BackHeel90

SHOULD PENALTY SHOOT-OUTS BE BANNED?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 11:44:00 +0000

The Big Debate

Ever since FIFA introduced the idea of penalty shoot-outs in the 70s there has been debate whether or not this is a fair way to declare a winner. Penalties are based merely on luck and not skill or technique of a player. Many have opposed this but 45 years on it still stands.

Most argue that at times the better side throughout the 120minutes may lose on penalties and thus see this as being unfair. Back in 2012, FIFA president Sepp Blatter was looking for an alternative but nothing has been fruitful.

The truth is there is no alternative. I've heard people bring up ridiculous ideas like extra time should be increased until a winner emerges, truth is, the teams may play for another hour, maybe two or even three and there might still not be a winner. We should understand that the players are human, and when fatigue starts to creep in the higher chances of one getting injured. So the idea of extended extra time would be a complete failure in my opinion.

Playing a 2nd leg was one idea I backed for some time, but come to think of it, it may not be the answer either. The teams may still be deadlocked after the 90minutes of play which will lead to extra time and eventually penalties, so this would be nothing but delaying the outcome of a final people have waited so eagerly for.

The idea of analysing stats over 90 or 120 minutes would be so biased FIFA should not even consider it. Why is this? Yes one team may have more shots on target, possession and corners but again football is not all about attack attack attack! Defending is a huge part of the game and should be taken into account in such situations. Teams should only blame themselves for failing to take their chances and congratulate themselves on a job well done at the back.

I'm not for or against the idea of banishing penalty shoot-outs because it does have its pros and cons. Manchester United vs Arsenal FA cup final 2015 and Bayern Munich vs Chelsea UEFA Champions League Final not too long ago. These are two great examples where the better side over the 120minutes lost on shoot-outs. It is a shame seeing a team dominate their opponents all over the field but lose eventually but as I said, defending is also a part of the sport that should not be ignored.

If we look at this situation deeper and keenly you'll all find there is absolutely no fair alternative way that can be introduced. Yes penalty shoot-outs isn't a fair way of determining the.winner of the game if you're looking at it just from an "attacking" side. For all who are against penalty shoot-outs, take a seat and reflect that for one; the dominant side failed to take their chances and two; the opposition defended well, which is an important part of the game.

So my opinion to all of this is, fifa should not abolish penalty shoot-outs with the mere thought that the dominant attacking side may come out short but instead view the way I am, one side is dominant in attack while the other is dominant in defense.

THE INS AND OUT: MANCHESTER CITY AND LIVERPOOL.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 22:38:00 +0000

WHO SHOULD LIVERPOOL AND CITY BRING IN AND GET RID OFF TO CHALLENGE NEXT SEASON?

Both Liverpool and Manchester City had rather subdued campaigns, mostly Liverpool. Going from the highs of the Suarez era that saw the Reds finish 2nd to a miserable 6th place finish really sums it up. For City, inconsistency and poor results away from home was their undoing.

Both sides will definitely strengthen, but will they get their signings right? Brendan Rodgers will definitely be more cautious as he digs into the transfer market as a majority of his signings last summer were below average. Pellegrini will be looking to do away with dead wood and invite some fresh young talent into an aging City line up.

So who should both teams be looking at and who should they get rid of?

MANCHESTER CITY

Manuel Pellegrini has a lot of work to do in the transfer window. His aging squad need some fresh young blood and a replacement for the departing Yaya Toure who to be fair has looked a shadow of the player he was the previous seasons.

City's problem area is their backline, when Vincent Kompany is out or playing when not fully fit as he did against Manchester United, City struggle badly. Eliaquim Mangala has been disappointing, once the most talked about upcoming stars in his time at Porto now looks like a defender who can't tell his right from left. Martin Demichelis is aging and getting slower. The midfield looks good but with the departure of Toure, a replacement is needed, Fernando or Fernandinho are far away from being the dominant force Toure is. The forward line is fantastic, with Aguero, Bony, Dzeko, Jovetic and the returning Negredo all options.

Ins;

Mats Hummels/ Nicolas Otamendi/ Benedikt Howedes - All these three options should be a major upgrade to Mangala, no offense. Pellegrini should try get two central defenders in this summer. Hummels looks to be the defender on demand this summer with a host of English clubs after the German and with City's financial power they would definitely be top dogs in securing his signature.

Marco Reus - Jesus Navas and Samir Nasri haven't really sparkled this season, although I like Nasri, I think his time at Manchester is coming to an end. Lack of game time doesn't go down well with the French man. Pellegrini should attempt a player plus cash deal for Reus, Nasri/Navas plus about 15million pounds may land him the German international.

Isco - David Silva needs some competition for his place, and Isco looks a fine option to push Silva all the way. City at the moment lack creative midfielders with Silva the only one capable of shredding the ball through the hole of a needle 9/10 times of asking. Isco can be a back up or even a starter.

Moussa Sissoko - Who better to replace Yaya Toure than Sissoko. He's big, powerful, fast and is able to produce a Yaya Toure esque wrecking ball run if called upon. Sissoko's talent is at waste in Newcastle, it's about time he moved to a top 4 side.

Outs;

Martin Demichelis - His age is the main reason City have to do away with him and clear up some space in the roster and be in terms with the FFP rules.

Yaya Toure - The Ivorian has already made it clear he'll be leaving the Etihad this summer with Inter Milan chasing for his signature. His last campaign wasn't as spectacular as his previous seasons in the sky blue shirt. The city fans will definitely miss him.

Samir Nasri/ Jesus Navas - Navas hasn't really caught my eye at all this season and even in his past seasons with Sevilla. He is too predictable and doesn't have the trickery to go past players, his pace is a plus though. Nasri is great on his day but with lack of matches you wonder if he'll ever rekindle the form he had in Arsenal. Swap deal for Reus.

Stefan Jovetic/ Negredo/ Edin Dzeko - One of these three will definitely be seeing the exit door at the Etihad. Negredo most likely but I would totally disagree with that because he was exceptional before he got his injury prior to the World Cup. Jovetic in my opinion should be let to leave, lack of game time and his form isn't what it was when he was in Italy.

Probable Line up

4-2-3-1

Hart; Zabaleta, Kompany, Hummels, Kolarov; Fernando, Isco; Reus, Sissoko, Silva; Aguero.

Bench: Cabalero, Mangala, Otamendi, Fernandinho, Milner, Bony, Dzeko.

Squad Rating out of 10: 7.9

LIVERPOOL

The Reds have probably had the worst campaign from the top clubs. Much was expected from them after Suarez had guided them to a 2nd place finish the season before, but with the departure of the Uruguayan came the downfall of the Mersyside giants. A disappointing 6th place was all they could manage.

Brendan Rodgers should be the man to blame really, with all the money he got from the Suarez sale he decided to buy 6 or 7 mediocre players, not being harsh but that is what they are. He'll be looking to avoid the same mistake this time but with Liverpool not in the Champions League, you feel he'll have to settle for mediocre players once again.

The whole Liverpool squad needs a makeover from the defense all the way to the forward line and back to the bench. Only Henderson, Coutinho and Sturridge are confirmed starters.

Ins;

Benedikt Howedes/ Neven Subotic/ Ashley Williams - To be honest, Liverpool won't attract big names such as Mats Hummels so they'll have to settle for defenders in a lower tier. Howedes may be an interesting option but if any of the bigger clubs go for him then Liverpool will have to look elsewhere. Subotic is a decent defender and definitely better than what Liverpool have now but he tends to be rush at times and prone to error. Ashley Williams won't be an upgrade but an assurance buy. Rodgers should do all he can to snap Howedes.

Ilkay Gundogan - Rodgers should act quick with this, Dortmund had a terrible season and with Lopp leaving, trust a few big names will follow suit. Gundogan can give that Liverpool midfield a bit of spice and creativity that they awfully lack. With Manchester United and Arsenal rumored to be interested, it won't be easy for Rodgers.

Christoph Kramer - Liverpool lack a proper holding midfielder, in Kramer they get an World Cup winner with Germany and a player who has helped his current side Borussia Monchengladbach qualify for the Champions League. With Lucas far from his better days, this would be a good buy for the reds.

Julian Draxler - With Sterling nearing an exit from Anfiled if all the rumors are to be believed, Rodgers should use money from the Sterling sale wisely, Draxler is young and immensely talented and would fill that gap with ease. Rodgers should just hope Wenger isn't after the German.

Jackson Martinez/Christian Benteke/Danny Ings/Charlie Austin - The Reds are in need of a striker, with Sturridge constantly out and Balotelli hopeless infront of goal, two additions from the options would do Liverpool good. Unfortunately, Martinez is also been watched by Arsenal so that may be a tough one to crack for Rodgers and Benteke is been watched by a host of clubs bigger than Liverpool, so count that out as well. Ings and Austin both in for Liverpool would be job well done by Rodgers. They have both proven they can match up to the Premier League and are both goal scorers.

Outs;

Kolo Toure - He'll most probably be one of the players leaving this summer with no surprise at all. He's not played a whole lot and age isn't on his side either.

Glen Johnson - Lack of playing time coupled with niggling injuries here and there has seen him lose his spot in the side and probably his name on the Liverpool roster. He's served them well but his time is up at Anfield.

Jose Enrique - Another player who has seen injuries and lack of game time lose his spot on the team. I can't remember seeing Enrique make an appearance for Liverpool this season.

Joe Allen - Allen is a mediocre player and doesn't deserve to be playing every single week in a team of Liverpool's size. That just tells you how weak the squad depth is at Anfield. Allen should be sold as he is a waste of space and just not good enough.

Lucas Leiva - Once upon a time Lucas was hailed as one of the best defensive midfielders in England, now he doesn't even make the top 10 to be honest. He's been in and out of the team and Rodgers should cash in on him.

Mario Balotelli - Everything just went wrong for Super Mario this season. He didn't look the player that left City a while ago, he was completely horrendous. If Rodgers can get a buyer well and good, Balotelli needs to leave and probably return to Inter who are under Mancinc. He seems to play his best football under the Italian.

Rickie Lambert - I never really understood why Liverpool signed Lambert but all I know is that they should let go of him.

Fabio Borini - Borini hasn't had much game time, but I feel he can produce moments of magic. He is wasting himself in Liverpool and should move to a lesser side, the likes of Stoke or Swansea for him to discover his best football.

Probable Line up

4-2-3-1

Mignolet; Can, Skrtel, Howedes, Moreno; Henderson, Kramer; Coutinho, Gundogan, Draxler; Sturridge.

Bench - Jones, Sakho, Lovren, Lallana, Markovic, Ings, Austin.

Squad rating out of 10: 7.2

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: THE SEASON THAT WAS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 21:13:00 +0000

ANOTHER SEASON GOES BY!

Gutted is the feeling all football fans will be going through for the next 11 weeks or so. No Premier League football to enjoy on the weekends as I sip a cold glass of my favorite beer cheering my team on. All we have before us is the Copa America which should be interesting and the Champions League final coming up this Saturday.......oh! and not to forget, transfer window kicks in, probably the only exciting bit of a football-less period.

Besides all that, this season would have been amazing if only Mourinho and his boys would have tagged along with the rest of the bunch but instead they ran away with it. Congratulations to the 'boring' champions.

So what moments caught my eye this season? I'm going to break it down and forgive me if Arsenal frequent, I probably watched all their matches this season.

Match of the Season

Tottenham 5 - 3 Chelsea

Chelsea were on a roll at this stage of the season, no one so this coming at all. Spurs were fantastic and tore apart Chelsea's defense. Terry, Cahill and Ivanovic always getting the plaudits for their stern and no nonsense style of defending were torn to mere shreds by Kane and his boys. For once this past campaign Mourinho elected to attack and not sit back and hold on for a draw or 1-0 scoreline. Fantastic match it was.

Team of the Season

Southampton

I'm sure most neutrals would pick The Saints as their team of the season. They started off brilliantly and at one point looked like they would finish in the top 4. All the big boys feared facing them. As the season progressed they kinda tired, fatigued and they dropped miserably to 7th spot where they eventually finished. Kudos to Ronald Koeman for pushing Spurs and Liverpool all the way.

If Koeman can keep hold of this squad and add more quality around the pitch, they'll definitely be making a whole lot of noise next season.

Signing of the Season

Alexis Sanchez

Please, we all have to bow down to this lad and have a moment of silence for all the magic he pulled this season. To me the best player in the Premier League currently and the only reason he didn't win the PFA player of the year is because Arsenal weren't top but all in all he beat Aguero and Hazard to the PFA fans player of the year. He had to sign out this season with a screamer in the FA cup final. Absolutely amazing! Hope he carries this form into next season.

Flop of the Season

Angel Di Maria

Before Manchester United fans start bashing me, hear me out. The only reason his my flop of the season is because I expected wonders from him but he just didn't show up. I remember watching him play for Real in the Champions League final against Atletico and he was brilliant, then watched him play a friendly for Argentina against Germany and he tore the Germans apart.

He started off the season quite okay, his goal against Leicester City had me drooling for a moment but after that it all went haywire for the Argentine from then on. His miss against Arsenal at the Emirates just sums his whole season into one. He flopped and flopped BAD!

Manager of the Season

Ronald Koeman

It had to be him surely. With so little resources he's done a very good job at Southampton and maybe deserved more than a 7th spot finish. He lost good talent in the summer transfer window but replaced well. Graziano Pelle chipped in with the goals that Lambert offered the season before, Shane Long and Mane filled the void left by Lallana and Fonte and Alderweireld made the Saints fans forget about Dejan Lovren. If he can do this with Southampton, what would he do if he got a club with more resources?!

Most Improved Player

Francis Coquelin

Francis Coquelin, where would Arsenal be without you. Brought back from his loan spell in Charlton due to an injury crisis, Coquelin took that chance with aplomb. Arsenal lacked a player with a bit of bite and aggression, a player that can intercept and break up play, but when he arrived, all that changed. Coquelin bossed the likes of Silva, Fellaini and even Coutinho, not only that, he stats are way better than that of Nemanja Matic the 'so-called' best midfielder in the Premier League. No chance Matic!

Breakthrough Player of the Season

Harry Kane

Is anyone questioning this decision? You better not. Harry Kane has thrived in a position Emmanuel Adebayor and Roberto Soldado have miserably failed in and has grabbed that center forward role by the throat. He scored important goals for Spurs and he is the reason spurs claimed 5th spot. Without his goals, Spurs would probably be meandering in mid-table with the likes of Stoke and Swansea.
Keep it up lad!

Goal of the Season

Graziano Pelle vs QPR

Does anyone remember this beauty from Pelle earlier in the season when Southampton beat QPR 2-1? You probably do because this is as good an overhead kick goal you'll see for sometime. the technique, timing and direction were spot on. Beauty from Graziano Pelle.

THE INS AND OUTS: MAN UNITED AND ARSENAL.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 May 2015 20:47:00 +0000

CHALLENGERS LOOK TO STRENGTHEN FOR NEXT SEASON.

The 2014/15 season comes to a climax this weekend, Chelsea already crowned champions and the top four spots determined, we can all gear up for two and half months or season without competitive football. We still do have the FA cup and Champions League final to look forward to, if you are an Arsenal, Villa, Barcelona and Juventus fan.

For the coming weeks I'll be digging in to all the transfer rumors and completed deals but for now I'll be taking a look at next seasons challengers, Manchester city, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and maybe Southampton or Everton. How should they approach the transfer market and which players should they add and get rid of to mount a serious challenge next season.

United and Arsenal are the teams on focus today. The battle at Old Trafford was rather stale and disappointing to some extent. Both sides have already secured Champions League football for next season, so there wasn't really much to play for. A victory for United would have lifted them a point above Arsenal who do have a game in hand though, while a victory for Arsenal would have put them in prime position for 2nd spot.

A draw was a fair result given the balance of play, United dominated the 1st half, the second 45 minutes belonged to Arsenal.

MANCHESTER UNITED

United have had an up and down season and a relatively lucky to have achieved Champions League football for next season. The Red Devils fans will have loads of thanks to goalkeeper David De Gea as his heroics in numerous matches have them where they are now.

Performances have been flat and have lacked a killer edge, defense to shaky and star players Di Maria and RVP seem lost in the theater of dreams. Shuffling formation week in hasn't helped either.

So what do United really need to be taken more serious next season? Memphis Depay has already signed from PSV, I see this as very unnecessary. Mata, Di Maria, Young, Januzaj and Valencia can all operate in a similar position, unless it means one will be departing.

Defense is the major problem at United, definitely there is need for at least two world class defenders and there is no surprise they have been constantly linked with Mat Hummels. The midfield looks okay but no world class, Carrick is too injury prone, Di Maria as I said looks completely lost, Mata is world class but inconsistent for me and Daley Blind is an average player at best. The forward line is another problem, Rooney aside, RVP's days are numbered and with consistent injury problems he looks done for, and the on-loan man Falcao has been a disappointment.

Ins;

Mat Hummels - The German center back will definitely be available this season and with a host of clubs chasing his signature, Louis Van Gaal will have to act quick. He'll definitely bring some assurance and leadership that United lack in the back.

Dante - The Brazilian has found himself warming the bench at the Allianz ever since the arrival of Benatia and will probably be looking for a move away. If Bayern make him available United should pounce. Whether he'll be willing to move to United is another story, but he is a way better defender than what United have at the moment.

Petr Cech/Asmir Begovic - United will have huge problems if David De Gea leaves for Madrid. Top keepers are hard to find, but in Cech you get a wolrd class keeper who is heading for the exit door at Chelsea. No chance Mourinho is letting him join a rival club. Begovic has been outstanding for Stoke and it's about time he got a move to a bigger club.

Ilkay Gundogan - Another Dortmund player on several clubs radar. His injury record may stop teams signing the talented German, who once tore apart Manchester City's defense with sleek top draw passing. I doubt LVG will be after the German though.

Jackson Martinez/Gareth Bale/Charlie Austin/Harry Kane/Danny Ings - United are in desperate need of a proven goalscorer. So much talk of Bale joining the red half of Manchester but it's a move I don't see happening unless De Gea goes the opposite direction which to me doesn't look like happening. Harry Kane would be the obvious pick from the remaining names, not that he is better than Martinez, no, no, no, he's just more proven to play in England. Do I see it happening? No. Austin or Ings could be good back to Rooney, either would fit in and at a cheap price.

Outs;

Robin Van Persie - The flying dutchman's performances have dropped remarkably this season and coupled with his injury worries and age, RVP is heading for the exit at Old Trafford. He has failed miserably this season and would probably be heading back to Netherlands or a much lower level team.

Radamael Falcao - An unsuccessful loan spell will see the Colombian head back to Monaco. Just like RVP, he has failed to impress and has constant knee problems. I don't see Van Gaal keeping him at United permanently.

Rafael - Injury has kept him out for a while, and with Valencia cementing the right back position and at least two defenders coming in, it will be hard for the Brazilian to get back in the team and he is the most likely option to depart.

Adnan Januzaj - The young Belgian is full of talent, but is being wasted by LVG. The signing of Depay means more competition in that position. Perhaps a loan spell away for next season will be the best option.

4-2-3-1: De Gea; Valencia, Hummels, Rojo, Shaw; Carrick, Herrera; Depay, Fellaini, Young; Rooney.

Bench: Valdes, Smalling, Jones, Blind, Mata, Di Maria, Austin.

Squad rating out of 10: 7.0

The bench doesn't look to fancy to be honest with only Mata and Di Maria stand out names and the starting 11 still just doesn't look like it has enough to mount a serious challenge. With this squad United will probably be fighting for 4th spot with Liverpool if they sign well and Spurs.

ARSENAL

The Gunners have had a fantastic second half of the season, and will be looking to strengthen a few areas before the start of next season. The first half of the season was too inconsistent, and at that point is when they surrendered the title to Chelsea.

As Mourinho put it, Arsenal aren't too far from challenging Chelsea, a couple of signings will do the trick for Wenger.

On their game they are absolutely breathtaking and tantalizing. The up for Arsenal will be the rise in form of Mesut Ozil. He's been a joy to watch and he seems to have a good understanding with Sanchez and Cazorla.

So what do Arsenal need to be regarded as challengers next season? Ospina hasn't been bad but he isn't in the level of De Gea, Courtois or Hart. The back line seems to be a bit shaky at times, a replacement for Mertesacker would probably tighten the defense. A defensive midfielder to provide competition for the impressive Coquelin would also help matters and a different kind of striker to compete with Giroud.

Ins;

Asmir Begovic/Steve Mandanda - Petr Cech will be available but we all know Mourinho won't sell him to a rival club. Between Begovic and Mandanda, I would go for the Marseille stopper. He was recently named in the Ligue 1 team of the year and has proven himself time and time again.

Mat Hummels/Benedikt Howedes - Wenger will have to compete with a host of clubs for Hummels signature, if he losses out option B should be Hummels German teammate Howedes. With a strong German link at the Emirates, persuading either of the two shouldn't be that hard. Hummels link to Manchester United seems to be stronger and stronger each day, so Howedes would be the more likely.

Morgan Schniederlin/Ilkay Gundogan/William Carvalho - Arsenal need a holding midfielder just to provide some competition and back up to Coquelin. I don't see Gundogan as being a holding midfielder so I'll dismiss him. Schniederlin is the best fit for Arsenal and he has Premier League experience. Carvalho is a good option but I'd stick with Morgan.

Jackson Martinez/Antonio Lacazette - Arsenal need a different kind of striker to Giroud. Giroud has been impressive but doesn't have back-up or competition for his place. Welbeck doesn't seem to be an out and out striker and Walcott is more explosive out on the wing. Martinez has the pace that Giroud lacks, he also has a physical presence. Lacazette won Ligue 1 player of the year but he just seems like another Walcott and Welbeck, he posses pace just like the two Englishmen but lacks in physicality.

Pedro/Marco Reus - Rumors of Pedro to Arsenal have been gathering steam and it looks almost likely he'll be at the Emirates next season, and with the right wing position up for grabs he'll surely make a case to grab it by the neck. Marco Reus the man I'd love to see in an Arsenal jersey. It looks very unlikely as he signed a new contract but with Klopp gone you never know.

Outs;

Mikel Arteta - Arteta has served his time at the Emirates and it would be best for him to move on. With an array of talent in central midfield, Arteta is down the pecking order.

Mathieu Flamini - He'll surely be departing if Wenger brings in another holding midfielder, he's played his part but just like Arteta, game time should be a problem if additions are made at the Emirates.

Wojiech Szczesny - He's had a disappointing season and may see himself as third choice if a new world class keeper is brought in. He's probably too good to be a third choice keeper so moving on would do him good for his international place as Lukas Fabianski has been outstanding for Swansea.

Abou Diaby - Sad to say, but it's about time Wenger gave up on Diaby. He does have the talent and is a personal favorite of mine when fit and on his game.

4-2-3-1: Mandanda; Bellerin/Debuchy, Howedes, Koscielny, Monreal; Schniederlin/Coquelin, Cazorla; Pedro, Ozil, Sanchez; Martinez.

Bench:Ospina, Mertesacker, Wilshere, Ramsey, Chamberlain, Walcott, Giroud.

Squad rating out of 10: 8

The squad looks complete and the depth on the bench is outstanding. With a squad like this Wenger should surely be battling with Chelsea and Manchester City next season for the title.

BARCA IN, BAYERN OUT!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 May 2015 09:43:00 +0000

CATALANS SEE OFF THE BAVARIANS EN ROUTE TO BERLIN.

Bayern have been here before obviously, undoubtedly they've been here before this season: Porto drove 3-1 from their quarter-final first leg, just to be met with a Bavarian lightning war in the return leg at the Allianz arena.

Something comparative was required at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening, sadly for the Bavarians, it will be the Spanish class pioneers going to the European Cup final, instead of the German champions.

A Neymar twofold helped Barcelona progress to their first Champions League final following 2011 in spite of a 3-2 second-leg semi-final defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

A Lionel Messi brace and Neymar's strike at Camp Nou last Wednesday had given the Liga pioneers a 3-0 lead after the first leg and, in spite of a vivacious presentation, Bayern were not able to finish a wonderful fightback in the return leg.

Mehdi Benatia's initial header gave Bayern hope, however Pep Guardiola depicted his previous club Barca as the best counter-attacking group on the planet on the ball and they satisfied that charging at the Allianz Arena.

Luis Suarez laid on two goals for Neymar - who now has 37 for the season and has scored in his previous seven matches - in the first half and, despite the fact that Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller gave the Bundesliga champions triumph on the night, the jpb had been finished by Barca in the first leg.

It was the guests' first loss since February and they had not yielded for more than 10 hours before Tuesday's encounter, yet they stay on course for a celebrated treble in Luis Enrique's first season in control, while Bayern have smashed out in the semi-finals two years running under Guardiola.

Whether it be Juventus or an el Clasico standoff with Real Madrid in the final, Barca will go in top picks and rightly so.

EPL WEEK 36: THE SATURDAY THAT WAS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 May 2015 14:33:00 +0000

UNITED HOLD ON FOR THREE, STOKE BLOW AWAY SPURS AND LEICESTER WIN AGAIN.

LEICESTER CITY 2 - 0 SOUTHAMPTON

Riyad Mahrez's first goals since December proceeded with Leicester City's striking Premier League recovery with a 2-0 triumph over Southampton.

Algeria winger Mahrez struck twice amid the first half to excite a rowdy King Power Stadium and secure a 6th win in seven matches for Leicester.

City's triumph served to affirm relegation for Burnley, regardless of the 1-0 win at third-bottom Hull City, who are three points behind 15th placed Leicester with two matches to play.

For Southampton, another dreary display implied a 6th loss in their previous 11 matches, in spite of the fact that thrashing for Tottenham at Stoke City implies Ronald Koeman's group stay one point short of automatic qualification for the UEFA Europa League

Paulo Gazzaniga made his first start of the season in goal as one of four changes by Koeman, while Nigel Pearson stayed with the same Leicester XI that thoroughly beat Newcastle United a weekend ago.

Leicester's recently discovered defensive strength guaranteed Southampton delighted a couple of sights of goal amid an all the more even second half, albeit Kasper Schmeichel was at full-extend to keep a plunging 20-yard shot from Mane inside the last 20 minutes.

STOKE 3 - 0 TOTTENHAM

Stoke City destroyed Tottenham's hopes of a top four spot as they equalled their best points total in the Premier League with a 3-0 triumph on Saturday.

Last season's pull of 50 points was coordinated as goals from Charlie Adam, Steven N'Zonzi and Mame Biram Diouf topped a noteworthy presentation from Mark Hughes' side.

Adam broke the halt following 21 minutes with a short proximity header after poor cautious work from Jan Vertonghen, and N'Zonzi multiplied the lead after another Tottenham mistake including Hugo Lloris and Eric Dier.

Spurs' hopes of a comeback were dashed after 50 minutes as Vlad Chiriches turned into the seventh player to be given red in as many encounters between the two sides at the Britannia Stadium.

With a man short, Tottenham had no solution for Stoke's dynamic execution, Diouf broadening their preference with four minutes to play.

Thrashing mathematically closes any chances that Tottenham had of completing in the Uefa Champions League spots, Mauricio Pochettino will need to settle for an Europa League spot, best case scenario.

EVERTON 0 - 2 SUNDERLAND

Fortune blessed Sunderland as Danny Graham and Jermain Defoe both scored deflected goals to move the Black Cats out of the relegation zone with a hard-battled triumph over Everton.

Graham has persevered through a generally hopeless two years since moving to the Stadium of Light from Swansea City, yet his telling touch on Jordi Gomez's drive put Sunderland ahead after they had splashed up enormous pressure from the hosts.

Dick Advocaat had focused on a point prematch, with his set-up apparently backing that up, Defoe playing the first half as an assistant right back to sum up Sunderland's methodology.

James McCarthy hit the post with a well-hit shot soon after Graham's goal, yet Defoe himself was the recipient of more penalty box pinball to heap weight on Sunderland's immediate opponents at the bottom.

Having pulled themselves from the flame in the diminishing ashes of last season, Sunderland again have an awesome shot of securing top-flight status for another season.

Everton's own desires for rescuing a top 10 completion from their disillusioning season are blurring after a second defeat in a row.

CRYSTAL PALACE 1 - 2 MANCHESTER UNITED

Manchester United turned out 2-1 victors after an enthralling Premier League duel with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday night, putting them on the cusp of Champions League qualification.

Louis van Gaal's side led the halfway through the first half when Scott Dann was questionably rebuffed for a handball, Juan Mata slotting home the spot kick.

Palace gained confidence as the match went on, nonetheless, and equalised after the break when Jason Puncheon's beautiful free kick took a deflection off Daley Blind on it's way past David de Gea.

De Gea made a radiant stop to deny Glenn Murray as the match got more profound into the second half and his versatility was remunerated when inverse number Julian Speroni's horrendous late surge off his line late made room for Marouane Fellaini to complete off Ashley Young's cross.

OTHER RESULTS

ASTON VILLA 1 - 0 WEST HAM

HULL 0 - 1 BURNLEY

NEWCASTLE 1 - 1 WEST BROM

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL 1ST LEG: HOW IT HAPPENED.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 May 2015 13:49:00 +0000

MESSI DESTROYS BAYERN, THE OLD LADY TAKE A LEAD TO THE BERNABEU.

Four teams left standing to the road to Berlin, Barcelona will take a healthy lead to Bayern after a 15minute cameo that Messi absolutely dazzled the Bavarians defense. Underdogs Juventus, have a slight advantage heading into the second leg at the Bernabeu, but the tie is far from over.

BARCELONA 3 - 0 BAYERN MUNICH

Two moments of enchantment from Lionel Messi and a late goal from Neymar gave Barcelona a 3-0 win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The conflict at Camp Nou denoted the first time since his departure from Barca in 2012 that Pep Guardiola had met the group he prompted 14 noteworthy trophies in four years.

Guardiola had marked Messi "relentless" in the build up to the match and his words demonstrated prophetic as Messi destroyed Bayern with two sublime late goals.

Having seen Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer disappoint Barca for a significant part of the match, the two sides looked set to go to the Allianz Arena one week from now with the tie finely balanced at 0-0.

However, Messi, playing in his 100th European game, delivered another shining showcase to place Barca in summon, breaking the deadlock with a grating 77th-minute opener.

What's more, the Argentina forward multiplied his count after three minutes with a radiant solo goal before a stoppage time third from Neymar viably finished the tie as Barca went somehow to picking up a measure of vengeance for the 7-0 aggregate misfortune to Bayern at the same stage two years back.

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 REAL MADRID

Carlos Tevez's penalty gave Juventus an essential lead as they beat Real Madrid 2-1 in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

Juve, delegated Serie A champions for a fourth year consecutively on Saturday, were compensated for a splendid begin when previous Real striker Alvaro Morata opened the scoring from short proximity in Turin.

Massimiliano Allegri's side were soon pegged back, however, as Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored three times against Juve in last season's group stages, headed home a short proximity equalizer from James Rodriguez's great cross.

Holders Real squandered an extraordinary opportunity presently before the break when Rodriguez by one means or another headed against the crossbar from three yards with the goal unguarded.

That miss at last proved costly as Juve were granted a penalty just before the hour when Dani Carvajal felled Tevez, and the Argentina forward determinedly dispatched his spot-kick.

Juve consequently hold a slight advantage going into the second leg next week in Madrid, despite the fact that Ronaldo's away goal, his 76th in the Champions League, equal with his extraordinary opponent Lionel Messi, could demonstrate significant.

'BORING' CHELSEA CHAMPIONS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 May 2015 10:19:00 +0000

'BORING' 'BORING' CROWNED CHAMPIONS WITH THREE GAMES TO GO.

Congratulations to Chelsea football club on their title win with three games to spare. No doubt they fully deserve it given their performances especially in the first half of the season, they were consistent as their title rivals were nothing close to consistent.

Jose Mourinho always delivers, hate him or love him, he is a master in winning titles. He's done it with every team his managed, Porto, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and now again at Chelsea. Let's applaud the special one please.......or should we not?

This Chelsea team has depth and a variety of options in every position, something that the likes of Arsenal, City and in particular Liverpool and United lack. As an Arsenal supporter, the disgust running down my throat in admitting we lack depth is pinching, come on someone put me out of this misery.

The Blues have been top of the table for 250 so days. Yes 250! So what were their rivals actually playing for this season? Mourinho's men have absolutely blown their rivals away, Arsenal and United had an inconsistent first half of the season, City began to stutter late on and for Liverpool, well, I don't get why they are even considered title challengers with the mediocre squad they have.

Now let me go into the exciting part of this article, 'boring' 'boring' were the chants doing rounds at the Emirates when Chelsea visited not too long ago. And I couldn't agree more. Chelsea are a boring side to watch, and with all the quality they possess in their line up, the likes of Hazard, Oscar, Willian and especially Fabregas who applied his trade in two teams, Arsenal and Barcelona that have mastered tiki-taka football with perfection, we all expect a bit of entertaining football from the Blues surely.

Don't get me wrong, defending is part of the game as well, and with a shaky back line, the risk of conceding goals is very high. But for Mourinho's men, the talent that oozes in the squad can be spotted from miles away. The players are more than capable of defending with the ball at their feet rather than surrendering possession and parking the bus for 90 minutes. What I mean is this, the best form of defense is attack. Just like Barcelona do it, keep the ball, play beautiful football and as long as the opposition don't get hold of the ball, there's no danger of conceding.

So Jose, why not try keeping the ball and having a go at your opponent instead of torturing as football lovers with your usual 9-1 formation. Let me not blame Mourinho for Chelsea's boring brand of football because I can't recall a time Chelsea ever did entertain. Anyway, yapping about 'boring' 'boring' Chelsea won't alter that they are already champions. So maybe Wenger, Pellegrini and Louis Van Gaal should take notes, boring football wins you titles in England.

For one, Arsene Wenger won't change his brand of football, never ever and I'm glad about that. Pellegrini and Van Gaal as well don't look to be going down Mourinho's route. City, Arsenal and United all do play better football than Chelsea, but then where did they lose it.

The blue have of Manchester have given us something to familiar to work with, it's craved out on a rock right in front of us. City are horrendous away from the Etihad, their away form really let them down bad. To add to that, the squad is aging, Yaya Toure is far from the Yaya of last season, Aguero should try stay fit a whole season and Silva needs more Silvas around him, apart from Nasri in the midfield and to some extent Milner, the rest aren't good enough. Their holding midfielders Fernando and Fernandinho are nowhere near the class of Matic or even Coquelin funny enough. The defense needs some tweaking, a Hummels beside Kompany would sort their problems.

Arsenal, Arsenal my beloved Arsenal. If they would have started the season they way they are finishing it, Chelsea would have to wait longer before they are crowned champions. The Gunners story is all too familiar, throw them at the Britannia stadium, Stamford bridge and it's almost a guarantee Wenger's men won't take a point leave alone three. Kick and shove and they find it difficult to cope. They need a bit of aggression and steel to go with their beautiful football.

For United, the red half of Manchester, they'd been riding their lack for a long long time, and probably are lucky to be where they are. lack doesn't last for long and of late United have been found wanting, three defeats in a row says it all, they are definitely out of the race for second spot and are now trying to crawl their way to the finish line. Crystal Palace in the weekend, United fans may be facing another defeat. United to me are kind of like Liverpool, too many mediocre players, and their star players aren't performing at all. RVP, Falcao and Di Maria all seem lost.

Once again congratulations to the boring team for winning the title, and I hope all Chelsea fans watched the game between Barca and Bayern last night, yes, that's how football should be played, both teams positive and not relying on defending. I just have to mention this, Messi's second goal was a gem, take a bow for the Argentine man.

So Mourinho, change your ways and lose the 'boring' tag.

EPL Week 35: SUNDAY PREVIEW.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 May 2015 11:12:00 +0000

THE BLUES CAN BE CROWNED CHAMPIONS TODAY AND CITY VISIT WHITE HART LANE.

CHELSEA VS CRYSTAL PALACE

Chelsea have been head and shoulders over their opponents in the pursuit for the title this season and they could have it wrapped up with three games left.

The Blues enter this weekend's match 13 points clear and requiring three points to seal a first title in five years.

A triumph would take them to 83 points, which is only three points less than they amassed when they last made title progress in the 2009/10 season.

Chelsea's 3-1 triumph over Leicester City on Wednesday through second-half goals from Didier Drogba, John Terry and Ramires was their 14th game without defeat in the Premier League.

Palace will get to be simply the third team this season to beat Chelsea if fruitful, after only Newcastle and Tottenham, however make a beeline for Stamford Bridge on the back of two straight thrashings. Alan Pardew has won four of his last six Premier League coordinates as a resistance mentor against Chelsea.

Diego Costa will miss the match and may not be included again this season if the Blues win the Premier League title on Sunday.

Loic Remy has returned from a calf injury, while Thibaut Courtois could return in after a minor hip issue.

TOTTENHAM VS MANCHESTER CITY

Manchester City will look to boost their hopes of completing second in the Premier League when they go to Tottenham.

City's title guard could be over before they commence at White Hart Lane if Chelsea beat Crystal Palace earlier on Sunday however Manuel Pellegrini demands that they are centered around completing the battle on a positive note.

Their away shape will need to change if the Chilean is to get his wish, given that City have lost their last four matches away from the Etihad, a run that has permitted Arsenal and Manchester United to close in on them.

Arsenal are just behind City on goal difference and have played a game less, while United could have jumped their cross town rivals with triumph over West Brom on Saturday, putting further accentuation on beating Tottenham.

The last three games between the two sides has seen a lot of goals, with no less than five in every encounter, City winning each of the three and scoring 15..

Mauricio Pochettino will be concerned by Tottenham's poor record against Pellegrini's side, given their pursuit for an European place against Southampton and Liverpool.

Pochettino affirmed that Danny Rose has come back from a hamstring and could be involved but Ben Davies (shoulder) and Kyle Walker (foot) are both out.

City will be without powerful midfielder Yaya Toure after he was precluded with a hamstring issue, joining captain Vincent Kompany (thigh) and forward Stevan Jovetic on the sidelines.

EPL Week 35: SATURDAY PREVIEW.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 01 May 2015 11:23:00 +0000

THE BATTLE FOR SURVIVAL HEATS UP, SHERWOOD TACKLES MARTINEZ AND UNITED WELCOME ALBION.

With just four games left, the battle to stay up in the Premier League has just intensified. Leicester city take on a Newcastle side on the slide towards the wrong end of the table looking to pick up their fourth victory in five games. QPR have to navigate their way through a tough opposition in the form of Liverpool at anfield while Sunderland, Burnley and West Brom all face tough tests in their bids for survival.

ASTON VILLA VS EVERTON

Aston Villa proceed with their fight for Premier League survival when they play host to Everton one of the in-form sides in the division on Saturday.

The FA Cup finalists are two points above the relegation zone with four games of the season remaining, the first of which is the visit of an Everton side that is unbeaten in six outings.

Tim Sherwood was appreciating a somewhat decent April until this week. The previous Tottenham Hotspur manager had made a delightful and triumphant come back to White Hart Lane and drove Villa into the FA Cup final with triumph over Liverpool at Wembley.

On the other hand, results have not striven for the Villans throughout the most recent couple of days. Either side of them being beaten late by Manchester City, they saw Leicester make up ground on them and Hull City hop above them in the table.

A weekend ago's persuading 3-0 triumph over Manchester United was most likely the highlight of what has generally been a baffling season for the Toffees.

They were in control through and through against Louis van Gaal's men as James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas goals saw the Merseysiders record their greatest win over their North-West opponents in 23 years.

The three points took Roberto Martinez's men into the top half of the table for the first time this season and extended their unbeaten streak to six matches. They have likewise kept three clean sheets in succession at Goodison Park.

Everton's Bryan Oviedo has been precluded for the season in the wake of sustaining a metatarsal injury in training. Darron Gibson, Tony Hibbert and Steven Pienaar are likewise sidelined, yet Martinez would have been unrealistic to roll out any changes.

Gabriel Agbonlahor and Alan Hutton might likewise be in contention relying upon the aftereffects of their late fitness tests. On the other hand, defenders Nathan Baker and Ciaran Clark are both missing and subsequently Jores Okore will proceed alongside Ron Vlaar.

LIVERPOOL VS QPR

Chris Ramsey says that QPR must gain from Hull City's exploits this week in front of their trek to Liverpool on Saturday.

Brendan Rodgers' side were beaten 1-0 at the KC Stadium on Tuesday to empty their Champions League desires and Ramsey trusts that his side can support their survival trusts with a comparable presentation.

QPR have just endured one thrashing in their last four Premier League matches, gathering five points from a potential 12, moving them within four points of security in the drop zone.

A trip to Liverpool is the first of two dubious assignments out and about for Ramsey's side – they go to Manchester City the weekend after – before they confront kindred strugglers Newcastle and Leicester City.

Some of Ramsey's conviction will originate from QPR's courageous endeavors against Liverpool prior in the season when, notwithstanding losing 3-2, they verged on grabbing a draw. Four goals in the end minutes at Loftus Road saw the Reds discard a point as Steven Caulker's own goal gave the Reds a dramatic win. Much has changed from that point forward, however, with QPR issuing themselves a shot of survival and Liverpool falling endlessly in the race for a top four spot.

Rout at Hull was the third in five excursions for Rodgers' men, deserting them seven points from fourth place Manchester United. With Tottenham and Southampton still solidly in the race for an Europa League place, Liverpool can't stand to drop any more points.

With Daniel Sturridge effectively discounted and Mario Balotelli an uncertainty in the wake of managing a sliced foot against Hull, there was some uplifting news for Rodgers on Thursday, however, as Lucas Leiva and Alberto Moreno came back to first team training.

Rio Ferdinand is back in contention for QPR after a spate of injuries in the most recent month however the defender will have fitness checks before the excursion north. Striker Bobby Zamora is to be available regardless of nursing a hip problem, while Leroy Fer is fit in the wake of recuperating from a knee injury.

SUNDERLAND VS SOUTHAMPTON

Ronald Koeman does not anticipate that Sunderland's players will be as liberal on Saturday as they were in October, when Southampton cavorted to a 8-0 win in the Premier League.

Own goals from Santiago Vergini, Liam Bridcutt and Patrick van Aanholt topped a hopeless day at St Mary's Stadium for Sunderland under previous manager Gus Poyet, with Will Buckley and Vito Mannone likewise at flaw.

That denoted the least point of a baffling battle for third bottom Sunderland that has them dug in the relegation zone as Southampton get ready to make the trip for the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Dick Advocaat succeeded Poyet in March however has won quite recently once – against Newcastle – in the four matches that he has supervised.

Southampton, who are seventh, are as yet pushing for an European place, regardless of a drop in form lately, and Koeman realizes that his group will need to buckle down at Sunderland instead of depend on defensive mix-ups.

With Sunderland set to face Arsenal and Chelsea away amid the last week of the season, Advocaat's side needn't bother with helping to remember the significance of the forthcoming games against Southampton, Everton and kindred strugglers Leicester City.

Southampton have been hit by the news that midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin will probably miss whatever is left of the season with a knee ligament damage, while Dusan Tadic (groin) is additionally sidelined.

Advocaat has no new injuries regardless of John O'Shea enduring facial injuries in the 1-1 draw at Stoke City last time out, so the hosts are liable to be without Steven Fletcher, Ricky Alvarez, Wes Brown and Emanuele Giaccherini.

MANCHESTER UNITED VS WEST BROM

Manchester United welcome West Brom on Saturday looking to dodge a third straight Premier League loss however may be without captain Wayne Rooney.

Disappointing losses to Chelsea and Everton have hampered United's endeavors to guarantee automatic progression for the Champions League, with Rooney picking up a knee injury in the game against his previous club.

United managed majority of possesion at both Stamford Bridge and Goodison however were hit clinically on the counter at both venues.

With Tony Pulis' men likewise liable to sit deep in their offer to claim points, United face an examination of their attacking ability and the absence of their top scorer would represent a blow.

Radamel Falcao would likely be the man tasked with supplanting Rooney, as Robin van Persie and Adnan Januzaj are still trying to work their way back to full fitness.

After consecutive thrashings by strugglers QPR and Leicester City, West Brom have taken four points off Crystal Palace and Liverpool.

Saturday's guests to Old Trafford have effectively bettered their 36-point pull from last season and guaranteed their Premier League status for next term on account of a turnaround in fortunes under Pulis.

OTHER FIXTURES;

Leicester City vs Newcastle United

Swansea vs Stoke

West Ham vs Burnley

WHERE WOULD THEY BE IF IT WEREN'T FOR INJURIES?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 13:53:00 +0000

THESE PLAYERS HAVE BEEN PLAGUED BY INJURIES BUT HOW FAR WOULD THEY BE NOW?

Injuries are part of the game and can't be avoided, long term injuries and short term injuries. I'd like to think that everyone's body reacts differently to an injury and some take a longer time recovering than others.

In the world of football we've seen a number of players retire due to injuries they just can't overcome, Owen Hargreaves for example. The former Bayern Munich and Manchester United star quit the game at the age of 31 back in 2012. He only managed 27 league appearances in four seasons at United, a period in which Hargreaves was riddled with tendonitis and knee injuries.

It's a shame to see great players having to retire due to niggling injuries they can't shake off no matter how hard they train or work on it. So I've put up a list of players that I feel would be exceptional players today if it weren't for injury problems.

Marco Reus

Reus has it all, pace, technique, dribbling skills, set-piece specialist and the ability to strike the ball from distance. To add to that he is versatile, operating out on the flanks, behind the striker or even as a lone striker and in all positions he is effective.

He missed the World Cup in Brazil and what a pity it was as I was looking forward to seeing my favorite player in the world mix it up with the very best. Only 25 years of age, he definitely has another World Cup or two under his belt, and the chance to claim his spot amongst the world's finest.

There's no doubt in anyone's mind that Marco Reus would be a world beater by now. Yes, in some way he is but I'm talking about being compared with the worlds best Ronaldo and Messi, that's how good I think the German really is.

A fit Reus would fall into my top 5 players today. I see him joining a bigger club in the near future, maybe Real Madrid if all the rumors of Bale leaving are to be believed, then he'll fit into the position seamlessly, or Wenger could sign him as a replacement for Walcott which will be a massive upgrade.

Robin Van Persie

Robin Van Persie, this guy needs no introduction really, if you're a lover of the English Premier League you definitely know what RVP is all about. He's deadly left foot stands out from the rest and his awareness and attacking positioning is up their with the very best.

RVP has only managed to put in two good seasons, his final season at Arsenal and he's first at United, other than that the he's been plagued with injuries every other season, which is a shame for such a talent.

Unlike Reus, he was available for Oranje at the World Cup and did impress, helping them to a third place finish. At 31 years he doesn't have a whole lot left to play, and he will definitely be cursing and wondering why he had so many injury problems at a young age.

Injuries aside, I believe Van Persie is a deadly finisher just like Messi and Zlatan and no question one of the world's top 10 strikers when fit. Unfortunately for RVP, time is not his friend and I don't see him joining another big club, a return to Feyenoord is looming for the flying Dutchman.

Alex Pato

Once tagged as the 'new Ronaldo', Alex Pato has found the going tough at a very young age. He has the talent to be a world class player but recurring injury problems has set him back a mile from where he began. He has the pace or rather use too, trickery and finishing ability to be a feared striker. So why did AC Milan and Brazil give up on him so quickly?

His recurring muscle injuries eventually contributed to his departure from the Milanese giants to Corinthians. He now plays for Sao Paulo in Brazil. Only 25 years, Pato has time on his side to make things right given he can shake off his injury problems.

He is still young and can return to Europe one day, the Premier League in my opinion. He is becoming a disappointment but hopefully he can put his problems behind him and rise to stardom once again. A side like Southampton could do with his services or even Spurs or Everton to provide competiton for Kane and Lukaku.

Thomas Vermaelen

Thomas Vermaelen stormed into the Arsenal side after being signed from Ajax and my word wasn't he exceptional in his first season. His aggression and 'tough boy' persona looked every bit what Wenger and Arsenal needed in their backline not to mention the screamers he scored against Blackburn in his first season.

Things went from perfect to absolutely terrible for the Belgium in his second season. Injury after injury and the signing of Per Mertesacker didn't make it easier for him. Koscielny had upstaged him as Arsenal's first choice center back and was forming a formidable partnership with Per.

If he wasn't warming the bench then he was injured, Arsenal decided to offload him to Barcelona where his injury problems look to have followed him from the Emirates treatment table to the Camp Nou.

I was a big fan of Vermaelen when he joined Arsenal and maybe I still am, I'll have to figure that out though. He is fast approaching 30 and being at Barcelona isn't doing him any favors at all. He'll most probably be shipped out to a lesser club in the summer, a more mid-table side or even Europa side.

Arjen Robben

Another Dutchman on the list who has had an injury plagued career, but kudos to Robben when he plays he rarely fails to put on a show for Bayern, be it scoring, dancing his way past defenders or even diving, he always manages to be the center of attention.

He is probably the one person on the list excluding Marco Reus who looks to have made it with all his injury problems. He is part of a Bayern side that have won it all really, and at the age of 31 he probably has one more season left in Bayern before he departs.

He can't go higher than that Robben, he has done it all. He'll most probably be returning to the Netherlands to finish off what has been a successful career.

Jack Wilshere

England's Iniesta, Jack Wilshere is a lad with loads of talent but he is too injury prone for my liking. His close control and ability to navigate his way in tight areas is a plus, and when on form he can be fun to watch.

Not too long ago he made Xavi and Iniesta look like fools at the Emirates, beating them in their own game, and that's the Wilshere Arsenal fans love to watch and have been hoping to get him back to his very best. After his injury, things went a bit downhill for him, but the ship hasn't sunk yet for the Englishman. He does put in good performances from time to time but he's too inconsistent.

At only 23 years, I don't see Wenger giving up on him and personally I wouldn't want to see him leave the Emirates. The fact that Arsenal have a plethora of creative midfielders competing for limited spots, should do Wilshere good as maybe a bit of competition from the likes of Ramsey, Cazorla, Ozil, Chamberlain and Rosicky will get him performing at his best.

Wilshere seems like an Arsenal main stay, I don't see him leaving and with Rosicky, Cazorla and Arteta already at the 30 years mark, he has a future here and I believe Wenger sees that as well.

Abou Diaby

Abou Diaby has had the worst injury record of any player I have seen in my time, at times you even forget he exists. The 'new Vieira' he was suppose to be, and I'm sure he would have if it hadn't been for such a horrid injury record. He is back fit for now, but let's wait and see how long he'll stay fit.

He is one of my favorites, he has the ability to control proceedings in the middle of the park just ask Liverpool fans. He's greatest game ever came against Liverpool a couple of seasons ago in a 2-0 victory. Diaby was a beast in that match, dictating the flow of the game from the get go.

For Diaby we can only hope he stays fit because he is a class act. It's a shame he has spent more time in the treatment table than on the field. He is probably the spine Arsenal have always needed but due to so many injuries Wenger hasn't been able to deploy him as he would have liked.

If Diaby wasn't so injury prone and at the peak of his game, I don't think he would have been in Arsenal now. I'm sure a club like PSG would have already snapped him up for about 30Mil pounds. Wenger seems to have so much faith in him, so I see him staying put for another couple of seasons before he departs.

PFA PLAYER OF THE YEAR, EDEN HAZARD.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 12:30:00 +0000

MEET EDEN HAZARD, PFA PLAYER OF THE YEAR!

The little Belgium beat off competition from Harry Kane, David De Gea, Alexis Sanchez, Philipe Coutinho and Chelsea teammate Diego Costa to join a list of top class players such as Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo to have won the award.

Hazard has lifted Chelsea on his own especially in the second half of the season in which the likes of Fabregas seems to have lost a bit of steam and Diego Costa spending more time in the treatment room than on the field.

His 13 goals and 8 assists have edged the Blues ever closer to the Premier League title. He leads the league in chances created, dribbles attempted, dribbles completed, duels won and fouls won. Very impressive indeed, but did he really deserve it?

David De Gea has been impressive to say the least, bailing United in numerous occasions with some fine keeping. Remember games against Everton and Liverpool at Old Trafford? Arsenal at the Emirates and Southampton at Saint Mary's? Yes, De Gea basically won those games for United with absolutely stunning performances between the sticks.

Harry Kane has bust onto the scene in lightning pace, even getting a call up to the national side and scoring after only being on for 79 seconds was it? 30 games, 20 goals and 4 assists for the 21 year old who put Hazard's Chelsea to the sword at White Hart Lane. He deservedly won the young player of the year award and maybe in a year or two may be a serious contender for Player of the year, but for now, not yet.

Liverpool's Philipe Coutinho is a mesmerizing player to watch, his close control and ability to hit a screamer is up there with the best but the one department he miserably fails is his goal scoring and assist. In 30 games his recorded 4 goals and 4 assists, very disappointing for a player of his quality. But then again, we shouldn't just look at goals and assists to judge a player right?

The one contestant I don't think should have been on the list is Diego Costa. Too many injury problems dating way back to his Atletico Madrid days. Yes, he is a beast in the box, Yes, he does score a lot of goals and no one would question his tag as a world class striker, but his injury record is taking a toll on him and I'd rather have included Charlie Austin or even maybe Olivier Giroud on the list. Why Austin? He does so much for a team with very little in terms of quality and are struggling at the wrong end of the table. Imagine Charlie Austin in a bigger team with better players around him, he would be up their with the best.

Finally, Alexis Sanchez was my pick to win or at least come a close second to Eden Hazard. In 30 games he has found the net 14 times, and recorded 8 assists, add to that 22 goals in all. Mind you, it's his first season in the Premier League. Sanchez has been Arsenal's go to guy especially in the first half of the season, his performances in the new year have slowed down a bit but what this guy offers in the field no one can match, okay maybe only Luis Suarez. He does have a better supporting cast in the likes of Ozil, Cazorla and Ramsey around him as compared to Hazard who only has Fabregas, but still Sanchez will give you a lot more than Hazard does. Disagree with me but it's the plain truth.

It was disappointing to hear Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry voted for Hazard, which to me is a disgrace. Gary Neville went for his Manchester United man De Gea, so why didn't Henry vote for Sanchez? I can go on and on but the result won't change, Hazard is the PFA player of the year so all I and everyone else who was backing Sanchez can do is to wait till next season and hope the Chilean keeps on with his top performances.

EPL Week 34: THE WEEKEND THAT WAS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 12:18:00 +0000

CITY SURVIVE VILLA SCARE, EVERTON ROLL OVER THE RED DEVILS AND CHELSEA EDGE CLOSER TO TITLE.

The Premier League title race is all rapped up but the battle for second, third and fourth spot is as tight as ever. Arsenal, City and United have all surrendered the title to a Chelsea side that has been impressive this season, now which of the three will finish second. City don't look like the City of old and were given a scare by an in form Villa side. United looked out of sorts against Everton's pace on the counter attack and have now lost two on the bounce. And for Arsenal, they just couldn't break down a solid Chelsea back line.

SOUTHAMPTON 2 - 2 TOTTENHAM

This was an interesting and enlivening match that, in truth, highlighted the reasons why Southampton and Tottenham will fall distressingly yet deservingly shy of a top four spot.

Both sides were fixed by poor defending and reckless finishing at various points of a game that ebbed and streamed at St Mary's Stadium, however Ronald Koeman can take extraordinary heart from the evident rejuvenation of Graziano Pelle and Morgan Schneiderlin was by and by the exceptional player on the pitch.

Southampton twice led the pack through Graziano Pelle yet were twice pegged back as they drew 2-2 with Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday.

As Mauricio Pochettino came back to the stadium that he cleared out the previous summer to join Spurs, the hosts led the pack when the Italian striker profited a defensive error from the north Londoners, with both Ryan Mason and Ben Davies at deficiency.

Erik Lamela, nonetheless, recovered one back before the break when his slight touch fell off goalkeeper Kelvin Davis on its way through.

A strong Pelle header restored the Saints' lead in the second half but, after five minutes, Nacer Chadli outmuscled Maya Yoshida to discharge a low shot past Davis, leaving neither side with what might have been a valuable point in the race for the Europa League.

MANCHESTER CITY 3 - 2 ASTON VILLA

Fernandinho resisted a valiant Aston Villa comeback as Manchester City edged to a 3-2 Premier League triumph on Saturday.

Manuel Pellegrini's forthcoming ousted champions had all the earmarks of being cruising to consecutive wins surprisingly since February after Sergio Aguero and Aleksandar Kolarov put them 2-0 up.

Tom Cleverley's first Villa goal diminished the arrears in the 68th minute and Carlos Sanchez coolly volleyed home from a corner with five minutes remaining.

Be that as it may, Tim Sherwood's side, who progressed to the FA Cup final in correspondingly stirring manner by beating Liverpool a weekend ago, showed set-piece frailties of their own in the 89th moment as Fernandinho grabbed the winner.

The win moves under-fire City manager Pellegrini and his side up to second in the table, albeit Arsenal have a game in hand.

Villa are two points above the relegation zone in 16th after wins for kindred strugglers Hull City and Leicester City prior on Saturday and they have played a game more than the three teams promptly underneath them.

WEST BROM 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL

Liverpool's considerations are currently concentrated absolutely on a top four finish after their heartbreak in the FA Cup semi-finals - yet, in a game with minimal quality, this was not the execution of a side whose season relies on Champions League qualification.

Steven Gerrard's 500th Premier League appearance was not one to recall as Liverpool were held to a goalless draw at West Brom that leaves their shots of securing a Champions League spot looking considerably more remote.

Gerrard was denied a farewell appearance in the FA Cup final when Aston Villa beat Brendan Rodgers' side 2-1 in the semi-final last time out and they additionally look prone to pass up a great opportunity for a top four spot in the long-serving captain's last season before moving to LA Galaxy.

Liverpool had the better of Saturday's exchanges at the Hawthorns yet were not able to react to their Wembley catastrophe with a triumph as the Baggies burrowed deep to draw a point nearer to safety.

Jordon Ibe struck the crossbar in the second half and Gerrard came close with a free kick before the break however it turned out to be a baffling evening for Rodgers' men.

EVERTON 3 - 0 MANCHESTER UNITED

This was by far my game of the week maybe only matched up to by Villas brave showing at the Etihad. Everton did to United what they enjoy inflicting on teams, sit back and counter with devastating effect. And my word didn't the toffees execute their counters with devastating effect.

Not even when David Moyes was overseeing both of these sides did Everton record a heavier win over Manchester United at Goodison Park - and the Toffees completely merited their best home win over the Red Devils subsequent to the 1984-85 season.

In spite of enjoying the most of the possession, Manchester United were given a stun 3-0 thrashing by Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.

A win would have moved the Red Devils, momentarily, into second place however the home side went in front at an opportune time when a sizzling counterattack was done off by James McCarthy.

John Stones took advantage of lackluster defending at a corner to head home his first goal for the Toffees presently before half-time, leaving United reeling, yet not in any case some attacking substitutions could turn things around for Louis van Gaal's men.

A questionable choice not to rule Romelu Lukaku as not meddling with play from an offside position saw things go from awful to more terrible for United as substitute Kevin Mirallas jumped for the third, the defence having neglected to play to the referee's whistle.

ARSENAL 0 - 0 CHELSEA

Champions elect Chelsea and title rivals Arsenal played out a feisty goalless Premier League draw at the Emirates Stadium, with a great part of the talk centering on four penalty claims all turned down.

The most conspicuous included David Ospina's blunderous first-half impact with Oscar in an acutely challenged stalemate that saw Cesc Fabregas booed on his arrival to his previous club and Jose Mourinho keep up his unbeaten record against Arsene Wenger.

With Diego Costa and Loic Remy harmed, Oscar started as the nonentity of Chelsea's attack and was central to the talking point of the match as knocked a header past the onrushing David Ospina.

However, the Brazilian was poleaxed by the Arsenal goalkeeper and, after the chance was gathered up by Hector Bellerin, Chelsea's dissatisfactions were clear as referee Michael Oliver selected against honoring a spot kick and displaying a conceivable red card.

Mourinho was left unmistakably unmoved at the absence of a punishment or a card for the Colombian, despite the fact that Oscar was able to proceed after therapeutic aid.

Oliver was again at the focal point of things 23 minutes in, as was Fabregas, who was booked for simulation following a clash of knees with fellow spaniard Santi Cazorla in the box.

It was then Arsenal's swing to unsuccessfully call for a spot kick when Cahill handled after the half-hour mark, Ramires then forced Ospina into a shrewd save following a brisk break and sharp pass by Willian.

Both sides countered rapidly however attempted to locate the last pass - Per Mertesacker miscuing a shot wide before substitute Danny Welbeck neglected to sort his feet and style a chance after Nacho Monreal's pass.

At last, Wenger neglected to show signs of improvement of his inverse number at the 13th attempt, while Mourinho must hold up until next Sunday's visit of Crystal Palace for a chance to secure Chelsea's fourth Premier League crown giving they win at Leicester.

OTHER RESULTS

Burnley 0 - 1 Leicester City

Crystal Palace 0 - 2 Hull City

Newcastle 2 - 3 Swansea

QPR 0 - 0 West Ham

Stoke 1 - 1 Sunderland

EPL Week 34; SUNDAY PREVIEW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 26 Apr 2015 10:38:00 +0000

GOODISON WELCOMES THE RED DEVILS AND IT'S A WENGER/MOURINHO SHOWDOWN!

Manchester United will be going to the blue half of Mersyside hoping to inflict similar damage as they did to the red half of Liverpool. United have not picked up any points their in the last two visits and will be hoping for better this time. Elsewhere, the top two go head to head in the final game of the weekend as Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates. Two great games to look forward to today.

EVERTON VS MANCHESTER UNITED

United travel to a resurgent Everton side that have picked up ten points from their last four games while the visitors have nine from a possible twelve points. Louis Van Gaal’s side will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s disappointing defeat to rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge despite dominating a huge chunk of the game.

Everton season looks to have taken a turn for the better after a poor first half of the season, Martinez side look to have found the perfect formula at the right time. Playing in Europe next season is a far cry for Everton who have been regular contestants in the Europa League for the past decade. Safe from the jaws of relegation, the Toffees have nothing but pride to play for really.

Goodison Park is not an easy place to visit, and most United fans will be aware of that having lost their last two visits to the blue half of Mersyside. United’s cross town rivals Manchester City along with Liverpool and Arsenal have all failed to leave Goodison Park with all three points this season.

The previous meeting between the sides at Old Trafford ended in a 2-1 win for the home side who were a bit fortunate David De Gea was in outstanding form on the day to keep out Everton on a number of occasions.

Martinez is hoping to have James McCarthy and Leon Osman available but Steven Pienaar is likely to miss out due to muscle fatigue.

United will be without full back Rafael who has a broken rib. Joining him on the sidelines is Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Michael Carrick who is still absent due to a calf injury.

Predicted Line ups;

Everton (4-2-3-1)

Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Stones, Baines; McCarthy, Barry; Lennon, Barkley, Mirallas; Lukaku.

Manchester United (4-1-4-1)

De Gea; Valencia, Smalling, McNair, Shaw; Blind; Mata, Herrera, Fellaini, Young; Rooney.

Prediction;

Everton 2 – 2 Manchester United

Both teams are on fine form, and Everton just always seem to find that extra gear when the big boys come visiting. A draw looks a safe bet, both sides look strong but United’s backline still worries me especially at center back.

ARSENAL VS CHELSEA

Its Wenger vs Mourinho, first versus second, Alexis versus Hazard. This is the game all have been waiting for this whole week, the top two go head to head at the Emirates with Chelsea looking to inch their way closer to their first Premier League title since the return of the ‘special one’ while the Gunners will be looking to keep pace with the leaders.

Wenger doesn’t fair too good against Mourinho, in fact it is horrendous. In twelve attempts Wenger has no victory against Mou, with seven defeats including the 2-0 loss at the Bridge earlier this season and five draws.

With the likes of Sanchez, Ozil and Cazorla, Wenger will probably be facing Mourinho with his probably his best team ever since Jose joined the Premier League. Some may argue that this is also Mourinho’s best eleven since the Robben days.

This game is even made sweeter due to the animosity between the two managers. They can both brush away any rivalry at press conferences but it’s plain to see that they really don’t like each other, the earlier meeting was evidence to that with Wenger’s famous push on the Portuguese.

Cesc Fabregas is set to make his return to the place he once called home and loved dearly since departing for Barcelona in the summer of 2011. The reception he’ll receive will no doubt be a hostile one.

Mourinho should have Drogba fit for this match, which will take a bit of pressure from him as the Ivorian had suffered a minor problem during the week to leave Mou with no strikers to take with him to the Emirates. Diego Costa is still out with a hamstring problem and Loic Remy has a calf injury.

Wenger will be glad to have a bunch of players to choose from, not so many times you hear that from the Arsenal camp. Apart from Mertesacker who is 50-50, everyone else is fit. The Ox and Arteta may just lack match fitness though.

Predicted Line ups;

Arsenal (4-2-3-1)

Ospina; Debuchy, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal; Coquelin, Ramsey; Sanchez, Cazorla, Ozil; Giroud.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1)

Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Zouma, Matic; Oscar, Fabregas, Hazard; Drogba.

Prediction;

Arsenal 2 – 2 Chelsea

A very tough one to call, but I’ll go for the draw in this one. The one problem I see for Chelsea is if Hazard is shut out, where will the goals come from? Then again, if Arsenal fail to deal with the Belgium they may suffer. I’m sure Mourinho will have both Zouma and Matic in front of the defense to deal with the Arsenal trio of stars just behind Giroud especially Alexis Sanchez.

EPL Week 34: SATURDAY PREVIEW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:01:00 +0000

POCCHETINO RETURNS TO SAINTS, LIVERPOOL TACKLE WEST BROM AND CITY WELCOME VILLA TO THE ETIHAD.

SOUTHAMPTON VS TOTTENHAM

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino will be going back to a common place this weekend when his side go to previous club Southampton.

Pochettino burned through 18 months at St Mary's Stadium, directing the club to 14th and eighth-place in the Premier League, before moving to White Hart Lane toward the end of last season.

The Argentinian was tasked with returning Spurs to the top four, yet a conflicting campaign sees them lie 6th in the table, seven points off a Champions League qualifying place.

Tottenham vanquished Newcastle 3-1 last time out, which permitted them to climb one point above Southampton, who went down 2-1 at Stoke City.

Should Arsenal annihilate Aston Villa in the FA Cup final one month from now, seventh spot would seal an Europa League spot, however Southampton administrator Ronald Koeman would not like to depend on others to secure European football next season.

Filip Djuricic (lower leg) is still out, while Victor Wanyama is suspended, however Toby Alderweireld ought to be fit after a shoulder injury picked up at Stoke.

For Spurs, Hugo Lloris (knee) and Danny Rose (hamstring) are questions, while Kyle Walker (foot) will be out for around four weeks.

Prediction; Southampton 2 - 1 Tottenham

The Saints have made their ground a fortress and with Spurs inconsistent form I don't see a happy return for Pocchetino to Saint Marys. Southampton will win this narrowly.

WEST BROM VS LIVERPOOL

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers needs his side to bounce back from their FA Cup semi-final loss and appreciate a solid end to their Premier League battle, beginning at West Brom.

Rodgers' side were well less than impressive at Wembley on Sunday, losing 2-1 to Aston Villa in spite of taking a first-half lead through Philippe Coutinho.

Seven points behind Manchester City having played a game less, Liverpool still harbor desires for finishing in the top four, and Rodgers is declining to harp on the loss to Villa.

Liverpool's hosts West Brom astonished numerous last time out by going to a resurgent Crystal Palace and setting out away with a 2-0 triumph.

After three defeats with 10 goals yielded all the while it was an appreciated come back to winning routes for Tony Pulis' side, and assistant head mentor David Kemp is searching for a rehash performance this weekend.

Youssouf Mulumbu finishes a three-match suspension on Saturday, while Andre Wisdom is ineligible to face his guardian club and Craig Dawson is an uncertainty with knee damage.

Rodgers, is still without Mamadou Sakho (hamstring), Lucas Leiva (thigh) and Daniel Sturridge (thump) for Saturday's trip to The Hawthorns, while Jon Flanagan and Adam Lallana are nearing returns after separate knee and crotch issues.

Prediction; West Brom 2 - 2 Liverpool

The Hawthorns is never an easy place to visit and Liverpool will be well aware of that. I see both teams canceling each other out in an entertaining two all draw.

BURNLEY VS LEICESTER CITY

The Clarets' battle against relegation from the top flight took another blow last week in their 1-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park as Kevin Mirallas's first-half strike decided the contest.

Worryingly for Dyche's men the match reflected the tone of their season as his team played well but they were unable to take any points from the game, while they also lost Ashley Barnes to suspension.

Burnley are now bottom of the Premier League, two points adrift of safety, with time running out to claw themselves to safety as just five matches remain in the campaign.

Nigel Pearson's men have given themselves a real chance of pulling off a great escape after picking up three wins in their last three matches in the Premier League.

The Foxes have come into form at just the right time in the season, and their feat could echo the accomplishment of Sunderland last season, when they rose from the foot of the table to safety in the last month of the campaign.

Leicester lie in the relegation zone only on goal difference, and are also boosted by the fact that they have a game in hand over some of their relegation rivals entering the climax of the season.

Burnley will be without Ashley Barnes, who was sent off in their defeat to Everton last week, as he serves his one-match ban.

Lukas Jutkiewicz or Michael Kightly could start in place of Barnes at Turf Moor, meanwhile the Clarets will also be without long-term absentee Dean Marney as he is out with a torn ACL.

David Nugent is a major doubt for the clash for Leicester as he is struggling with a calf injury he sustained in the warm-up ahead of his side's win over Swansea City.

Marcin Wasilewski is also in battle for fitness after missing the second half of the victory over the Swans as Ritchie de Laet is ready to come into the team to replace the defender.

Prediction; Burnley 2 - 0 Leicester City

Burnley have been playing really well but have been on the end of defeats. I believe they'll be too good for a resurgent Leicester side.

MANCHESTER CITY VS ASTON VILLA

Tim Sherwood trusts Aston Villa can bridle the feel good factor of their FA Cup semi-final win over Liverpool when they go to Manchester City on Saturday.

Villa progressed to their first FA Cup showpiece for a long time with a 2-1 triumph at Wembley on Sunday as their resurgence under Sherwood proceeded.

Since his entry in February, Villa have extraordinarily helped their shots of maintaining the drop, climbing four points clear of the relegation zone ahead of this weekend's outing to the Etihad Stadium.

Unlike Villa, reigning champions City are wandering towards closing the season with no silverware, their sights rather set on securing an automatic Champions League spot.

Manuel Pellegrini's side lie fourth, a point behind Manchester United and one further of Arsenal, and defender Bacary Sagna is focusing on a solid end to what has been a troublesome crusade.

David Silva endured a facial injury in the 2-0 win over West Ham last time out and remains doubtful, as do Samir Nasri (leg), James Milner (knee), Stevan Jovetic (muscular) Gael Clichy (groin) and Wilfried Bony (ankle).

Vincent Kompany's thigh injury looks set to preclude him for whatever remains of the season, while Sherwood will be without defensive twosome Ciaran Clark and Nathan Baker (both knee).

Gabriel Agbonlahor is still a worry in the wake of missing the semi-final, but Aly Cissokho and Philippe Senderos are back in contention following injury.

Prediction; Manchester City 3 - 1 Aston Villa

City haven't been on the best of runs, but they know a victory will carry them above rivals United who will have a game in hand and Arsenal who'll have two games in hand. Both teams play tomorrow. City to come out good in this one with a convincing victory.

OTHER FIXTURES

CRYSTAL PALACE VS HULL

NEWCASTLE VS SWANSEA

QPR VS WEST HAM UNITED

STOKE VS SUNDERLAND

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 8 2ND LEG: AS IT HAPPENED.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:53:00 +0000

NEYMAR DOUBLE SEES OFF PSG, BAYERN THRASH PORTO, JUVE HOLD ON AND CHICHARITO SETTLES MADRID DERBY.

So we have our line up for the last four of the Champions League, La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid who just saw off their city rivals alongside the Bavarian's Bayern Munich and Serie A runaway leaders Juventus occupy the semi-final slots.

At this point you can't pick a favorite really, Barcelona look a far better outfit than the side that were walloped by Bayern a couple of seasons ago. They are playing remarkably well and with a strike force of Neymar, Suarez and Messi, they won't fear anyone at this stage.

Real Madrid haven't really got going, but they probably have the strongest eleven when compared with the teams that are left, but Bayern fans would definitely disagree with me on that. Ancelotti will be hoping to have Bale, Benzema and Modric for the semi-final clash.

Bayern were absolutely ruthless against a Porto side that in all honesty set up very poorly against the Bavarians. Pep set his boys' well and by halftime the tie was already over. With Robben and Ribery in their ranks, Munich will be looking to steam roll their way into the final.

The Old Lady held on to their first leg advantage to progress. They'll now be facing one of Europe's top three teams. We are all aware Italians are the masters of defending and Juve will really need to be defensively stout if they are to progress to the final.

BARCELONA 2 - 0 PSG (5 - 1)

Barca needed just 14 minutes to break the deadlock thanks to a piece of brilliance from Iniesta.

The Spain star jinked his way beyond three players and played an expertly placed pass into the path of Neymar, who coolly rounded Salvatore Sirigu and tapped the ball into the empty net.

PSG responded well to going behind but only the reflexes of Sirigu prevented Barca from extending their lead soon after. The goalkeeper palmed a long-range strike from Dani Alves away and then kept out Neymar's header on the rebound.

But Sirigu could do nothing to stop Neymar from doubling his tally in the 34th minute as he was given the simple task of nodding home Dani Alves' excellent in-swinging right-wing cross.

Iniesta was withdrawn and replaced by Xavi at half-time and Barca did lose some of their attacking impetus in a low-key second half.

Yet they were rarely threatened by a PSG team, who never looked like they believed they could reverse last week's demoralising defeat at home.

Verratti lashed wide from the edge of the area and Ibrahimovic stung the palms of Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but that was all the visitors could muster as Barca - who nearly added a third through Lionel Messi in injury time - marched on in ominous fashion.

BAYERN MUNICH 6 - 1 PORTO (7 - 4)

Two goals from Robert Lewandowski helped rouse Bayern Munich to an astounding 6-1 whipping of Porto and seal their spot in the Champions League semi-finals.

Trailing 3-1 from the quarter-final first leg, Pep Guardiola's side delivered an overwhelming first-half show, scoring five times in the opening 40 minutes to leave the guests shell-stunned.

Cautious mistakes had cost Bayern dear in the opening clash, yet it was their incomparable assaulting quality that went to the fore at the Allianz Arena.

Club specialist Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt surrendered in the wake of a week ago's converse, asserting his therapeutic group had been rebuked for the thrashing, yet even without the truant trio of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery, Guardiola's group essentially had excessively for the 2004 champs.

Thiago Alcantara - who netted Bayern's away goal at the Estadio do Dragao - opened the scoring inside quarter of an hour and it was 3-0 preceding the 30th minute because of further goals from Jerome Boateng and Robert Lewandowski.

Thomas Muller's diverted effort made it four, preceding Lewandowski multiplied his count with a clinical finish as Porto neglected to live with Bayern's movement and sharpness.

With the task accomplished for the Bundesliga champions, the second half demonstrated a relaxed issue, Jackson Martinez's goal 17 minutes from time demonstrating just relief, particularly as there was still time for Xabi Alonso to twist home a late free kick after a tackle that saw Ivan Marcano sent off for his second booking.

REAL MADRID 1 - 0 ATLETICO MADRID (1 - 0)

Real Madrid kept their Champions League defence alive as Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez scored in the 88th minute to seal a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.

Chicharito was just playing because of the injury emergency at Madrid at the same time, in the wake of missing a few chances, the striker ended up being the European champions' match-victor as he settled a feisty experience at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Mexico international was available to apply a straightforward finish in the wake of being set up by Cristiano Ronaldo to guarantee Real beat Diego Simeone's side for the first time since winning the Champions League final last May.

Spanish champions Atletico had not lost to their neighbors in seven matches this season, however were made to pay for demonstrating an absence of desire more than two legs and their errand was not helped when Arda Turan recieved a second yellow card 14 minutes from time.

The tie was bound for extra time until Chicharito took focal point of the audience, at long last appearing with the singular objective more than two legs as Real stayed in the chase for a Champions League and Liga twofold.

MONACO 0 - 0 JUVENTUS (0 - 1)

Juventus are through to the Champions League semi-finals after their 0-0 draw with Monaco on Wednesday secured a 1-0 win.

Arturo Vidal's first-leg spot kick demonstrated vital in the tie as Massimiliano Allegri's men booked a slippery semi-final compartment, having missed the mark at the quarters three times subsequent to their run to the final 12 years prior.

Allegri's men were made to buckle down for their movement by a Monaco side that had stunned Arsenal in the past round and surrendered only twice at home in this season's competition.

Geoffrey Kondogbia went close twice before the break while Leonardo Jardim's side saw penalty claims turned down when the midfielder went down in the box.

That pressure proceeded after the break with Juventus shockingly drowsy on the counterattack in their offer to slaughter off the tie.

Monaco at last used up steam towards the end of a serene second leg as Juve showed high quality defensive work as expected from Italians to remain on course for a domestic and continental treble.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 8: 2ND LEG PREVIEW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 21 Apr 2015 16:58:00 +0000

BARCA, PORTO HAVE ONE FOOT IN THE SEMIS, BAYERN, PSG IN TROUBLE, THE MADRID DERBY STILL OPEN AND JUVE TRYING TO AVOID UPSET.

The 2nd legs are back faster than we all expected, just the other day we were all put to the Suarez show and Porto showed the rest of Europe that Bayern ain't a big deal, Tonight, both Bayern and mostly PSG face uphill tasks, the French outfit need to score at least thrice at the Camp Nou to progress while Bayern need a 2-0 victory at the Allianz Arena to see them through.

In tomorrows games, the Madrid derby will be the center of attention once again. The tie is very much opened and we'll all be hoping for a more open and entertaining game at the Santiago Bernabeu. Juventus on the other hand will have to be focused as they take a 1-0 lead to the Stade Louis II in Monaco.

BARCELONA (3) - (1) PSG

PSG need to score no less than three times to keep Barca from progressing to the semi-finals however Barca mentor Luis Enrique was in mindful mind-set amid Monday's news gathering.

PSG manager Laurent Blanc surrendered that his side's shots of pulling off an acclaimed win are thin however accepts that the French champions will create chances.

Barca stay in the chase for the treble and head into the game on the back of a 2-0 win over Valencia on Saturday, which kept them two points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored his 400th goal for the Catalan monsters and Suarez netted for the fifth time in his last four matches.

While Barca have lost only one of their last 31 Champions League matches at Camp Nou, Blanc will be helped by the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marco Verratti from suspensions.

Thiago Silva and Thiago Motta (both thigh) are doubtful however Marquinhos accepts Saturday's 3-1 win over Nice stands PSG in great stead.

Andres Iniesta could come back from a back injury when Luis Enrique's side endeavor to finish off the tie and achieve a last four place.

Prediction; Barcelona 2 - 2 PSG (5 - 3)

Barcelona put themselves in a very strong position to qualify for the semi-finals. PSG on the other hand have it all to play for. I feel like Barca will play this match on 2nd gear but it should still be enough to see them through.

BAYERN MUNICH (1) - (3) PORTO

Guardiola's side were paralyzed 3-1 in the first leg and, with a large group of star names still missing from injury, face another intense examination on Tuesday

Bayern Munich face an enormous daunting task in their Champions League quarter-last as they pursue Porto's two-goal lead, with Manuel Neuer calling the second leg the "biggest game" of their season.

Guardiola's damage hit Bayern battled tremendously in Portugal, falling 2-0 down inside the initial 10 minutes because of a Ricardo Quaresma twofold, and inevitably lost 3-1.

The Bundesliga pacesetters are currently confronting the likelihood of passing up a great opportunity for a fourth progressive Champions League semi-final appearance and history won't give much motivation.

The Bavarian goliaths have pursued a two-objective first-leg shortfall four times in competition and lost each and every tie.

Regardless of an extensive injury list including Franck Ribery, David Alaba and Arjen Robben – Bayern warmed up for Tuesday's game with a 2-0 triumph at Hoffenheim on Sunday, edging closer to a 25th Bundesliga title.

Bayern can take comfort from their home shape in the current year's competition, rising triumphant in each of the four of their trips at the Allianz Arena and scoring 13 goals simultaneously.

Bastian Schweinsteiger may have the capacity to highlight, yet Bayern's rundown of absentees still looks set to bring about destruction with Guardiola's group selection.

Bayern will keep on being without Robben (stomach muscles), Ribery (lower leg), Tom Starke (lower leg), Mehdi Benatia (thigh) and Javi Martinez (knee), while Jerome Boateng, Juan Bernat, Philipp Lahm and Neuer are simply a booking far from a suspension.

Porto are under no illusions as to the weight they are prone to go under in Munich, in any case, with Yacine Brahimi anticipating that Bayern should solicit genuine inquiries from Julen Lopetegui's defence regardless of their depleted numbers.

Porto's possibilities of progressing to a first Champions League semi-final since their triumphant 2003-04 battle won't be helped by suspensions for full-backs Danilo and Alex Sandro, while Cristian Tello missed Saturday's 1-0 thrashing of Academica with a thigh injury.

Prediction; Bayern 2 - 1 Porto (3 - 4)

For some reason or another I just want to see Bayern crush out of the competition, and I have a strong feeling Porto will just do enough to dump the Bavarians out. Bayern are very strong at home and I've taken a huge gamble on the prediction. If they start quick and get an early goal then Porto won't be able to stop them adding to that tally. But tonight I feel Porto have what it takes to stop them.

REAL MADRID (0) - (0) ATLETICO MADRID

The home side will be without Luka Modric and Gareth Bale in Wednesday's Madrid derby, however the Italian mentor still fancies their possibilities

Carlo Ancelotti is idealistic over Real Madrid's chances against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday in spite of injury concerns over Luka Modric and Gareth Bale.

The city opponents go into the second leg of their Champions League quarter-last level after a goalless first leg at the Vicente Calderon a week ago.

Modric (knee) and Bale (calf) are set to be sidelined for the Santiago Bernabeu battle as Real endeavor to record a first win over Diego Simeone's side since a year ago's Champions League final.

The European champions are trying to turn into the first side to retain the trophy in its current structure and, regardless of question marks over the wellness of two key players and in addition the suspension of full-back Marcelo, Ancelotti is certain his side can advance.

Simeone's men may have missed the mark concerning the form they indicated in winning La Liga last term yet stay imposing resistance in Europe particularly for individual Spanish sides.

The annihilation to Real in Lisbon is Atletico's only thrashing in their last 10 European matches against Spanish rivals and, in Antoine Griezmann, they have one of Europe's most in-form strikers.

The France international has six goals in his last five outings and will be crucial in their endeavors of progressing to the last four at their rivals' cost.

Prediction; Real Madrid 2 - 1 Atletico Madrid (2 - 1)

I'm just leaning towards Real tomorrow night despite injuries to Bale and Modric. They should have players good enough in Isco and Jesse to cover for the injured duo. It won't be an easy one though, hope to see CR7 at his very best.

MONACO (0) - (1) JUVENTUS

The guests carry a 1-0 lead into the second leg and the left-back says they must be prepared to take the game to Leonardo Jardim's men

Patrice Evra has encouraged Juventus not to sit back on their first-leg lead yet to take control of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-last tie against Monaco.

The Italian champions go to the Stade Louis II with a 1-0 lead from a week ago's first leg in Turin - Arturo Vidal's spot kick settling a hard-battled match.

With the a slender advantage, Massimiliano Allegri's side are top picks to advance to the semi-finals.

However Evra, who put in four years at Monaco somewhere around 2002 and 2006, expressed that there is a lot of work to do and indicated Monaco's lively execution in the first leg as evidence Juve can't lay on their trees.

Monaco upset the odds to achieve the last eight by beating Arsenal on away goals and Evra believes they can represent a test for any side.

Juve, who vanquished Monaco 6-4 on total to achieve the 1997-1998 Champions League final, make the trek supported by a 2-0 triumph over Lazio in Saturday's top-of-the-table conflict in Serie A.

That outcome that left them 15 points clear at the summit in their walk towards a fourth sequential title.

By differentiation, Leonardo Jardim's side have faltered lately and a 1-1 draw against Rennes on Saturday made it three matches without a win on home turf.

Third-placed Monaco are four points clear of Marseille and Saint-Etienne, while Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain are six points better off than the Principality club - with the champions having a game in hand.

Head mentor Jardim has focused on the significance of eliminating the mistakes against Juve. Vidal will be evaluated ahead of the game in the wake of missing training on Monday because of tonsillitis. Paul Pogba [hamstring] is unlikely to to be available, while Juve colleagues Kwadwo Asamoah [knee], Martin Caceres [ankle], Luca Marrone [thigh] and Romulo [groin] are additionally absentees.

Monaco are without Lacina Traore [leg], while Tiemoue Bakayoko [thigh] is an uncertainty.

Prediction; Monaco 1 - 1 Juventus (1 - 2

Juventus should just have enough to see away the French club but it won't be a walk in the park for sure.

THE FA CUP SEMI-FINALS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 10:59:00 +0000

WEMBLEY AWAITS THE RETURN OF THE ARSENAL AND ASTON VILLA.

Wembley will be awaiting the return of the Gunners and the Villans as they both got past their semi-final opponents to register their names on the 2015 final yearbook.

READING 1 - 2 ARSENAL (AET)

Arsenal avoided an upset against championship side Reading to advance to their second FA cup final in the space of a year.

Goalkeeper Adam Federici surrendered the mildest of extra time goals as Arsenal evaded a semi-final surprise in a 2-1 triumph over Reading at Wembley.

Arsene Wenger's men, who dispatched Wigan Athletic on penalties at this stage a year ago, struggled to discover their force that has seen them set out on an eight-match winning run.
Alexis Sanchez put the holders in front six minutes prior to the break with a cool finish, the process assisted by Mesut Ozil.

However the Arsenal were stunned and the fans dazed into silence following 54 minutes when Wojciech Szczesny bundled a Garath McCleary volley into the net.

Arsenal hit the woodwork twice as they looked to evade extra time - once through an eminent recovery from Federici - yet the Australia international will have needed the ground to gulp down on him when he permitted another Sanchez shot to squirm underneath him toward the end of the first half of extra time, killing Readings chances of a first final.

The outcome sees Arsenal turn into the through and through record holders for most appearances in the FA Cup final, their 19th moving them one ahead of Manchester United.

Arsenal invited back full back Mathieu Debuchy for his first appearance since January after a shoulder surgery and, after a brilliant begin from Reading, the holders started examining their rivals' back line.

Arsenal fans will now be hoping for a second FA cup trophy in succession after nine trophyless years.

ASTON VILLA 2 - 1 LIVERPOOL

Villas Fabian Delph ruined Steven Gerrards fairytale goodbye by scoring the winner at Wembley to see the Villans through to their first FA cup final in fifteen years leaving Liverpool miserable and without a trophy again this season.

Villa may have edged far from threat in the Premier League following Sherwood breezed into Villa Park in February however they were consigned to a sideshow in the construct up to this FA Cup semi-final by the attention on Gerrard's supposed date with fate on 30 May. A Wembley show-stopper on the event of the Liverpool chief's 35th birthday, saying farewell to a sparkling vocation with another bit of flatware; it appeared predetermined.

Rather, Liverpool solidified, Rodgers was strategically outmaneuvered by the Villa administrator and Fabian Delph in addition to Jack Grealish were the exceptional midfielders in plain view. Sherwood's side through to the final against Arsenal with a certain, overwhelming and in vogue execution, a flawlessly executed strategy and the club's first FA Cup win over Liverpool since the semi-final of 1897. Ron Vlaar shone in the midst of a disturbed rear guard and Christian Benteke proceeded with his productive goal scoring with a ninth goal in his last seven trips. Delph's winner in the second half was merited on an individual and aggregate premise.

By difference, Liverpool were curbed and anonymous until blending late on when Gerrard had a header cleared off the line by Kieran Richardson and substitute Mario Balotelli had a goal prohibited for an inaccurate offside decision. Rodgers was submerged in a strategic wreckage he could call his own making, tearing up his starting formation after just 25 minutes, changing his forward line at half-time and ending the game with each outfield Liverpool player in an alternate position to where they began.

It was clarity versus disarray, and clarity inescapably won. Rodgers is presently the first Liverpool director since Phil Taylor in the 1950s not to win a trophy in his initial three seasons at Anfield and the examination will be extraordinary if, as seems likely, Champions League capability stays out of achieve this season.

EPL Week 33: THE WEEKEND THAT WAS.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 10:12:00 +0000

CHELSEA CLOSE IN ON EPL TITLE AFTER VICTORY AGAINST UNITED.

Blue was the color that came out on top in the battle at the bridge despite the Red Devils fine performance on the day. Elsewhere, Manchester United's noisy neighbors were victorious against West Ham to move within a point of their cross town rivals.

CHELSEA 1 - 0 MANCHESTER UNITED

Louis Van Gaal's must be eating his hair out, just how United lost this one he will not understand and his anger was plain to see in his post match interview which was rather hilarious and had a bit of a Mourinho feel to it, short and arrogant responses. Yes, United were the better attacking side, their play moving forward had more fluency and panache than that of Chelsea but they really failed to deliver anything of real threat in the final third. Chelsea though were better defensively, an organized and solid defensive work by the whole squad ensure United had little joy.

To be honest, Chelsea looked out of sorts going forward but still managed to score a goal and create the best chance of the whole game. Hazard played a part in both, scoring the first effort and coming inches close from doubling his tally when he touched the ball against the bar with De Gea not in sight.

United started the game well and Rooney's effort had all United fans on their feet unfortunately for them the ball had hid the side netting. From then on, chances were few and far between, United having much of the ball played at a very slow pace and were patient to wait for the Blues to make an error. Shaw's pace caused Ivanovic all sorts of problems but really didn't do enough.

Chelsea's well drilled defensive line kept pushing United out wide and dealing with any crosses into the box with ease. Matic and Zouma were like an unmovable rock in the heart of the midfield, tracking Rooney and Fellaini with great effect.

When the Blues struck, the gulf in class was evident. They just needed one moment to split the United defense opened and it was a sublime back heel from Oscar to the path of Hazard that undid the defense.

The second half had very little to offer, apart from the Hazard effort against the bar and a couple of United ping-pongs in the Chelsea box, it wasn't as exciting as I'd hoped. Chelsea have one foot across the finish line, and a victory against Arsenal this coming weekend we'll surely be enough to see them champions.

MANCHESTER CITY 2 - 0 WEST HAM

Regardless of the absence of captain Vincent Kompany and James Milner through injury, City had the capacity to see off an inadequate West Ham side and move seven points clear of fifth placed Liverpool, who do have a game in hand.

A peculiar 18th-moment own goal from James Collins put City ahead before Sergio Aguero multiplied the lead with his 20th goal of the season.

West Ham never debilitated a fightback, however a routine triumph was soured when Silva was caught by an elbow from Cheikhou Kouyate halfway during the half, with the Senegalese gaining just a booking.

City had the better of the opening stages as West Ham struggled to get hold of the ball and, after Alexander Kolarov had run close with a curling free-kick, City took the lead through an immense stroke of fortune after 18 minutes.

West Ham developed into the game and gave a sporadic attacking threat, yet they were given a mountain to climb when Aguero completed off a shining counter-assault in the 36th minute.

Yaya Toure won the ball in midfield and set Aguero free, the Argentina striker then finishing off the attack with a smart low finish under Adrian in the wake of a fine interchange Navas.

City now close in on cross town rivals United and are two behind second place Arsenal who have a game in hand.

NEWCASTLE 1 - 3 TOTTENHAM

Chadli gave Mauricio Pochettino's side a half-time lead with a long-range strike 29 minutes in, though Tim Krul might have done more to save the effort.

However, Newcastle equalized early in the second half - Colback restoring parity 18 seconds after the restart.

If there was any doubt about Krul's role in Spurs' first goal, there was nowhere for the goalkeeper to hide with the second, as Eriksen's 53rd-minute free-kick eluded the Dutchman's grasp and found the back of the net.

Kane's 30th goal of the campaign added to John Carver's woes, with Newcastle remaining just seven points clear of the relegation zone, while Spurs moved above Southampton into sixth.

OTHER RESULTS;

CRYSTAL PALACE 0 - 2 WEST BROM

EVERTON 1 - 0 BURNLEY

STOKE 2 - 1 SOUTHAMPTON

LEICESTER 2 - 0 SWANSEA

BATTLE AT THE BRIDGE.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 11:53:00 +0000

THE BATTLE AT THE BRIDGE AS CHELSEA HOST UNITED.

It couldn't get better than this now could it? Mourinho vs Van Gaal at the bridge is the pick of the weekend matches. The only problem abouth this game is the timing, it kicks off just 10 minutes after the FA cup semi-final clash between Reading and Arsenal kicks off at Wembley. A real bummer for as Gunners fans. I would really love Chelsea to drop points but what I would love to see more is United get a beating of a lifetime and stay behind us on the table.

United are in fine form having won their last six league matches beating Liverpool and Manchester City in that period. The Red Devils were absolutely devastating against City last weekend, and a repeat of such a performance will be welcomed by all United fans. Van Gaal's men have failed to beat the West London outfit in their last eight attempts and will be hoping for a turnaround in today's clash.

Chelsea needed a late goal from Cesc Fabregas to pick up three points against QPR in their last outing where they were far from convincing. The Blues need only four more victories to be Premier League Champions and a victory today will take them closer to lifting the title. Chelsea are unbeaten in thirteen games in all competitions.

The last meeting between the two sides ended in a 1-1 draw, Robin Van Persie scoring the equalizer in stoppage time after Didier Drogba had headed Chelsea into the lead.

Robin Van Persie could make his return from an ankle injury likewise to Luke Shaw who has been suffering from a hamstring problem. Michael Carrick is set to miss out after he limped off in the derby win last weekend with a calf problem.

Chelsea will be without Diego Costa whose hamstring troubles have seen him in and out of the squad. Loic Remy is also a doubt with a calf problem.

Probable Line ups;

Chelsea (4-2-3-1)

Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Fabregas, Matic; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Drogba.

Manchester United (4-1-4-1)

De Gea; Valencia, Smalling, Evans, Shaw; Blind; Mata, Herrera, Fellaini, Young; Rooney.

Key Players

Eden Hazard - The little Belgium will no doubt be a thorn to the United defense with bags of tricks and pace. He may well be the difference between the two sides tonight. Valencia will have to have his head up at all times and avoid going forward too often.

Marouane Fellaini - The tall Belgium man will just be as influential as his Belgium teammate for his side. For United to have any flow and tempo, he'll have to win his midfield battles against Matic and Fabregas.

Prediction; Chelsea 2 - 1 Manchester United

The Blues look unstoppable at the moment so do United. In my opinion it will go down to which squad has the better players, and that's Chelsea without a doubt. United's defense is very questionable at times, and with the likes of Hazard, Oscar and Willian, Chelsea have enough to get behind that defense at will. Chelsea to just edge today's game for me.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: AS IT HAPPENED.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 09:11:00 +0000

BARCA STROLL IN PARIS, ALL SQUARE IN THE MADRID DERBY AND PORTO SHOW THE WORLD HOW IT'S DONE.

It was a Champions League week and we were given a treat as expected. We witnessed Luis Suarez at his best, Cristiano Ronaldo rather quiet, horrendous defending from Bayer Munich and David Luiz being....well David Luiz.

I'll take a look at each game one by one, starting off with my game of the week, Porto vs Bayern.

PORTO 3 -1 BAYERN MUNICH

Bayern face a tough but rather achievable task given the way they have been blowing away sides at their home ground the Allianz Arena. For Porto, it was a job that deserves applauds from every football lover across the globe. Next step for them, putting in a defensive shift come next Tuesday.

Bayern were so error prone on the night and got heavily punished.

The first ten minutes of the game Bayern had conceded twice. First, Xabi Alonso was robbed by Martinez before being felled by Neuer, the resulting penalty calmly slotted home by the impressive Quaresma. The goal scorer then dispossessed Dante before producing a fine finish.

Ten minutes gone and the score read 2-0 to Porto. The underdogs cruising and the neutrals enjoying every moment of a European giant being slayed. Bayern fans may argue they were missing their three most influential players in Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben and Frank Ribery. Newsflash Bayern fans, a great team doesn't depend on individual players but a squad of eleven.

Thiago Alcantara was able to get a goal back just before the half hour mark. His first goal in over a year. Porto went into the break 2-1 up with the fans in the Dragao singing at the top of their voices.

The errors didn't end their, it was Boateng's turn to make a mistake. He completely misjudged the flight of the ball allowing Martinez to control and round Neuer and slot into an empty net. 3-1 job done, Bayern didn't create too many clear cut chances. Their performance on the night was sluggish, this surely won't repeat itself in Germany.

This tie isn't over yet, we all know Bayern are more than capable of scoring twice without reply at their backyard.

PSG 1 - 3 BARCELONA

PSG may kiss the Champions League bye bye until next season. Their performance on the night was not bad by all means, but the defending was questionable especially after captain Thiago Silva was taken off early in the first half.

Neymar gave Barca the lead on eighteen minutes after Messi who had hit the post earlier with a fine curling effort picked him out with a perfect through ball, the Brazilian made no mistake with the finish.

PSG gained control of the match as the half drew to a close and Edison Cavani should have scored if it wasn't for a last ditch tackle from Javier Mascherano. PSG sustained their pressure in the second half with efforts from distance by Javier Pastore and Rabiot.

Luis Suarez who looks to be back at his best then put the game beyond PSG with a wonderful solo effort beating three defenders, a nutmeg on Luiz the first of two on the night, and wonderful strength to hold off Marquinhos and Maxwell before slotting home.

His second didn't come much later, as a good one two and a nutmeg on Luiz again set him free on goal where he curled to the top corner to put the game and maybe tie beyond PSG. PSG got a consolation goal but surely it's an uphill battle for them after this kind of defeat.

ATLETICO MADRID 0 - 0 REAL MADRID

This was like a game of two halves but no clear opportunities were created by either team apart from Gareth Bale's early one on one against the impressive Oblak who saved well.

Real dominated the first half and caused their cross town rivals a few problems, Gareth Bale was denied twice by Oblak, James Rodriguez had a shot with the outside of his boot well saved and Modric fired over when he should have done better.

Atletico were well organised defensively as we knew they would be against Real. Cristiano was kept quiet for most if not the whole game and Real just couldn't create a whole lot in the final third. Atletico looked much better after the break and caused problems when they moved forward.

Ancelotti's men failed to assert any kind of pressure in the second half as they did in the first, and were mostly defending in the last 45 minutes. Benzema had one opportunity to pull the trigger but opted to pass to Ronaldo who squandered the chance.

I'm expecting a more entertaining game at the Bernabeu next week, and especially Real to be on the attack. Atletico won't be too satisfied with this result as they know if Real score they'll have to score. Anyway, we can only wait and see what the next tie serves.

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 MONACO

I didn't get the chance to watch this game because of the Madrid derby of course, but I got the chance to see the highlights. Juventus will be disappointed to only go into the next tie away from home with a one goal lead and Moncao will definitely be scratching their heads wondering what if Carrasco had scored the chance he had early on.

This tie is far from over, Monaco will definitely be sniffing at an opportunity to reach the semi-finals stage since they last achieved that goal in 2004. If Juventus reminisce their performance against Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park then they just may be heading to the last 4.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 8; PSG VS BARCELONA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:38:00 +0000

ROUND 3 BETWEEN PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN AND BARCELONA AT THE PARC DES PRINCES

Paris Saint-Germain will be prodded on by the memory of their horrifying Champions League exits in the last two seasons when they host Barcelona in the first leg of their quarter-final on Wednesday.

The clubs meet at the Parc des Princes with the French champions edgy to make it to the last four in the wake of being dumped out of the competition on away goal to Barcelona and Chelsea in the quarter-finals in each of the last two seasons.

It will be the third time that the two sides have met in the competition this season after each recording a win over the other in Group F.

Anyhow their 3-2 win against the Catalans in Paris in the group stage, and the character they indicated to beat Chelsea on away goals in the last 16, in light of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's first-half red card, proposes they have what it takes to make the jump forward this time.

Barcelona have won 30 of their last 34 matches in all competitions, however a nine-game winning streak was dented in a 2-2 draw at Sevilla on Saturday.

The outcome at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium delineated both the great and the awful of Barca, as they raged into an early lead before surrendering two goals late on.

Having lost in Paris in September, Barcelona asserted revenge, and top spot in Group F, by winning 3-1 at the Camp Nou in December.

Messi, Neymar and Suarez all scored after Ibrahimovic had put the guests ahead, and now the Parisians must work out how to abstain from surrendering a conceivably significant away goal against the intense Barcelona front three.

PSG will be without a few key players for the first leg of their Champions League semi-last against Barcelona.

Without the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Laurent Blanc has an injury concern over midfield general Thiago Motta (thigh), while midfield lynchpin Marco Verratti misses the conflict through suspension. David Luiz has been named in the squad regardless of concerns over a hamstring problem.

Barcelona have no big injury worries for the game at Paris, with long term absentee Thomas Vermaelen, Jodri Masip, Douglas and Rafinha all set to be absent.

Probable Line ups;

PSG (4-4-2)
Sirigu; Van der Wiel, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Maxwell; Lucas, Matuidi, Rabiot, Pastore; Cavani, Lavezzi.

Barcelona (4-3-3)
Stegen; Dani Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Jordi Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta; Suarez, Messi, Neymar.

Prediction; PSG 2 -2 Barcelona

Barcelona are on hot form at the moment and PSG's injury and suspension problems does them a lot of good. I see them taking something back with them to the Camp Nou.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 8 PREVIEW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:38:00 +0000

THE EL DERBI MADRILENO TAKES CENTER STAGE TONIGHT IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE.

The Champions League is finally back. No more early Tuesday and Wednesday nights for us football lovers. Unfortunately, no English team is left in the competition. Chelsea and Arsenal knocked out on away goals, City beat by Barcelona and Liverpool didn't even make it to the round of 16. English teams aside for now, the draw brought out some mouthwatering ties. The Madrid derby being the most high profile of the lot alongside PSG vs Barcelona.

Tonight, Atletico do battle with cross town neighbors Real and Juventus welcome Monaco who just scrapped through to the Juventus stadium.

ATLETICO MADRID VS REAL MADRID

Diego Simeone has made a fool of Real Madrid this season, doing the double on them in La Liga. Leave alone that, Real have failed to record a victory against Atletico in the last six attempts since coming out on top in last seasons Champions League final 4-1 after extra time.

Atletico may be out of the running for the Liga title but one thing they know how to do is beat Real. Real's last visit to the Vicente Calderon was a disappointing one as they were outplayed and hammered 4-0.

Ancelotti's men have not been at their best for the best part of 3 months. They lost to Barca in the El Classico and a near collapse almost so Schalke humiliate them. They definitely have to pick up quickly if they are to avoid another massacre at the home of their city rivals.

Atletico themselves will be disappointed to be off the pace in La Liga and battling for a third place finish with a Valencia side that look to have got themselves where they belong, and that is competing for a place in next seasons Champions League.

Diego Simeone has a full squad to select from while his counterpart Ancelotti may be without Sami Khedira, Pepe and Fabio Coentrao, other than that he still has a strong squad to pick.

Probable Line ups:

Atletico Madrid (4-4-2)

Oblak; Siqueira, Godin, Miranda, Juanfran; Koke, Tiago, Gabi, Turan; Griezmann, Mandzukic.

Real Madrid (4-3-3)

Casillas; Marcelo, Ramos, Varane, Carvajal; James Rodriguez, Kroos, Modric; Ronaldo, Benzema, Bale.

Key Players

Atletico Madrid;

Antoine Griezmann - The French international is on the form of his life. He bagged two goals in the weekend game against Malaga to make it 18 league goals. Wherever he plays, if it's out wide or up front alongside, he'll be the man to watch.

Arda Turan - Turan has been one of Atletico's best player in past seasons. He has what it takes to change a game with one moment of brilliance. Marcelo will have to be at his best to deny him any kind of space.

Koke - He'll definitely be pushing inside where he is most dangerous from out wide. Spain's future and definitely one player Real will have to keep a close eye on tonight.

Real Madrid;

Cristiano Ronaldo - There's really nothing to say about CR7 the world's best player. He only needs a sniff at goal and he is scoring. Atletico have done well in keeping him quiet in recent games and have to deploy such tactics again tonight or they'll suffer.

Gareth Bale - Keeping CR7 quiet won't solve the problem because Bale is more than capable of stepping up if Ronaldo is marked out of the game.

James Rodriguez - Another player capable of hurting you just like CR7 and Bale. Alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, James will be dictating the tempo from midfield.

Prediction; Atletico Madrid 2 - 1 Real Madrid

Diego Simeone has found the right dose in shutting out Real's deadly attacking threat and he'll definitely employ similar tactics in tonight's clash. Don't fix what's not broken. He has done it twice this season, so why can't he do it again. Carlo Ancelotti will have to find a formula to deal with his 'Atletico' problem. He hasn't managed a victory against them since last seasons CL final.

I'll just go with Atletico in this one.

Other Matches;

JUVENTUS VS MONACO

Prediction; Juventus 3 - 0 Monaco

The Old lady were very impressive against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park, Monaco should cause less of a problem than BVB did. I see this tie being settled in this leg. Comfortable 3-0 victory for Juve and surely a ticket to the semi-finals, though Juve should be very cautious of the threat and pace Monaco have on the counter attack.

RAHEEM STERLING: WORLD CLASS OR OVER-RATED?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 10:02:00 +0000

20 YEAR OLD LIVERPOOL FORWARD, RAHEEM STERLING. IS HE A WORLD CLASS PLAYER?

Raheem Sterling is the name on most people's lips. Why? At the age of 20, is this raw talent fit enough to be tagged as a world class player? Or is he just another over-rated youngster?

Yes he did score a beautiful goal in last nights 2-0 victory over Newcastle, but he missed a couple of sitters as well. This guy posses so much pace he's a nightmare for defenders, and Ryan Taylor was the victim of that ability last night. Eleven goals, eight assists in all competitions for RS this season and fans, media are going ballistic about this young chap. The stats aren't too bad for such a young man.

There is way too much hype about him at the moment, yes he is Liverpool's top scorer but he just doesn't impress me. He's contract talks have stalled, does he want higher wages than he's currently been offered or he feels it's time to move to a big club? Rumor has it Wenger has been tracking him, why? Wenger why? Arsenal surely don't need him, The Ox and Walcott are by far more finished products than Sterling is at the moment. So Wenger should just look away.

Raheem should stay put at Anfield for another season or two before he makes the jump. The biggest mistake he'd make is moving in the summer. He is still so raw and needs time to develop himself. For example, he moves to Real Madrid in the summer, sorry to say he'll only make the bench. CR7, Bale and James Rodriguez occupy the positions Sterling operates, and honestly, those are world class players which Sterling isn't yet.

Is he better than Philipe Coutinho? Absolutely not! Coutinho already looks a complete player than Sterling and maybe the hype should be around the Brazilian instead. You may think I'm being a bit too harsh on the Englishman, no I'm not. Behind that raw player there's talent, we all see that when he's at his very best but he isn't there just yet. I'm sure a lot of Liverpool fans will disagree with me, but hey, the truth is always bitter.

"Raheem Sterling is just as good as Hazard and Sanchez." Those were the words of a friend who is a die hard Reds fan. Take a back seat son, because clearly you don't know what you are talking about. Hazard and Sanchez are probably the two best players in the Premier League and are world class. Sterling would be lucky just to sneak into the top 20 best players in the Premier League. Considering all the teams above Liverpool in the table have about five or six players better than Sterling. Then there also players such as Harry Kane who would definitely be ahead of him.

In two or three seasons, Raheem most likely will be a top player, but for now, all the hype must stop. He isn't there yet! Liverpool fans want someone to talk about, Philipe Coutinho is your man of the moment.

Feel free to have your say on the comment box below. Do you agree with me or not?

EPL Monday Week 32; LIVERPOOL VS NEWCASTLE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 16:27:00 +0000

LIVERPOOL LOOKING TO CLOSE IN ON MANCHESTER CITY

The Reds tackle Newcastle at Anfield tonight knowing a win takes them within four points of City and renewed hope for Champions League football next season. These are two sides licking their wounds at the moment, Liverpool having lost to both United and Arsenal will look to get back to winning ways. For Newcastle, it's one win in the last five games, and defeat in the derby to Sunderland left a deep scar to fans and players alike of Newcastle United.

Newcastle edged out the reverse fixture back in November 1-0 and the black and white army will be hoping for a repeat result tonight. Newcastle now just sit nine points adrift of safety with seven matches left to play after four losses on the bounce.

The Reds head into this game on bad form, but will be hungry than ever due to City's slip up once again on Sunday. Liverpool fans will be knowing only three points will revitalize their chances of finishing fourth at most, as second or third spot look to be out of their reach this season.

Liverpool will be without French international Mamadou Sakho who limped off against Blackburn in the FA cup quarter final replay. Martin Skrtel and Steven Gerrard serve their final match of their three games suspension and Adam Lallana has a groin problem. Rodgers will be delighted to welcome back Jordan Ibe to the line up as well as Emre Can who returns from suspension. Daniel Sturridge should be fit after complaining of muscle tightness while Mario Balotelli may well have recovered from illness.

Newcastle captain Fabriccio Coloccini and stiker Papiss Cisse are suspended while Rolando Aarons and Siem De Jong are back in training but will not make if for this fixture. Long term absentees Cheick Tiote and Steven Taylor are still out.

Probable Line ups;

Liverpool (3-4-2-1)
Mignolet; Can, Lovren, Toure; Markovic, Henderson, Allen, Moreno; Coutinho, Sterling; Sturridge.

Newcastle (4-2-3-1)
Krul; Taylor, Janmaat, Williamson, Jonas; Colback, Sissokho; Gouffran, Cabella, Ameobi; Perez.

Key Players

Philipe Coutinho - With six goals in all competitions, the little Brazilian will be the man to watch. He netted the winner vs Blackburn that sent Liverpool to Wembley for a FA cup semi-final clash vs Aston Villa.

Moussa Sissokho - Tall, energetic, powerful, pacey and a wonderful striker of the ball. This guy has it all. One of the best attacking midfielders when running at the defense, probably on Yaya Toure betters him. If he's on his game, Henderson and Allen will have a long night. He is the key to Newcastle getting anything out of this.

Prediction; Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle

Newcastle just look out of sorts at the moment and with nothing really to play for, while Liverpool know only victory will have them dreaming of Champions League football again.