UEFA Champions League

"Young Boys won't be easy!", Tottenham's manager, Harry Redknapp

2010-08-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Tottenham's manager, Harry Redknapp, said he was impressed by the way Young Boys of Bern played against Fenerbahce in the previous qualifying round. Photograph: Joao Santos/AFP/Getty Images Tottenham Hotspur's hopes of reaching the group stages of the Champions League were given a huge lift today when they were drawn against Young Boys of Bern in the play-off round.

Although the Swiss Super League runners-up knocked out Fenerbahce in the previous round, Harry Redknapp will be relieved to have avoided Dynamo Kyiv, Braga, Sampdoria and Auxerre, all of whom were potential opponents, and would have carried a much greater threat.Young Boys have started their domestic season but have failed to win any of their opening three matches and their disappointment at being paired with Spurs, who last appeared in Europe's premier club competition in the 1961-62 season, was acute. Alain Baumann, the club's sporting director, described the draw as "the worst that we could have" and conceded that their chances of going through were "very, very little".
Spurs will face Young Boys at the Stade de Suisse on 17 or 18 August, with the second leg at White Hart Lane the following Tuesday or Wednesday. "We'll be favourites, obviously, but we have to give Young Boys the utmost respect," Redknapp, the Spurs manager, said. "They beat Fenerbahce in the last round and we watched the first leg on DVD. They could have won four or five – they hammered them at home. They then went away and won in Turkey and that's a fantastic result. They also have an astroturf pitch at their stadium and they play well on it, so it will be a tough game for us."One person in Bern who was delighted with the draw is Scott Sutter, the 24-year-old Young Boys right-back who was born in Enfield and grew up supporting Spurs. Sutter left England for his father's native Switzerland at the age of 16 and has not returned since. "To be drawn against the team I grew up supporting is a special, special feeling for me," Sutter said. "Hopefully I'll stay injury-free beforehand so I can play in the stadium where I once was as a supporter."In the Europa League play-offs, Liverpool travel to Turkey to face Trabzonspor, with the home leg taking place at Anfield on 19 August before the two teams meet in Turkey a week later. Manchester City look like enjoying a comfortable passage into the group stages after Roberto Mancini's side were drawn against the Romanian club Timisoara, who finished fifth in their domestic league. City are away in the first leg. "Any team from Romania will provide stiff opposition, particularly on their own ground," Mancini said.Aston Villa have a chance to avenge last season's defeat by Rapid Vienna after they were paired with the Austrian side at the same stage of the competition for the second year running.

"We had the feeling beforehand that we'd probably find ourselves drawn against Rapid Vienna again," Martin O'Neill, the Villa manager, said. "This won't be easy because Rapid was as tough a draw as we could have encountered, but we'll be ready to go."Celtic, who have dropped into the Europa League after they were defeated in their Champions League qualifier in midweek, are up against the Dutch side Utrecht, who finished seventh in the Eredivisie last season. In the other ties involving British clubs, Motherwell face the Danish side Odense, Dundee United take on AEK Athens and the Welsh Premier League team TNS play CSKA Sofia.

Champions League Play-off Draw

2010-08-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur have been handed a draw against Swiss League runner-ups Young Boys.

After almost half a century away from the Champions League, Spurs supporters will heave a sigh of relief after being drawn against Young Boys, who will be making their first appearance in the knockout stages of the competition.

It also looks to be a clash of titans as a Mesut Ozil-led Werder Bremen will face-off against Antonio Cassano's Sampdoria, and Dynamo Kiev to play Ajax Amsterdam for the final spots in the group stages.

Zenit St Petersburg, previous winner's of the Europa League, will face French side AJ Auxerre, while an Iberian clash awaits when Braga play Sevilla.

In the Champions Route, Salzburg play Israeli side Hapoel Tel-Aviv, and Scandinavian sides Rosenburg and FC Copenhagen will need to do very little travelling for their fixtures.

Swiss side Basel will face off against FC Sheriff, while gruelling encounters await Sparta Praha who play MSK Zilina, as well as Partizan Belgrade against Anderlect.

League Route (Matches to be played 17/18 and 24/25 August 2010)

Young Boys vs Tottenham Hotspur

Braga vs Sevilla

Werder Bremen vs Sampdoria

Zenit St Petersburg vs AJ Auxerre

Dynamo Kiev vs Ajax Amsterdam

Champions Route (Matches to be played 17/18 and 24/25 August 2010)

Salzburg vs Hapoel Tel-Aviv

Rosenberg vs FC Copenhagen

Basel vs FC Sheriff

Sparta Praha vs MSK Zilina

Partizan Belgrade vs Anderlec

UEFA Champions league's Quarter Finals Draws

2010-03-24T04:48:00.000-07:00

Uefa Champions League Quarter finales are ready to go on the way to semis...The Draws are interesting this time. The fans have an eye on the cruel clashes among the rivals of soccer world.

Arsenal have been drawn against holders Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, while Manchester United face Bayern Munich in a repeat of the memorable 1999 Final.

Barcelona beat the Gunners in the Final four years ago when Arsene Wenger's team had Jens Lehmann sent off and outclassed Manchester United in last year's showpiece.

Eleven years ago United produced one of the most memorable comebacks in European football history when they scored two last-gasp goals to edge past the current Bundesliga leaders 2-1.

The German side seemed certain to claim the trophy when they led 1-0 going into injury time only for last-gasp goals by substitutes Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to hand Sir Alex Ferguson his first Champions League crown.

Elsewhere, there will be an all-French quarter-final after Lyon were paired with Bordeaux while Internazionale, who knocked Chelsea out of the competition on Tuesday, will be expected to see off outsiders CSKA Moscow, who surprisingly beat Sevilla at the last-16 stage.

If United can win through to the semi-finals they will play the winners of the Lyon v Bordeaux clash, while Arsenal will face Inter or CSKA if they can shock Pep Guardiola's team.

The full quarter and semi-final draws are:

Lyon v Bordeaux

Bayern Munich v Manchester United

Arsenal v Barcelona

Internazionale v CSKA Moscow.

Baca'on it Way!

2010-03-18T10:26:00.001-07:00

Iniesta was optimistic of proceeding through to the Champions League finals in May, though quick to note that the remaining teams pose a serious threat to their ambitions.

Speaking to AS after the match, the Spaniard said: "We played well, we had a good feeling and we're happy to be in the quarters. We'll see what happens in Friday's draw.

"The fans the difficulty of the Champions League but we are closer than a few hours ago. We know how hard it is to win and go through. We must keep a cool head and go game by game."

Barcelona captain Puyol however was confident of reaching a successive spot in the finals and believes that the squad has re-discovered the form that made them unstoppable last season.

"We have recovered and now the best is still to come. We play for two very important titles."

Brazilian full back Alves was happy with the work rate of the team and echoed the words of his captain, stating it was more like the "real" Barcelona as he looked forward to Friday's draw.

"It was the work and effort of the whole team. It was a game like the real Barcelona. We play with this spirit, enjoyed by all. We are on the right track. It is a very difficult competition and it's hard to win. The team is getting there and hopefully get past the next round and be closer to our goal," he remarked.

"We are very happy. The work today was remarkable. In this competition there are no weak opponents. People have this dream in their head. If you're defending a title you're usually the favorite, but I think each game in the Champions League is like a World Cup. We must go again, looking at each team and see how the draw goes.

C. Ronaldo and Benzema are stars to shine : Manuel Pellegrini

2010-02-15T22:56:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini has admitted his side are feeling confident ahead of the Champions League clash against Lyon in France tomorrow evening, despite being knocked out of the competition at this phase for the last five years.

"The squad is optimistic,” he told a press conference this evening. “We feel confident in the possibility of making it through rather than frustration for failing to do so in recent years."

The Chilean also confirmed French striker Karim Benzema has recovered from his injury and was looking forward to returning to his former stomping ground.

"Benzema is ready to play. He is very happy. Karim is a very important player and people love him here. No doubt the match will be special to him."

The coach also hinted that 'CR9' would be the one to inspire the team to conquer their round-of-16 demons once and for all.

"Cristiano's strength always gives the team a boost in every way. We want to use him to try to help us earn a favorable result here, unlike those earned by the team in recent campaigns."

Pellegrini also confirmed that Brazilian star Kaka had finally put his injury woes behind him and has been playing great.

“Kaka is now playing phenomenally well because he no longer feels any pain. Let's see how far he can really go," he concluded.

Beckham To Celebrate If He Scores Against MU : Seedorf

2010-02-15T22:55:00.001-08:00

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf has revealed that team-mate David Beckham should celebrate if he scores against his former club Manchester United.

The Dutchman also stated that in his eyes, Barcelona and Chelsea are the favorites to win the prestigious tournament, as both the Red Devils and Rossoneri are in a transitional phase.

"Neither team are amongst the favorites to win the Champions League. We are considered as being outsiders," Seedorf stated to The Sun. "The English side are going through a transition period caused by the sale of Cristano Ronaldo.

"We are in the same boat, having lost Kaka and [Paolo] Maldini and arriving in their place new players and a new coach. In any way, we will do everything we can to arrive at the end.

"Barcelona and Chelsea are in pole position to win.

"Should Beckham score, he must celebrate his goal. It has nothing to do with respect.

"Scoring in a match of this caliber is something extraordinary. He will be very emotional, but am sure that he will do well," concluded Seedorf.

Lyon Is Tough: Iker Casillas

2010-02-15T22:43:00.000-08:00

February 16 2010 will be the craziest soccer game play of the year of Champions League. Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas is expecting a difficult test when his side face Lyon in the last 16 of this year's UEFA Champions League.

Casillas is aware of Lyon's dip in form domestically and although the Ligue 1 side have seen a number of their top players leave, including Casillas' team-mate Karim Benzema, he still feels they will cause problems for Los Merengues.

"It is true that the latest clashes with Lyon have been more bad than good, but back then only Raul, Guti, [Sergio] Ramos, and myself played. We've created a great team and I reckon with this squad we can progress to the quarter finals but that doesn't mean Lyon won't be a difficult hurdle for Real Madrid," the 28-year-old shot stopper told a press conference.

"Maybe this year they are suffering more in the league, but all teams change. Their great players, including [Mahamadou] Diarra and [Karim] Benzema have signed in recent years for other teams. But if they have the same mentality as years ago, they will be a fast team, with very good balance and very dangerous from free-kicks. Surely the climate is also a handicap for us.

"We would like to score a goal and not concede. 1-0 would be the ideal result for us."

Chelsea Will Beat Jose Mourinho's Inter

2010-02-09T11:44:00.001-08:00

Carlo Ancelotti has said Chelsea will beat Jose Mourinho's Inter in their Champions League last 16 double header.

Ancelotti is keen to silence rival and former Blues coach Mourinho, who has already boasted: "Of course Inter will beat Chelsea."

"Inter couldn't have got a worse opponent. It will not be Ancelotti-Mourinho, but a really tough match," Ancelotti told La Repubblica.

"We couldn't have got tougher opponents, but we have everything: physique, quality; we can win in many different ways."

Ancelotti has settled down well in west London and he plans to stay there as he rules out a job with Italy after the World Cup.

"The Premier League is difficult compared to Serie A," he added.

"After Lippi? I will not be there as I have a contract with Chelsea. I will apply in 2030 when Italy will win the World Cup again.

"I have studied the statistics. We win it every 24 years. Every 12 we end up in the final and lose, so I will leave that to someone else."

Ronaldo is Better Than Beckhem: Ruud Gullit

2010-02-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

Ruud Gullit reckons David Beckham will be under intense pressure when AC Milan take on Manchester United this month.

Gullit believes that Sir Alex Ferguson will do all he can to ensure Beckham does not get a happy homecoming.

In an interview for Barclay's Spaces for Sports, the former Milan and Dutch striker said: "I think that Ferguson will do everything to make it hard for him to play at Old Trafford.

"He won't say to the fans, ‘Give David a nice welcome'. He wants to win the game.

"I think that Ferguson will do anything he can when it comes to mind games."

From Friends to Foes - Five men to threat their old stomping grounds

Gullit also spoke about Ferguson's decision to let Beckham go, which proved to be a good decision in the end.

He added: "You can see, as with Beckham, Jaap Stam and Van Nistelrooy, once there is a problem with the manager, you leave United.

"You can't blame Ferguson for Beckham going, because after that United won everything Ferguson wanted to win, including the Champions League again.

"You can't say he was wrong in terms of what happened afterward. He got Ronaldo - who was even a bigger player than David.

"Beckham will be very emotional. It will demand a lot of him to perform as he wants to perform.

"I'm curious as to how they will receive him at Old Trafford. It will be a great moment for him, which doesn't mean he is going to play well."

Will Beckham be able to inspire his Milan team-mates and put one over his former employers; For further Action keep tuned yourself with this blog.

Beckham's First Love

2010-02-06T11:21:00.000-08:00

David Beckham, a product of the club's famed youth system, left United in 2003 to join Real Madrid after making 265 appearances in 12 trophy-laden years in Manchester.

Following a surprise move to LA Galaxy his best years appeared to be behind him but two subsequent loan switches to Milan have catapulted him back into the spotlight, for football reasons, and rejuvenated his international career.

Ahead of what are likely to be an engaging couple of games he has spoken of what it will mean to play against a club forever close to his heart.

"When I was at Real Madrid it just never felt right to come back to Old Trafford," he told Inside United magazine.

"The thought of playing United always gives me that sick feeling because I missed the club so much.

"The first few years away were hard and there were a lot of things I missed. It was the club I always wanted to play for and I loved every minute of my time there.

"I always wish I was part of Manchester United, it's just in me. Even though I'm not there any more, I'm still a huge fan and watch every game where possible.

"I always want them to do well and be successful because the club still means so much to me.

"When the draw was made it just felt it was the right time to go back. There isn't one player I'm particularly looking forward to facing. I'm just looking forward to being a part of it all and savouring the atmosphere in both games.

"Returning to Old Trafford is going to be special and a very emotional night. I've spoken to Gary Neville since the draw and we both believe it's going to be a great tie."

Benzema is excited for Lyon clash

2010-02-06T03:31:00.000-08:00

This year’s Champions League campaign is very special for Real Madrid because the final will be played at the Bernabeu stadium. To reach their dream final, Real will first have to see off Olympique Lyon, their opponents in the eight finals.

The meeting with the French giants is extra special for Real striker Karim Benzema, who left Lyon to join Los Merengues this summer.

The France international scored two vital goals in the important match against Deportivo la Coruna.

As a key foreard player, Benzema knows what counts. “It is always important for a striker to score,” he told the club’s official website.

“Scoring is just as good as providing an assist. I enjoy both.”

After a faltering start, the 22-year-old forward seems to found the right track at Real, he still has a bright future on way.

“It was hard at first, but the process has made me grow as a player and person. I have never once regretted my decision. You have ups and downs in football, and this is part of the process.”

Benzema looks forward upon meeting his former Lyon teammates, when the French side hosts the Spanish giants on February 16. He is very excited for the big clash.

“It’s going to be a great match. I grew up and spent my whole career in Lyon. It will be a bittersweet moment. I hope I receive a warm welcome because of all the years I spent there.”

“They are a great team and they always seem to do well in the Champions League. Other than losing in the Cup, they have done nothing but win in 2010. We need to be very careful.”

Benzema is aware that this year’s Champions League campaign is extra special but insists La Liga is just as important for Real.

“It is very special this year because the (Champions League) final is being played at the Bernabeu and we want to win it, but that doesn’t make La Liga any less significant.”

Fernando Torres For Sale?

2010-02-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

According to the Daily Mail, Michel Platini is close to establishing strict financial criteria clubs must meet in order to participate in the Champions League.

Clubs that make consecutive losses over three seasons will be barred from the competition if the new regulations are passed by the UEFA organization.

Clubs such as Chelsea and Manchester City are also said to be in trouble as both respective owners have been writing off their clubs' huge debts.

Chelsea posted a £44.4million loss last season, which was their sixth consecutive season posting a massive loss.

Manchester City posted losses of £92m in Sheik Mansour’s first year of ownership and could match Chelsea's record loss of £140m from 2005 in the coming years.

With Liverpool posting a loss of £40.9m in 2008, the £40m sale of Torres would help offset the loss and allow the club to participate in the competition.

If Chelsea, Manchester City or Liverpool have any ambitions in the Champions League, the new proposed regulations might hinder their opportunities.

No Regrets For Beckham : Ferguson

2010-02-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Beckham was near the height of his powers when he was sold by United to Real Madrid in 2003 but Ferguson feels the matter has long since been consigned to history.

The pair will be reunited this month when the Red Devils take on the midfielder's current club, AC Milan, in the Champions League.

Ferguson is now more concerned about how his players will handle the inevitable attention that will accompany Beckham during the last-16 tie than wondering about what might have been.

When asked about the player's £25million move from Old Trafford, Ferguson told the club's official magazine 'Inside United': "No regrets. We move on."

He added: "The only difference with David's return to Manchester United compared with other players is that there will be a big media circus surrounding him when Milan arrive.

"He's such a high-profile celebrity - not just a high-profile footballer - and we haven't really seen anybody else return to the club in that situation.

"Our job is to concentrate on the football match and let the David Beckham media circus carry on - we know we're not going to stop it anyway."

Former England captain Beckham, 34, is now on loan at Milan having been given permission by parent club Los Angeles Galaxy to sharpen his game in Europe ahead of the World Cup.

Ferguson is not surprised to see Beckham back at the San Siro for a second spell and added: "I think I told him myself last year when I saw him before our game against Inter that he should be thinking about getting back to Europe if he wanted to go to the World Cup.

"And it looks like he might just get his wish now. He had a good spell with Milan last time, so it made sense to me to see him back there again."

United travel to Milan on February 16 before hosting the Italians in the second leg three weeks later. Ferguson sees the tie as United's biggest fixture of the season so far and said: "I think so, yes.

"The European Cup is always special to us and we've had some marvellous nights at Old Trafford. I just hope we have another one.

"We're away from home in the first leg, which won't be easy, but I'm certain the tie will be decided back at Old Trafford."

Kaka's dream to win UEFA Champions League Tittle

2010-02-03T05:55:00.000-08:00

Brazilian Top scorer is very much excited for the UEFA Champions league tittle race.

Real Madrid attacking midfielder Kaka has declared that he would rather win the UEFA Champions League over the Primera Liga title and says it would be a dream to win Europe's premier trophy at the Bernabeu on May 22.

"It would be a dream [to win the final at the Bernabeu]. We will do everything to be there. I'd rather win the Champions League, it is the most important tournament," he said to AS.

The Brazilian also stated that his team proved earlier this season that they are a match for Barcelona. Despite losing to the Blaugrana at Camp Nou at the end of November, Kaka insisted that his side could have won and added that they learned a lot from that game.

"Everyone says they're the best team [Barcelona], but we could have won. The team grew in that game," he said.

David Backham Return in UEFA Champions league

2010-02-01T07:37:00.000-08:00

David Backham admitted that it is incredible for him to return against Manchester United in UEFA Champions league knockout phase.

Backham return to his boyhood club since he left Real Madrid in 2003.

David Backham waiting anxiously for the day of event as he admit that he misses his club everyday.

"It’s such a special occasion - to be there in front of the fans, manager and friends. It’s going to be incredible,” he said as he began his second spell on loan with Milan.

“I don’t know whether I’ll be happy if we lose because I’d like to progress further in the competition and when you come up against a club that you support and a club that you spent so many great years at and [you’ve] still got so many friends at the club, those things are always difficult.

"But it’s a nice problem to have because I’ve never returned to Old Trafford as a player. In seven years I miss it every day".

"I miss being a Manchester United player, I miss the club, I miss the fans and friends at the club. It’s always going to be a special place in my heart".

"To return as an AC Milan player makes it extra special".

"That’s the big thing for me, to return with a team like this and a club like this. It’s got so much history, which is the same with Manchester United."

Ronaldinho to stay with AC-Milan

2010-02-01T03:03:00.000-08:00

Ronaldinho's brother and agent Roberto De Assis has put an end to any

debate regarding the Brazilian's future at Milan by claiming he will
remain with the Diavolo.

De Assis was clear and free from reservation in his remarks when
questioned about the Rossoneri ace following the 2-0 loss to Inter.
His reponse seems to add weight to reports in Il Corriere Dello Sport
last week that claimed Ronaldinho was in line for an extension until
2013.

"Will Ronaldinho stay at Milan? For sure," De Assis told
Sportmediaset.it.

The agent was at San Siro to watch his brother in action as Milan
slipped up, meaning they are now nine points behind Inter.
Ronaldinho had a penalty saved by Julio Cesar in injury time of the
match, and Milannews.it claims the striker apologised to fans in the
stands after the game for his mistake.

Rooney "Maddly waiting for UEFA Knockout"

2010-01-31T11:02:00.000-08:00

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is curious to travel to Italy on February 16 to take on Euorpian AC Milan in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

The Red Devils have been paired with the seven-time European champions and the English people are waiting to watch the real battle again between these two unbeatable clubs.

“Playing at San Siro is always special,” Rooney told La Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper.

“Milan are a really great side. But we are aware of our worth and are equipped to win. Then again, it is a difficult tournament where details play a big role.”

But Manchester United should not under estimate the A.C Milan as they defeat them 2 years back, Histroy can repeat it self so good preparation and hard work is the only tool to win the war.

Ronaldinho is back to his best form and David Beckham is itching to face his former side, but Rooney warns to keep a closer eye on Clarence Seedorf.

“He is probably the strongest player I have ever faced,” he admitted.

“You can’t keep him out, because I have rarely seen someone else do what he does.

“Ronaldinho is incredible and a fantastic talent. David is a champion who made United’s history. It will be exciting to play against him.”

Messi's Uefa Champions League Highlights

2010-01-17T06:31:00.000-08:00

Messi thrashing his opponents in season 08-09...What a Man!

Cristiano Ronaldo Love to see Barca in Final

2010-01-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid winger Cristiano Ronaldo is targeting a dream UEFA Champions League final - victory over Barcelona at the Bernabeu. The two Spanish clubs, who are tussling it out at the top of the Primera Division, are both in the last 16 of Europe's premier club competition. And Ronaldo would love nothing more than to dethrone Madrid's bitter rivals on his own turf. He wants to see his rivals in the most fabulous competition final of soccer world.

"It would be a spectacle to be able to play the final in the Santiago Bernabeu," the Portugal international told Correio da Manha."

"As much for the players as for the fans."

"I hope to meet Barcelona in this final and beat them."

Ronaldo spent around two months on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury during a UEFA Champions League clash at Marseille back in September. Since his return he has scored four goals in as many games and the 24-year-old hopes he has put his injury woes firmly behind him.

"I hope I don't have more injuries and so can help Real Madrid win all the competitions they are in this season," added Ronaldo. "And not just for next year but also for the future."

Madrid are two points behind Barca in the standings, and seven ahead of third-placed Sevilla.

And Ronaldo sent out an ominous warning to the rest of the Spanish league. He said: "I am full of confidence that we are going to get much better in the rest of the season."

John O'Shea Injured

2010-01-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

John O'Shea may not be able to play the UEFA champiuons league fist knockout leg of Manchester United against AC milan as manager Sir Alex Ferguson said the defender's thigh injury is likely to keep him sidelined for a further two months.

The player got injured during his International clash against France on 18 November, and he is not recovery very much.

Sir Alex saying: "There is no sign at all of a recovery at the moment. It's a big loss because he's such a versatile player. It could be a couple of months yet."

There was better news on fellow defenders Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand, though, with both returning to light training following injury lay-offs. United meet Milan on 16 February and 10 March for a place in the quarter-finals of Europe's premier club competition.

UEFA Champions League DRAW

2009-12-31T23:44:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid Is almost There! Kaka. Uefa Champios League

2009-10-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

The match was one of the highly energied game of the year. The viewers have perminant impact of the UEFA Champuions Leauge Qualify clash between Ac- Milan and Real Madrid.
The triumph marked a return to form for Alexandre Pato, and it was a special night for Kaka, who took to the field against his former team for the first time since joining Los Merengues.

Kaka said:, "I'm sorry that we lost against my old team tonight, but Pato is a very strong player,"

"I was hoping to get a win, but we weren't able to. I hope that we can get it right next time, so we can qualify from the group stage".

"In the end we will qualify though," the Brazilian playmaker added.

Kaka took some time to talk about Milan's alleged downfall, which he expunged as a myth.
He continued, "I never believed that Milan were in crisis. After six years at the club, I knew that they were still very strong in Europe.

"At the key moments, they have the grit required to win."

Kaka greeted his former running mates well before the match, and was among them after the game. He even managed to exchange his shirt for two Rossoneri shirts after the showdown.

"Who did I exchange my shirts with? One with Ambrosini and one with Inzaghi," he concluded.

Beside the defeat the Real Madrid still qualify and the Viewrs have keen sye on their performance as they have major star Icons of UEFA Champions League.

Evra...Is He Really Important For RM Clash?

2009-10-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

Evra the Star for Manchester United is already set to miss the Biggest clash of this years Champions League. According to the star player...

"I know we will play Real Madrid," the French international told Inside United.

"I can't explain it. It is just a feeling. But I think we will play them, maybe even in the next round."

"I once played against him in an Under-21 international but remember, I used to face him every day in training. He knows it could be very difficult for him," said Evra.

"Ronaldo was a close friend and I was sad to see him leave. But you need to accept it.

"And the thing about Manchester United is, no one player is the star - the club is the star. Sir Alex Ferguson tries to maintain that every year."

Because I am a close friend of Ji there has been this reaction," said Evra.

"This is what happens when you play for United. You go to every part of the world and everybody loves you.

"I am still good friends with Carlos but it was painful when I saw him with the City shirt on.

"He was upset by the booing but he understands."

The fans are really looking forward for such a big clash of the year and hoping to see all their favorite stars playing on the same ground.

Drogba Nomore In UEFA

2009-06-20T00:25:00.000-07:00

The Chealsea Super star striker was banned in the last semi final of the Uefa Champions league match while reacting against stubborn decisions of referee. The management took keen notice to this issue as to this incident and Drogba was seems to be banned for the UEFA Champions league. Recently Decision was made to ban Drogba for the UEFA Champions League permanently.UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body also handed a four-match ban, the last game suspended for two years, to right-back Jose Bosingwa.
But the severity of UEFA's punishment stunned the Blues who have now informed Europe's governing body of their intent to appeal against the punishment.
Chelsea's message to UEFA also gives them more time to prepare their case. The Blues now have another six days in which to lodge their appeal.Chelsea are also expected to appeal against their fine of 100,000 euros for the improper conduct of their players and for the throwing of missiles by their supporters.

Who Gonna Replace 7 Number

2009-06-16T00:42:00.000-07:00

Now that Cristiano Ronaldo is gone to Real Madrid, Manchester United need to look for replacements. I’m sure Alex Ferguson knew that Ronaldo leaving was coming sooner or later so he’s probably written down a few names he’d like to see playing for the Red Devils instead of Ronaldo. But can the replacement come from within? We look at Nani, Karim Benzema and Frank Ribery and a few maybe more unlikely names and figure out who’ll be the right man instead of the new most expensive soccer player in the world.

NANI

Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, or Nani as most people know him. He’s Portuguese, he plays on the right wing, he is a fantastic dribbler… Suitable for replacing Ronaldo, no? ehhh… He can take his place but probably won’t be as productive as Ronaldo. Why?
He just doesn’t score like Ronaldo. He doesn’t have a powerful shot like him and despite also having a knack for shooting the ball at goal at every opportunity he has, Nani has only 4 league goals in 38 appearances since arriving at Old Trafford. That’s the problem with filling the Ronaldo gap - although a Right/Left Wing player on paper, he was much more - a play maker, a striker, a finisher, especially in the last two seasons and replacing his 66 league goals in the last three seasons will be mighty difficult for Nani. Nani is a good player right now with the potential to be a very good one, maybe even excellent, but he won’t produce the numbers his former Sporting Lisbon teammate produced.

To me Nani is the most eligible replacement of the hero Ronaldo for the Manchester United If they want to retain their winning streak otherwise The days Of Man untd seems to be over.

CL Final 2009: Man Utd Vs Barca (Goals)

2009-05-29T02:42:00.000-07:00

Top Scorer Of Uefa Champios League 2009

2009-05-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

Team Player Goals
Barcelona Lionel Messi 9
Liverpool Steven Gerrard 7
Bayren Miroslav Klose 7
Porto Lisandro 6
Juventus Alessandro Del Piero 5
Lyon Karim Benzema 5
Arsenal Robin van Persie 5
Barcelona Thierry Henry 5

Final Results Of Champios League 2009

2009-05-28T20:30:00.000-07:00

Man utd 0
Barcelona 2

The Champions League Anthem:

2009-05-26T22:56:00.000-07:00

Champions League Final 2008 (Penalty Shootout)

2009-05-26T22:52:00.000-07:00

ROME: The Big Final

2009-05-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

CL FINAL 2009: Utd Vs Barca (Trailer)

2009-05-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

"Ronaldo can Make History". Uefa Champios League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:54:00.000-07:00

Ronaldo, who admits his affection for Spanish football, claims that means much more to him than winning the world footballer of the year trophy last season when he beat Barcelona's Lionel Messi into second place.

Ronaldo said: "I like the Spanish league.

"I feel well in England in the Premier League, it is the strongest league. Barcelona have a great team which deserves respect but I believe we are better than them and we will show it.

"I respect Barcelona profoundly. Messi is playing marvellously well. I want to be sincere. I have to play well tomorrow for the team and the supporters. I look forward to it and I think it will be really special.

"I don't care about the Ballon D'or. What I want more is to win the Champions League. That's it.

"I just want to be the first team in history to win it twice."

Ronaldo has dismissed any fears about playing in white, like the Real Madrid side who were annihilated 6-2 by Barcelona recently.

He also insisted he is happy to carry the burden of the spotlight which constantly surrounds him.

"It's normal that people speak about me but I am 100% focused on this game," he said.

"I try to help my team 100%, score a goal and win the game. That's it."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson also gave an insight into what makes Ronaldo United's most potent threat and why he constantly conjures up feats such as the 41-yard free-kick screamer which broke Arsenal hearts in the semi-final second leg at the Emirates.

Ferguson said: "There's no mystery. He's always out there after the team training has finished, practising his shots. The great players don't rely on their natural ability, they practice to make sure they have that something extra.

"In the semi-final against Arsenal I could tell he was going to hit it, from the body shape, even though it was so far out."

Messi In Uefa Champions League Final

2009-05-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

A member of the first Barcelona team to win the European Cup with a 1-0 victory over Sampdoria 17 years ago at Wembley, Guardiola has led the Catalan outfit to a Primera Liga and Copa del Rey double in his first season at the helm.
He will now attempt to earn a place on the privileged list of five men who have won the European trophy as both player and coach.
Guardiola will also attempt to help Barca become the first Spanish treble winners with a victory in Rome.
"I could never have imagined anything like this at the beginning of the season," said the 38-year-old.
"I just wanted to do a good job, but in my first year to win the League, the cup and to be here, one step away from being European champions, is great.
"We cannot deny that it has been a great season.
"I have been fortunate to have a great team and we've been able to do well.
"But we can still do better."
Guardiola knows Manchester United have few weaknesses.
Sir Alex Ferguson's team go into the clash on a record 25-match unbeaten run in the competition.
United have a superb defensive record in this season's competition with just six goals conceded, but Guardiola is respectful of the whole team.
"I think Manchester United have lots of virtues," he said. "If we are not strong in defence they will attack and it is a team that attacks well.
"If it has to defend, it defends with humility and if it has to counter-attack, they are deadly.
Barca will rely on the inspiration of Spanish internationals Xavi and Andres Iniesta in midfield, while they hope Lionel Messi can maintain his form in front of goal.
Messi is the competition's top scorer with eight goals this season.
"We are going to see a great Messi," said Guardiola. "He is in good form and the team will help him to deliver.
"If we play in the way we can play, then Messi will have a good game."
Much of the focus has been on Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo but Guardiola feels any player could decide the game.
Barcelona last won the Champions League three years ago when beating Arsenal in the final in Paris with defender Julian Belletti scoring the winner.
"I don't know if the game will be decided by star players," Guardiola said. "Of course, because they are stars they have more responsibility.
"Both (Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo) are very good players."
Guardiola has remained tight-lipped on whether Thierry Henry or Iniesta will play.
Both have been sidelined since the beginning of the month through injury but are fighting against the clock to earn a place in the starting XI.
"We still have one training session," said Guardiola. "We will see what their condition is.
"If they are well, they will play.

"Goals Not A Problem", Manchester Utd

2009-05-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

Most notably in the 1999 final when they turned things around against Bayern Munich with two goals in injury time - but recently it is when the goals have gone in which have been significant.
A month ago their successful defence of the Barclays Premier League title hung in the balance when they trailed Tottenham 2-0 with almost an hour gone before a fortuitous penalty got them going and they won 5-2.

"When we need the goals we score the goals," said Vidic ahead of the clash in Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

"A few games we were one or two goals down and won the games. We have shown when we need to score the goals our attackers can.

"We are not a team that is just going to go there and defend. We want to attack."

Many believe a match between the English and Spanish champions is the perfect climax to UEFA's showpiece event but Vidic said that was not a concern for the players.

They were thinking more about their own performances than those of the opposition or what a spectacle it would be.

"It is the big game but we are thinking about the trophy," he added.

"Barcelona are a good team but I don't think in ways of it being the 'best final'.

"Any team that gets to the final is a good team and it will be a good final.

"It is not going to be easy because they have good players, especially up front.

"In the Spanish league they have shown some good football and scored many goals.

"We respect them but we think more about us, how are we going to do and what we are going to do."

Vidic could well line-up alongside youngster Jonny Evans, whom he partnered for the final three league matches they played in, as Rio Ferdinand remains a fitness doubt.

Vidic, however, is hopeful his team-mate will make it somehow.

"I don't want to think that he will not play," he said.

"He is an important player for us and I think he will make it."

Ironically, in Barcelona's Gerard Pique United will come up against a centre-back they sold last year because he wanted more first-team football and could not break the Vidic-Ferdinand partnership.

Historic Battles: Man Utd Vs Barcelona

2009-05-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

Barcelona 2 Manchester United 3 (aggregate), March 1984

In the first leg of the European Cup Winners' Cup quarter-final at the Nou Camp, Barca were clearly superior but did not overwhelm United, winning 2-0 courtesy of Graeme Hogg's own goal and Rojo's brilliant strike from distance.

In the return, Bryan Robson's first-half diving header gave the English side the breakthrough they needed. Robson got the all-important second early in the second half and with the momentum clearly with them, United completed a stunning turnaround as Frank Stapleton blasted home the winner.

Manchester United 2 Barcelona 1, May 1991

After the ban on English clubs competing in Europe, the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup final in Rotterdam was United's opportunity to end a 23-year European trophy drought. Johan Cruyff's great Barca side - who were to win their first European Cup at Wembley a year later - were without goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta and key midfielder Guillermo Amor through suspension and star striker Hristo Stoichkov through injury. United seized their chance as Barca reject Mark Hughes struck twice in the second half before Ronald Koeman's goal prompted a tense finish at De Kuip.

Barcelona 4 Manchester United 0, November 1994

United ran into Cruyff's 'Dream Team' at precisely the wrong time. Battered 4-0 by AC Milan in the previous season's final, Barca had a lot to prove in the Champions League group-stage clash. The first group game at Old Trafford ended in a 2-2 draw - Hughes and Lee Sharpe scoring for United, Romario and Jose Mari Bakero for Barca. In the return the following month, the forward pairing of Stoichkov and Romario were superb, ripping apart a United side robbed of goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel due to the limit on foreign players. Stoichkov (two), Romario and Albert Ferrer all found a way past Gary Walsh and his bewildered backline.

Manchester United 3 Barcelona 3, September 1998

Another Champions League group-stage encounter produced one of the most memorable matches between the sides, purely for entertainment value. Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs scored within three minutes of each other early in the match before Brazilians Sonny Anderson and Giovanni (penalty) brought Barca level before the hour mark. David Beckham typically restored United's lead but Luis Enrique's 71st-minute penalty secured a point.

Barcelona 3 Manchester United 3, November 1998

Miraculously the sides did it all over again two months later. This time Barca led first, through Anderson, but the irresistible combination of Dwight Yorke (two) and Andy Cole saw Barca trail twice with Rivaldo levelling both times, before hitting the bar with a late effort to win it. Sir Alex Ferguson's side finished second in Group D ahead of Barca and famously went on to win the tournament on that same Nou Camp turf, while Barca, finishing third, crashed out of the competition.

Barcelona 0 Manchester United 1 (aggregate), April 2008

The first leg of the Champions League semi-final promised to showcase the talents of two of the most exciting football sides at the Nou Camp but failed to live up to the hype. United squandered a golden opportunity to open the scoring in the third minute when Cristiano Ronaldo missed an early penalty. Barca dominated the remainder of the game but despite long spells of possession were unable to create many genuine goalscoring chances.

While Barcelona did not enjoy quite as much possession in the return leg, they still had United chasing shadows at times. Rio Ferdinand and Wes Brown were pillars of strength in defence as Deco, Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi all threatened. However, an early 30-yard strike from Scholes proved to be the only goal of the game as United ended a nine-year wait to reach the final.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:24:00.001-07:00

CRISTIANO RONALDO (forward)
Ronaldo is United's most potent attacking force and their main goal threat, whether it be from set-pieces or open play, but much depends on his attitude - although he is unlikely to get as rough a ride from Barcelona as he would in the Premier League.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

WAYNE ROONEY (forward)
Rooney's drive and determination, coupled with his immense talent, make him the most all-round player in the squad and although Ronaldo steals the headlines, it is the versatile England forward who is at the heart of everything.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

PARK JI-SUNG (midfielder)
The South Korean's high-energy game and unstinting running mean United's workhorse is consistently reliable and he will be keen to make up for the disappointment of not being selected for last year's final.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

RIO FERDINAND (defender)
Despite a couple of niggling injuries Ferdinand has, with regular partner Nemanja Vidic, provided the platform of United's success this season and an improvement in his reading of the game has undoubtedly helped that.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

EDWIN VAN DER SAR (goalkeeper)
The former Holland international has brought a consistent excellence to a position which had been United's weak spot and has been on top form this season.

GARY NEVILLE (defender)Injury and age are catching up with the veteran club captain but his experience is invaluable and with one Champions League final and numerous European campaigns behind him, a placeInjury and age are catching up with the veteran club captain but his experience is invaluable and with one Champions League final and numerous European campaigns behind him, a place in the squad is more than justified.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

THIERRY HENRY (forward)Arsenal's all-time record goalscorer took his time to settle in Catalonia following his switch in summer 2007, but has now found his feet and bagged 25 goals in all competitions so far this term. Doubtful for Rome after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament strain in his right knee in 6-2 win at Real Madrid on May 2.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:57:00.001-07:00

LIONEL MESSI (forward)Runner-up to Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year voting, the diminuitive Argentina forward has continued to blossom over the past 12 months under Guardiola. Sure to strike fear in the heart of any defence - whether playing up front, just off the main striker or on the wing.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:55:00.001-07:00

ANDRES INIESTA (midfielder)Talented midfielder in the Xavi mould, Iniesta is less defensively capable but has a composure and intelligence beyond his years. A useful dribbler with an excellent passing range, Iniesta broke Chelsea hearts in the semi-final with a stoppage-time away goal past Petr Cech to earn Barca their place in Rome.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

XAVI (midfielder)Often underrated in the past, the 29-year-old was recognised as the player of the tournament after Spain's triumphant Euro 2008 campaign and has gone from strength to strength under the tutelage of Pep Guardiola. Composed on the ball, a danger from set-pieces and simply one of the best passers of a ball in the world.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

CARLES PUYOL (defender)Only 5ft 11in but with immense physical strength and a fine turn of pace, Puyol is the rock at the heart of the Blaugrana defence. A Barcelona boy through and through, he was a frustrated spectator in the semi-final second leg at Chelsea through suspension and will be chomping at the bit at the thought of getting his hands on the Champions League trophy for the second time.

Heros Of Champions League Final 2009

2009-05-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

VICTOR VALDES (goalkeeper)

The only Barca regular uncapped at senior international level, Valdes' tendency to make the odd error has led to him being viewed in some quarters as a weak link. But he is a fantastic shot-stopper, and the 27-year-old has rarely missed a match in La Liga or the Champions League this term and generally been a solid performer throughout.

Ronney Gonna Rock In Final

2009-05-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

The personal battle between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in Wednesday night's Champions League final in Rome, Rooney's presence has largely been ignored.
However, it is felt that had voting been taken now, the former Everton star would have been close to landing the PFA player of the year prize, with England set to benefit in next month's World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra.
And Desailly, who won the European Cup with AC Milan as well as the World Cup with France, feels Rooney has deserved the accolade of one of the world's best.
"Rooney is a world class player," said the former Chelsea star.
"He is among the elite, there is no doubt in my mind about that at all.
"The only problem is the England national team have not done anything to confirm it."
Desailly feels Rooney's arrival on the scene as a callow teenager at Euro 2004 has tended to obscure the vast improvements he has made to his game.
Aside from goalscoring and forceful attacking play, Rooney has also learned the art of defending and it is likely he will be asked to provide assistance to Patrice Evra on the United left as the Premier League champions attempt to subdue Messi.
"Wayne came into the game such a long time ago," said Desailly.
"Since then he has shown how good he is, both tactically and technically.
"With the goals as well he has shown he is an amazing player. He is top class."
Yet Desailly does not believe Rooney's contribution will be enough to allow United to become the first side to retain the European Cup since it was rebranded as the Champions League.
"For the players it would be something special to retain the Champions League," he said.
"You have all that pressure to deal with and have been working all year to get there.
"If you look at the two teams, they are both full of exceptionally gifted players.
"But Barcelona have a bit extra. They can hold their shape from the beginning to the end. They are the ones I think will win."
The Final Gonna be real Rocking as Manited ia all set for the final .... Fan are ansiously waitnig for tonight's battle.

UEFA punishment would be Miserable

2009-05-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

Hiddink had no qualms about selecting Drogba. He said: "We do not live with headlines, whether they are right or not, that is not the big issues.

"Drogba has always fought for the team.

"Everyone has talked about the incident afterwards, but in the game there were no incidents, everyone respected each other.

"He [Drogba] saw what he did wrong and apologised strongly.

"We do not know what is going to happen regarding that, but when the people in charge at UEFA they have the feeling of being football people and not bureaucratic authorities, then they might perfectly understand that the big apology of his was okay.

"So I do not expect much from that, it would be curious I think."

Hiddink praised Drogba's attitude. "We said 'everyone is focused on you, but if you play the simple game you have, you have efficiency for the team', which he did," said Hiddink.

Asked if he believed Drogba had indeed taken a tumble, Wenger said: "We live in a league now where the divers are rewarded. It is not right, but it is like that.

"I do not want to go into any individual assessments. It is down to the referee to do his job.

"I don't think it (the free-kick) should have been given, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't win the header after that. The referee will make some decisions for you or against you, but we should still have cleared the ball from the cross.

"UEFA Final will be memorable", Sir Alex Ferguson

2009-05-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ferguson is ready to let his players do the work themselves, knowing if the powerhouses of England and Spain fulfil their immense potential, it could be an all-time classic.

"You had a feeling that night in Barcelona and obviously there was fate attached to last year as well," said the United boss.

"That happens. But I think this type of game might be beyond fate.

"It has the capability to be a fantastic final."

Merely by electing to wear white shirts, Ferguson had to answer comparisons with the last team to face Barcelona facing such a colour, Real Madrid, who were promptly beaten 6-2 in their own Bernabeu backyard.

"That wasn't a defeat, it was annihilation," said Ferguson, before adding pointedly: "We are very happy playing white and we are better than Madrid!"

United have proved their strengths at home and abroad all season.

Their performances may have been lacking some of the sparkle from 12 months ago. But they have developed a tenacity and refusal to yield that might well come in handy tomorrow if they find themselves in the rare position of facing opponents who dominate possession.

"Neither team will want to give the ball away," he said. "That will make it a very interesting game.

"What we do with it compared to our opponents and how long we can keep it will be the deciding factor."

Before the 1999 epic, Ferguson famously warned his players not to leave themselves in the position of being able to see the most prestigious of trophies without being able to touch it.

The Scot is searching for similar inspiring words of wisdom, although so far they have proved elusive.

"These things usually happen to me about three in the morning when I am trying to get some inspiration from the deep chambers of my tiny little brain," he said. "But at the moment nothing is coming out."

Even at 67 it seems Ferguson is not beyond a sleepless night or two.

The truth is the enormity of what United can achieve in this most historic of cities should inspire all his players.

Title winners three times in succession, the Red Devils are bidding to add back-to-back European Cups.

No side has achieved it since the tournament was rebranded as the Champions League in 1992.

"I cannot explain why it hasn't been done," he said.

"In the history of the European Cup it was done regularly. Some won it two or three times in a row. There were cycles of teams winning it like Ajax, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

"Now we have an opportunity to change that and hopefully we can take it."

By changing it, United would get themselves a label any side would want. The label of being great.

It is not a discussion even the most aware of individuals like Rio Ferdinand wants to have, knowing talk can be cheap at this rarefied level of the game.

But if United win tomorrow, they will earn a place in history no-one will be able to erase.

Ferdinand In UEFA Cham,pions League Final

2009-05-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

The Manchester United defender has been struggling with a calf injury picked up in the semi-final, second leg at Arsenal earlier this month and did not make Sunday's Premier League trip to Hull as demanded by Sir Alex Ferguson.
He said:
"The injury is fine," he said. "I have been training and feel good. I am glad to be back."

That scenario does not appear likely, with Ferdinand insisting he would not risk the team by putting himself forward for selection if he was not 100%.

"I wouldn't do that," he said. "There is no way I will play if my fitness was detrimental to the team.

"Tomorrow is more about the team winning than me playing in a cup final.

"In any case, I have been working hard with the medical staff and training well. There are no problems. I am fine."

With Ferguson revealing no other injury concerns, he must wrestle overnight with a thorny selection dilemma.

United's defence picks itself, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney also appear certain of their places.

Michael Carrick is expected to be involved as well along with veteran Ryan Giggs, leaving midfield duo Anderson and Park Ji-sung, who did not even get a place on the bench against Chelsea last year, to scrap it out with Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov for the remaining two slots.

Barcelona Deserve Win In Uefa Champions League. Messi

2009-05-26T04:52:00.001-07:00

Lionel Messi claims Barcelona 'deserve' to win the Champions League Final.

The great striker of barcelona deserve a real win in champions league final as it is the most famous and defeat less time at a time.

Referring to his side's dramatic stoppage-time success over Chelsea in the semi-finals, he said: "We were suffering right up until stoppage time at Stamford Bridge. But that's one more proof that we deserve to win the Champions League.

Messi said
"The fact we beat Chelsea, and the manner in which we did it, shows Barcelona aren't just a good team - we have impressive mental strength too".

"In Spain, Chelsea gave us no space. They put four or five men in defence and we couldn't score past them. But that didn't make us give up.

"We were at their place and we were losing from early on but we gave them a fight right to the end.

"That last move was just glorious - my heart nearly exploded when I saw Andreas Inesita's shot go in."

The barcelona really rocked in the semi final, but they are also have to face real hard time against Manchester United in Rome.

Inista's Apperance in Uefa Final 2009

2009-05-26T04:40:00.000-07:00

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta is confident that he will have recovered from a thigh injury in time to play in the Champions League Final against Manchester United on May 27 2009.

Iniesta tore a thigh muscle during Barcelona's 3-3 draw with Villarreal on Sunday but insists it is only a minor injury.

He said: "It is a small tear that wasn't as bad as we thought.

he further mention, "I will be in Rome. The enthusiasm I have to play in the Final will help my recovery."
Terry Henry who is also struggiling for his fitness to play grand event of the year.

He said: "His presence is more than doubtful going into the match in Rome.

"His participation there in the Final is not guaranteed."

Alcohol Ban For UEFA Champions League Final

2009-05-26T02:46:00.000-07:00

The Manchester United take on Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League final in Rome with more than 67,000 fans expected to arrive in the Italian capital in the next two days.The event gonna be on of the most wanted moment for the world when 80% of world population watching it live.

In a bid to avoid incidents, local authorities have banned the sale of alcohol throughout the city and in airports and stations from 11pm on Tuesday until 6am on Thursday morning. The action have to be taken in place to avoid any kind of accidental possibility.

Lagerst Bid For Ronaldo

2009-05-26T02:38:00.000-07:00

After months of gossip and speculation, the News of the World newspaper is claiming that the Spanish giants real madrid will definitely be making an attempt to sign the Manchester United star once the current season ends in May.
the worlds largets bid of £100million has been offered to move to the largets club of Europe.
Despite Ramon Calderon, who has been the principal pursuer of Ronaldo, being ousted from his position as Real president, his potential replacement, Florentina Perez, has already gone on record to say that the dynamic Red Devil - and Brazil ace Kaka - are his principal transfer targets, a declaration that only serves to add a degree of credence to the News of the World's claims.
"There is a cleverly conceived plan in place for Cristiano to join Real," a Spanish source told the paper.
"The reports that he is unhappy with the treatment he gets in England is part of it and will be used as a lever for him to get his dream move to Madrid.
"Of course, it will have to be achieved with United's approval but part of the strategy is to keep chipping away at their resistance until they give in."
"I would love him to join Madrid" Ronaldo said. He has already said that he wants to come and I hope that next season he is with us.
the question arise here is that will ronaldo really ripe to leave for real madrid, who gonna replace ronaldo in Man Utd?.....The heat is on!

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:30:00.000-07:00

2009-05-26T02:28:00.000-07:00

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:26:00.000-07:00

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:24:00.001-07:00

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:22:00.002-07:00

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:22:00.001-07:00

Memories Of UEFA Champions Leagues Final 2008

2009-05-26T02:12:00.000-07:00

Road To Rome

2009-05-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

UEFA's Most Favorite

2009-05-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

Heros Of Champions League In Action

2009-05-20T05:51:00.000-07:00

Heros Of Champions League In Action

2009-05-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

Heros Of Champions League In Action

2009-05-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

Uefa Champions Leauge Final 2009

2009-05-07T02:05:00.000-07:00

Barcelona V/S Man. United
The Final of UEFA Champions League will be held on 27 May 2009 between these two giant. The day in Rome, The day Of Clash and finally the day to choose best among these two. The question is Can Manchester United defend its Tittle?

UEFA Champions League Final...Road to Rome

2009-05-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

After furious season of 08-09, its time for the final of Champions League 09. The two legendry teams Barcelona and Manchester United are ready for the life time opportunity to win grand title. Sir Alex Ferguson the Manchester United’s manager and Pep Guardiola very much exited for the Rome. Fans are now anxiously waiting for the big day.The day are not so far, lets see who will gonna be number one in UEFA champions league Final.

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league For Semi- Final 2nd leg

2009-05-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

Chelsea 1 - 1 Barcelona
Barcelona Won By Away goal advantage

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league For Semi- Final 2nd leg

2009-05-05T23:22:00.000-07:00

Arsenal 1 - 3 Man Utd

Managers get ready for Champions League Semi Final

2009-05-05T01:45:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger are ready for the frontal attack to night, both managers having hudge expectations from theri teams, Man Utd is ahead by 1 goal lead but the Gunners are having advantage of their home ground.

Tonight gonna be big clash in the Semi final of Chamions league. The fans are waitnig ansiously for the match.

Henry Injury Rumors

2009-05-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Earlier on, Henry was thought to be out for the next two weeks or so with a knee injury but the Catalan club has moved to quell these rumors.
It is a sudden turnaround from the earlier statement, because while he was kept quiet in the first leg against Chelsea, Henry showed what he can do against Madrid three days later.
After netting two goals in a superb display in the Bernabeu, Henry's absence would have been sorely felt by the Catalan outfit, and there was talk that Andres Iniesta would move up to the left side of attack. The rumors will not going o affect 2nd leg against Chelsea of semi final Champions league. The match will going to be hard one this time.....Get ready for real action this week.

Van Persie fit to play for Arsenal In Champions league Semi Final

2009-05-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Robin van Persie and Mikael Silvestre are set to face Manchester United in the second leg of the semi-final of Champions League at the Emirates.
According to Sky Sports News, van Persie's return will help the Gunners who lost Eduardo again when he was ruled out for three weeks with a groin problem.
The striker has also been struggling with groin trouble and has not played since Arsenal's 2-1 FA Cup semi-final loss to Chelsea
Former United defender Silvestre, meanwhile, was a doubt after he picked up a groin injury against the Red Devils in the first leg but could now be in contention to feature.
The second leg of semi final of |Champions league will be stunner game between two sides, Man Utd are ahead by 1 goal. But Still Gunners are ready to give tough time in Emirates.

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league For Semi- Final

2009-04-30T04:21:00.001-07:00

Man Utd 1 - 0 Arsenal

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league For Semi- Final

2009-04-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Barcelona 0 - 0 Chelsea

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league

2009-04-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Arsenal 3 - 0 Villarreal
FC Porto 0 - 1 Man Utd

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league

2009-04-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Bayern Munich 1 - 1 Barcelona
Chelsea 4 - 4 Liverpool

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league

2009-04-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

Barcelona 4 - 0 Bayern Munich
Liverpool 1 - 3 Chelsea

Latest Results of UEFA Champions league

2009-04-08T00:51:00.000-07:00

Villarreal 1 - 1 Arsenal

Man Utd 2 - 2 FC Porto

Arsenal Wish to win UEFA

2009-04-05T13:02:00.000-07:00

Arsenal love to win this year UEFA Champions league, Gazidis believe that the club is consist of number of young stars and they are really committed to win this year UEFA Champions league.

Gazidis said while giving interview,"We have a very young squad and we are asking a lot of them to compete at this kind of level but they have proven this year they can beat everybody and we believe we have a real chance to win the Champions League this year."

He also mentioned that,Arsenal would not be tempted to join Manchester United and Chelsea in embarking on lucrative pre-season tours to Asia or the USA. Arsenal instead will go on their usual trip to Austria before returning for a pre-season tournament at the Emirates.

The owner of the club is very much hopeful for the successive season this year, he is very much confident of the young player to bring UEFA Champions league tittle home.

So get ready fo Villarreal game as Arsenal is get ready to go.

UEFA Champios league Quarter Final (liverpool and Chelsea)

2009-03-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

Chelsea and Liverpool are head to head again in the UEFA Champions League Quarter final this year, the two rivals are not stranger for each other so there will be a massive collision between two sides.

Last season, Chelsea won against Liverpool in UEFA Champions league after a 4-3 aggregate victory in the semi-finals.The extra-time goals by Lampard and Drogba booked their place in the Moscow final after a tense second leg at Stamford Bridge.

The last season match was very stunning and audience waiting for another smashing battle in UEFA Champions leagues Quarter final again this year. Both rivals in good form and its can be any body's game

UEFA Draw

2009-03-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

Quarter-finals draw:

Villarreal (ESP) v Arsenal (ENG)

Manchester United (ENG) v FC Porto (POR)

Liverpool (ENG) v Chelsea (ENG)

Barcelona (ESP) v Bayern Munich (GER)

Semi-finals

Manchester United (ENG) or FC Porto (POR) v Villarreal (ESP) or Arsenal (ENG)

Barcelona (ESP) or Bayern Munich (GER) v Liverpool (ENG) or Chelsea (ENG)

Quarter-final matches played on 7/8 and 14/15 April

Semi-finals - 28/29 April and 5/6 May

Final - Rome May 27

"UEFA teams scarred of us", Steven Gerrard

2009-03-19T01:16:00.000-07:00

Steven Gerrard the Liverpool’s captain after beating Real Madrid in UEFA Champions league by 4 goals claim that all European clubs are afraid of us. Last week Liverpool also beat former EPL champions Manchester United in Old Trafford. The confident Captain while giving interview to Setanta Sports News said:

"We are not running scared of anybody, we will take who we get and believe that we are going to go through, If you are asking me about a fear factor in the Champions League, then I think it is the other seven teams in the draw who are going to have concerns about coming up against us after that Real Madrid result. The way I look at it, we are going to have to play them sooner or later, so it does not matter if it is now, the semi-finals or the final. We are now looking forward to the draw later this week.”

When quizzed about potential opponents he would prefer to come up against in the Champions League, the England midfielder was quick to point out.

The captain further mention that they are no looking for the next round of the Champions league, and are very much ready to face any team.

Latest Results Of UEFA Champions League

2009-03-12T01:30:00.000-07:00

Barcelona - Lyon 5 - 2
Manchester Utd. - Inter 2 - 0
Porto F.C. - Atl. Madrid 0 - 0
Roma - Arsenal 6 - 7

Latest Results Of UEFA Champios League

2009-03-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

Juventus 2 - 2 Chelsea
Panathinaikos Athens 1 - 2 Villarreal
Bayern München 7 - 1 Sporting CP Lisbon
Liverpool 4 - 0 Real Madrid

RAUL Apologize

2009-03-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

The captain of Real Madrid Raul has apologized to his side's fans following Wednesday's UEFA Champions League exit at Liverpool.

That four-goal demolition completed a 5-0 aggregate victory for Liverpool and meant Madrid failed to get beyond the last 16 stage for the fifth successive year.
"Liverpool was better in every respect. Once again we are out of the Champions League," said Raul, who has won three UEFA Champions League crowns and played well over 100 matches in the competition.

"We had high hopes for the match, but all that remains is to congratulate Liverpool because they've shown themselves to be a better team. There are no excuses.

"I want to think the fans for supporting us and apologize to them. The defeat is my most painful in the UEFA Champions League; a 4-0 loss hurts."

Spain international Sergio Ramos added: "I want to congratulate our opponents on the match they played. We were eager to turn the tie around but they went out really fired up and have caught us by surprise.

"We have to apologize to the fans for not having got the victory we looked for and wanted."

Its all part of game, Liverpool proved once again that they are unbeatable ath there home town, especially in UEFA Champions League

Wenger Looking For UEFA Champios leauge

2009-03-11T07:11:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger the manger of Arsenal has challenged his players to end a disappointing season on a high ahead of their UEFA Champions League's meeting with AS Roma. Arsenal already won its first leg of UEFA Champions league by 1-0 against AS Roma. Wenger has strong believed that they can successful in Europe despite a below-par Premier League campaign.

"It is exciting because this group is extremely determined and it has been a pleasure to work with them," he said.

"We are quite solid defensively, but I believe it is down to achieving a good balance between attack and defense,” he said.

"We always have an offensive attitude and sometimes that is the best way so you do not come under pressure defensively." he said.

Tonight its going to be big clash in UEFA Champions league, All guns sets for Arsenal, lets wait and watch what AS Roma have in their mind to tackle Gunners.

MU might be in trobble

2009-03-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Captain of Manchester United seems to be not available foe uefa champions league 2nd leg against Inetrmilan. The Manchester’s Captian was replaced at half time in FA cup against FULHUM, and is going to miss the mid week action.

Sir Ferguson said: “ He went over on his ankle and I hope he is alright for Wednesday, because he is so important for us”.

However if Rio Ferdinand do appear in uefa 2nd leg then there will be thrilling competition as Intermilan is already facing threat as no goal in their first leg of uefa champions league.

UEFA Team Of Year 2008

2009-03-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

2009-03-03T15:21:00.000-08:00

UEFA Team of A Year 2008:

Coach : Sir Alex Ferguson

Iker casillas (Goal keeper)
Sergio Romas (Right back)
John Tery (Central Defender)
Carles Puyol (Central Defender)
Philipp Lahm (Left Back)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Right Midfield)
Xavi (Central Midfield)
Cesc Fabregasc (Attacking Midfield)
Franck Ribery (Left Midfield)
Lionel Messi (Forward)
Fernando Torres (Forward)

Latest Fixtures and Results

2009-03-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Status	Home	Score	Away	STAGE	VENUE (ATT.)
Final	Internazionale	0 - 0	Manchester United	Round of 16	Giuseppe Meazza (84,000)
Final	Arsenal	1 - 0	AS Roma	Round of 16	Emirates Stadium (60,003)
Final	Lyon	1 - 1	Barcelona	Round of 16	Stade de Gerland (40,000)
Final	Atlético Madrid	2 - 2	FC Porto	Round of 16	Vicente Calderon (54,000)

Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Status	Home	Score	Away	STAGE	VENUE (ATT.)
Final	Chelsea	1 - 0	Juventus	Round of 16	Stamford Bridge (38,079)
Final	Villarreal	1 - 1	Panathinaikos	Round of 16	Estadio El Madrigal (25,500)
Final	Real Madrid	0 - 1	Liverpool	Round of 16	Estadio Santiago Bernabéu (85,000)
Final	Sporting Lisbon	0 - 5	Bayern Munich	Round of 16	Jose Alvalade (35,163)

Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Time	Home		Away	STAGE	VENUE
19:45 UK	Bayern Munich	v	Sporting Lisbon	Round of 16	Allianz-Arena
19:45 UK	Juventus	v	Chelsea	Round of 16	Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino
19:45 UK	Panathinaikos	v	Villarreal	Round of 16	Athens Olympic Stadium
19:45 UK	Liverpool	v	Real Madrid	Round of 16	Anfield

Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Time	Home		Away	STAGE	VENUE
19:45 UK	FC Porto	v	Atlético Madrid	Round of 16	Estadio do Dragao
19:45 UK	AS Roma	v	Arsenal	Round of 16	Olimpico
19:45 UK	Barcelona	v	Lyon	Round of 16	Estadio Camp Nou
19:45 UK	Manchester United	v	Internazionale	Round of 16	Old Trafford

Champions leauge

2009-03-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

The UEFA Champions League comprises of three qualifying rounds, a group stage, and four knockout rounds.

Qualifying
In matches in the 3 qualifying rounds, clubs play 2 matches against each other on a home and away basis, with the club scoring the greater aggregate of goals qualifying for the next round. In the event of both teams scoring the same number of goals, the team which scores more goals away qualifies.

Group stage
The 16 winners of the third qualifying round ties join a similar number of automatic entrants in the 32-team group stage. The clubs are split into eight groups of four teams, who play home and away against each of their pool opponents between September and December to decide which two teams from each pool advance to the first knockout round. The third-place finishers in each pool enter the UEFA Cup Round of 32.

Knockout phase
From the last 16 until the semi-finals, clubs play two matches against each other on a home and away basis with the same rules as the qualifying rounds applied. In the last 16, group winners play runners-up other than teams from their own pool or nation, while from the quarter-finals on the draw is free.

Final
The final is decided by a single match - which this year will be played in Rome.