saturday, they have now shipped 3 goals in 2 matches, lost to an inferior Racing Santander on the weekend and twice let Shaktar Donetsk take the lead today. I know, Valencia were the away team, it's cold in the former USSR this time of the year and traditionally, teams from the bigger leagues fare badly in these lands. While I don't dispute that, I don't wholly agree either. Only those teams which play a fluid passing style and keep the ball on the ground for large periods are bound to suffer. The grass is rarely cut evenly, the ground is hard and the bounce uncertain - hence the slick passing of the interchanging midfield and attack is stifled.

Valencia, though, are not like that. Their formation is more rigid, forever welded to a 4-4-2, their style is direct and their threat from set pieces ominously as effective as from open play. One would think, and past history shows, they are as dangerous away from home in a cold stadium in mid winter as they are at home in Mestella in mid August. I just hope they don't let this minor blip in their form become a blot on their otherwise impressive start to the season. Lack of concentration ? Maybe. Complacency ? Perhaps. It better not be arrogance. Once again powerhouse winger Joaquin started on the bench. I would have started him on the left instead of David Silva.

Then again, I may be taking a lot away from Shaktar who were, in general, excellent in this game. Jadson's opening free kick was inch perfect and Fernandinho's crisp 30 yard strike will make many a highlight reel. Still, they should have won. They had many more shots on goal and should have made a strangely static Valencia pay. Their movement was disciplined and their passing sharper than their Spanish opponents. On the night, however, they will be happy with the point. Their main games in this group have always been the ones against the Greeks to decide 3rd place and precious UEFA cup qualification. That race is still very much on.

Valencia should top this group - unless they lose the plot completely and limp into the knockout stages.

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Group C

Liverpool 3 - 0 Bordeaux

Like a well trained St. Bernard, Liverpool continued their impressive home form and destroyed a Bordeaux side, to simply collect all 3 points. The French team on the other hand, simply did not turn up.

For the first time in 90 odd games Rafa Benitez persisted with a
starting XI; the Scousers used space well, got a goal from captain Gerrard and a brace from Luis Garcia - the first one ruthless in its execution.

I guess there was little motivation in the French team - they dominated the corresponding home game to still lose - they probably thought, subconsciously, that with qualification slim, their chances against a rampant Liverpool playing at home would be slimmer still; so they seemed to just go through the motions.

Once Garcia scored the first, the result was indicated. Once midfielder Megazzano was sent off, it was confirmed and once Gerrard rifled in the second - it was academic. The good news for Bordeaux was that Crouch did not score, fatally for them, neither did they. Johann Micoud must now surely question, especially in the wake of events unfolding in Group A, the wisdom of trading the colours of Bremen for the home comforts of Bordeaux. On this display, the Champions' league will be none the poorer with the French teams' absence. Pierre Ducasse did a poor job protecting his back four while Marouanne Chamakh was limp in his 12 minute cameo upfront.

Now that the group is decided, the race is on to finish as winners. In that contest Liverpool will need more than just a settled first XI. PSV are hardened warriors who wont flinch at the sight of red. Liverpool are like a motley band of medieval mercenaries who approach every game like a siege a castle, hurling everything at the walls and gate, using a batttering ram (Crouch) while hoping that some of the better fighters (Garcia, Kuyt, Gerrard) can steal over the top and open the gates. PSV are more county milita than standing army - wily, well trained and able if a little blase. Liverpool's main weapon is their lack of consistent gameplan, tactics or rhythm - bringing in an element of unpredictability to their games - PSV are more organised having a set gameplan and established firepower.

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PSV 2 - 0 Galatasary

Okay - till Croat Stjepan Tomas was sent off for some typically over enthusiastic wrestling, Gala were arguably the better team. You can sense the sinews in my neck tensing as I inserted the word 'arguably' into that sentence; because for all their inspired attacking, they lack the weapons to hurt a pedigreed defence like PSV's. Sasa Ilic is a poor man's version of Dejan Stankovic and while Umit Karan and Hasan Sas may fatten up against the Samsunpors and Trabzonspors of the Turkish domesic scene, they come a cropper against more professional outfits that they encounter in Europe. Gala are fast receding into the shadows of the European scene - from whence they came - their fin-de-sicle glory, but a minor upturn in their perennial record of mediocrity.

PSV on the other hand - are wily old hands at this kind of thing. They regularly compete, have a consistent, proud record domestically (where their recent domination is in danger of discrediting the Dutch Eredivisie even further; the domestic triopoly they share with Ajax and Feyenoord notwithstanding) and were one fortunate shot away from the Champions' league final 3 season ago. A bit like Lyon, they regularly leak their best players and often, their top scorers, every off season but still return; often stronger than before. Perhaps their off season capture of Ronald Koeman this time, was their best acquisition.

I never saw them surrendering the keys to the citadel even once this game. While Timmy Simons was the established border garrison commander, protecting the home front, Jefferson Farfan was a rampant general, marauding deep into enemy lands. When PSV had the upper hand they used it to full effect - their passes were deadly, their intent direct and their execution professional. Kone and Simons were clinical with their chances. The former showing great confidence to continue his run and finish - if only he had done the same at the World Cup, one wonders, Cote D'Ivoire may have advanced !

Still, PSV must look ahead to their tussle with Liverpool with a sense of focus. That clash should decide the group winners. This year the difference between first and second may make a much bigger difference than in seasons past.

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Group B

Spartak 0 - 1 Inter

About a month ago, whilst fulfilling a lifetime dream of visiting San Siro, I was about to enter the Milan dressing room (right after leaving the Inter one), when I was prefaced by the tour guide, that the Milan dressing room was much more luxurious and better than the facilities belonging to Inter.

At the moment however, it is Inter who are playing the more luxurious and better football. After a champagne attacking performance in the Milan derby, that was direct in its method and clinical in its execution, one feared for the prospects of Spartak Moscow. If the continental aristocrats of Milan had been humbled on their own turf, what chance did the blue collar proletariat of the Russian League stand ?

I had been critical of Inter earlier in the season as once again they insisted on trying to scale the walls to the keep when the front gates were open - looking disjointed and sluggish in the opening skirmishes in both Serie A and Europe. But then they woke up - and how. Last round an opening salvo from Argentinian benchman Julio Cruz destroyed Spartak and today he continued in the same vein. A cool header for an early goal, game, set and match. I'd like to especially mention Mancini's smart move, of Javier Zanetti into the middle of the park, after his virtuouso display on the weekend - Patrick Vieira was barely missed.

Whatever fatigue, the sprint to the stadium via the subway in rush hour, had caused to the Russian team, they were soon in their stride passing the ball around, and shaded posession on the night. However, in freezing conditions, nursing an early away goal, Inter were never going to come out to play and were rarely pushed. Despite relying mainly on counter attacks they had a few chances to increase their tally - if any criticism can be levelled at the Nerazzurri during this stretch it has to be their inabilty to put opponents away and seal out the match. Roman Shiskin's bullet against the crossbar was Spartak's best chance as they failed to make anything out of the home field advantage and the freezing conditions - then again with the presence of so many key Brazilians in their team (similar to Shakhtar and CSKA for that matter) - one wonders just how much of an advantage playing on the frozen steppe in winter provides.

Inter are back on track and should close out second place. Their clash with Sporting Lisbon next round, crucial in this regard, as it will not only decide second place, but also provide a litmus test to the longevity of Inter's recent mini streak. Spartak must surely hate the very mention of Julio Cruz. Once not so long ago, Spartak destroyed a frozen Arsenal team 4-1 at home in a Champions' League tie - now they've gone 20 odd games without a win.

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Bayern 0 - 0 Sporting

One would have thought that with qualification all but ensured, playing at home, against a team looking nervously over its shoulder, Bayern would play classic spoiler to Sporting's attacking intent - relying on the counter attack and a quick 3 man front field of Pizzaro, Santa Cruz and Roy Makaay to score some neat goals. Nothing of the sort happened. The teams may have come out to the strains of Hans Zimmer's Gladiator soundtrack - but on the battlefield they remained remarkable unemotional and uncomitted.

Sporting weren't terrible but didn't show much urgency to eke out a win - while Bayern were simply boring. They defended when they had to, made an attempt to attack when they were called upon - but did little to suggest they cared much about this game at all. I guess they knew they had to just draw and they did just that. Since Sporting rarely committed themselves enough to be susceptible to the classic counter-attacking sucker punch, Bayern had little opportunity (or desire for that matter) to unleash their quick heeled Peruvian strikeforce or the flying Dutchman in the opposing half.

There is little to analyse and even less to say about a game in which there were only 2 real chances, and had the tactical sophistication of a pair of 5 year olds trying to smother each other with little blankets. The jeers at the Allianz Arena were well founded as Bayern slipped
form the heady heights of it's first 3 games. Sporting may have made 3 changes to their starting XI - but Paredes had a horrid game, Yannick was terrible, Carlos Martins was anonymous, after a lively opening, while their backline of Polga, Caneira, Tello and Tonel held
firm without doing anything outstanding. Bayern for their part missed Bad Boy Bastian in the middle of the park, as the game wore on, the need for a mercurial talent like his, seemed ever more pressing. Atleast the flypaper that is Van Bommel did not play - else the 2 shots Sporting had on target would have been reduced further. Andreas Ottl and Daniel van Buyten seem perfect for the Bavarians - unhurried, unbothered, unable to entertain.

Before I discount them altogether, I must say however, that Sporting were probably tired from their epic 3 - 3 draw at domestic rivals Beira Mar on Friday and did hit the woodwork - a drive from Moutinho crashing against the crossbar. If that had gone in, perhaps the game would have changed. Just like in the other game featuring Spartak - if the shot had been a few inches lower and a goal ensued - things could have been different.

Bayern though, won't complain - Sporting have their work cut out for them.

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Group A

Levski 0 - 3 Bremen

Okay honestly, did anyone actually think Levski stood a chance ?

Bremen have been in sparkling form of late - hitting up everyone for a couple of goals - and seemingly scoring for fun. Admittedly, the scene of carnage this time was in Bulgaria but that scarcely made any difference. Add in a nervous rookie goalie who scores in his own net - the recipe for disaster had all the ingredients set. Bremen were rarely stretched - Frings and Baumann adding to the tally - and cruised to an easy win. The 3 points puts them ahead of Barcelona now and the Chelski's sad dominance of this group has ensured that 1 of the 2 true attacking teams in this group will now miss the next round - to the eternal discredit of the competition thereafter. Along with the Catalans, Arsenal, Lyon and Inter, Bremen are arguably one of few teams in Europe this season who seem to reintroduce attack into an art form - expertly combining dexterity with the ball and smoothly coreographed player movement.

Levski, like in every single one of their previous games, made some critical mistakes; but once again will have learnt several lessons. The sad part is that they will not be able to apply any of this to even the UEFA Cup as they will surely finish bottom of this group. Still it's not easy going head to head with their 3 group mates - boasting the best of 3 of the top leagues in Europe.

Since their 1 - 1 draw with Barcelona on Matchday 2 - Bremen has now scored 23 goals in 7 matches - including a thrashing of Bayern.

Bremen to finish second ? On this form - don't bet against it. Barcelona have their work cut out for them.

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Barcelona 2 - 2 Chelsea

So, Chelsea sewed up the group in this game. So, Barcelona have been left to fight it out with Bremen in their game for the other qualification spot.

I won't go into the match itself - it was typically thunderous with a plethora of bookings as Chelsea, inspired and instructed by Mourinho no doubt, brought all their cynical defensiveness into this game to halt a superior Barcelona team that seemed to be back on track. Plenty will be written about that. My main concern is - would Barcelona have been allowed 4 minutes of second half injury time to fashion an equalizer ? Does Chelsea's insidious financially muscled influence extend beyond the front gates of the UEFA HQ at Nyon ? I'd tend to say no - but after Moggipolli this summer, which keen football afficianadoes like myself had always suspected - anything is possible.

On the other hand - the format of the Champions' League ensure that we get to see a few of these matches every year. In fact it is worth sitting through the dreadfest that is say Anderlecht versus AEK for this fare. Charged, emotional, packed with some of the best talent the world has to offer while being coached by one of the world's best coaches and another bloke who knows who to defend his way to a title.

I have always respected Frank Riijkaard - first as a classic midfielder at Milan, then a calm mentor at Ajax and finally a surprisingly good coach at Barcelona - the latest in a long line of Dutch ones. However, like his predecessors, his empire seems to be crumbling after a couple of years of lustrous glory - his superstar studded dream team ebbing away - unable to motivate or lift itself from its current stupor.

While Cruyff's dream team came unstuck against a far superior Milan side in the 94 final - losing 4 - 0 - personal arrogance was their chief enemy. Half a decade later Louis Van Gaal's dream side came unstuck in the face of blinding ambition but the current malaise afflicting Barcelona is strange indeed. Surely the loss of Eto should not handicap them so, surely Rijkaard still has a plan ? Sadly, on the evidence displayed by him after the final whistle - I am not so sure anymore.

They started well; Deco driving in an early notch - and although the world's greatest limited player Frank Lampard evened things up - Eidur Gudjonsen then provided the perfect riposte to the diving slander initiated by the sideshow that is Mourinho, by putting Barcelona back into the lead. How then did they contrive to concede a late, late equalizer is beyond me. Frank must be crushed, Barcelona must be dismayed, the Catalan top brass shifting nervously in their beds, fearing if this is the start of the end of another Dutch led dream team. Meanwhile Real goes from stength to strength.

It should have been so different - and surely Barcelona have enough firepower to knock the stuffing out of Chelsea - but the addition of Ballack has added resilience and additional ballast (no pun intended) to this Chelski team. Although they look more boring with every passing game, they also look stronger and much as I hate to admit it - they have upset all the odds and comprehensively outfought Barcelona this year. What a sad day for football everywhere.

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How did I do ?

5 out of 8

Bayern and Roma let me down - playing at home against inferior opposition with every reason to go for a win. They drew. Valencia were away, so perhaps I should have had a little more faith in Shakhtar - ah well - the champions' league is not an even competition and neither are my picks.

The only game I picked to draw was the Barca - Chelski clash - but deep inside I was hoping Barca won.

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Tactic of the day:

Has to be the defensive 4-1-3-2 with an anchor sitting in front of the back four - worked well for Roma, PSV, Chelsea, Bayern, Sporting and Bremen - not so well for Barca and Bordeaux.

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Team of the day:

(4-1-3-2)
Julio Cesar; Zanetti, Van Buyten, Polga, Ayala; Simons; Frings, Gerrard, Deco; Garcia, Totti.