Champions League Preview prt 2, Arsenal Vs Villareal

The next match we will be previewing is the match up between Spanish team popularly known as the yellow submarines taking on Arsenal. This should be a great tie because both managers , Wenger and Pelligrini are known to stick to their principles despite opposition and always look towards playing an open, entertaining game of football. Both teams rely on fluid movements in midfield and potent attack forces. At the moment both teams also mirror each other in their respective leagues, both Arsenal and Villareal are in 4th position and are in an uphill battle to earn CL placement next season. These two met some years ago in the semi finals resulting in Arsenal winning by a 1-0 aggregate that sent them into the Champions League Finals. There has been some interesting changes since that time. One of the key figures in the Arsenal line up at the time Pires is now a member of the Villareal team, also most of the players in the Arsenal line up during that time have moved on to other leagues. The Arsenal team is almost completely different with developing young stars replacing the likes of legends Henry, Pires and Lmunberg.

Focusing on key players we will start with Arsenal. Arsenal will be hoping that their captain and master in the midfield Cesc Fabregas will be match fit to contribute to the tie. Fabregas despite being under the age of 25 is one of the world's best central midfielders and possesses the intelligence and ability to change games with precise passes. He has been out with a knee injury since December and is itching to return to ensure that Arsenal repeat their success in reaching to the CL Finals. If Cesc is fully fit, the heart of Arsenal's midfield will possess quality that will place less pressure on the attack force. In defensive midfield position I am expecting to see developing star Diaby partnered with Cesc. Diaby is gradually improving in his defensive holding role and is a potent force when he moves forward towards goal. On the wings I am sure Arsene will also be hoping that his young Englishman Theo Walcott is available so that he can utilize his quick pace to break down Villa's defensive line. Samir Nasri will also be expected to use his playmaking skills to push infront to service the strike force. Fullbacks Clichy and Sagna will be running forward pushing pressure on Villa to defend and provide crosses into the box for the likes of Adebayor and Van Persie. Both strikers are important in their own right. RVP being more technical and can provide free kicks and innovative shots on goal. Adebayor's strengths will be his strength and pace that will have the like former gunner Cygan and Capdevila busy, opening up spaces for his team mates. Arsenal will also have to rely on top performances from CB Toure, Gallas and goal keeper Almunia to ensure safe berth to the semi final's.


Villareal are also a force to be reckoned with and will not be a walk in the park for Arsenal. In attack I expect to see Italian american Giuseppe Rossi, Spanish foward Llorente and Mexican Franco provide lethal attacking arsenal. Franco caused Manchester Utd defense quite a few problems during the group stages making Utd a bit lucky not to have conceded to the yellow submarines. Franco plays with a bit of flamboyance and sometimes is able to pull off amazing stunt moves on goal. Rossi is a former Utd player that has made a name for himself in Spain as a lethal attacker. Spanish forward Llorente should also play a significant role having scored 4 goals in the competition this season. In the midfield their is the experience of former gunner playmaker Robert Pires and defensive midfield stalwart Sienna. Pires game has changed much since leaving Arsenal. During his first season with the submarines he was hampered by a foot injury which resulted in him losing some of the mobility he became recognized for playing left midfield for Arsenal. Like Giggs at Utd, Pelligrini has moved Robert into a more central role relying on his talents to control the passing in midfield. Sienna is more than effective in his defensive midfield position providing a halt to any attacking tactic. He is also deadly in deadball positions and the team can rely on him, their captain to step up to the ball when free kicks or penalties are awarded. In defense Villa have the much improved Cygan, and Capdevila to help provide protection.


Verdict: I am predicting this will be an open tie, due to both managers passion for attacking football. I think we should be seeing more than a couple goals. I think Arsenal have the edge with so much of their key players such as Fabregas, Walcott and Eduardo returning with eagerness to make up for time spent on the injury table. Where Villa could trouble Arsenal is during set plays. Despite massive improvement since the early period of the season, Arsenal is still troubled by free kicks or corners entering into the box. If Pelligrini can use this to his advantage he may be able to gain revenge on Arsenal.

Champions League Rd of Eight Preview

As the months roll by the CL Final in Rome is drawing closer with only 8 teams left in contention in the knock out stages. Similar to last year the English Prem teams have made a statement with four teams, Manchester Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal all reaching the last 8. They are joined by two La Liga representatives Barca and Villa Real. The final two teams Bayern Munich and FC Porto hail from Germany and Portugal respectively. The draw has created some interesting match ups and so I am taking the time to give my two cents on what the outcome maybe. Here is the round of eight knockout stage tie preview, enjoy.

Liverpool Vs. Chelsea: Once more Prem rivals Liverpool and Chelsea meet each other in the knockout stages. Since the arrival of Jose Mourinho and Rafa Benetiz, both teams have become well acquinted with each other in Champions League. Mourinho has left but he left a legacy with inthe rivalry that the supporters ensured the teams carry on. Last season interim Chelsea manager Avram Grant saw off Liverpool to reach the finals in Moscow and it seems that Liverpool is more than willing to return the favour come April. Matches between the teams were usually boring and tactical during Mourinho's reign but since Grant and his replacement Scolari entered the picture the games have taken a more entertaining open approach. New manager Gus Hiddink is now in charge of Chelsea and we will now have to wait to see what approach he plans to utilize. If it is anything like the performance of the other team he manages Russia we can expect some nice flowing attack minded football. At the moment both teams are currently competing for second place position in the Prem and this could only stir the embers to make this contes memorable.

When we look for key players we can see quite a few. Liverpool will expect it dynamic attacking duo, Spanish striker Fernando Torres and their English captain Steven Gerrard to provide that well need attacking prowess infront of goal. Both players are extremely skilled in attack and can pull off even the most audacious of shots. In support the highly effective dutchman Dirk Kuyt and Spanish winger Riera will be providing added attacking support from the flanks. In the heart the midfield I would expect the services of Alonso and Argentine defensive midfielder Mascherano to provide a shield for the defense line that should include veteran Carragher and talented youth Skretel. Liverpool at the moment are in splendid form and are full of confidence after they dismantled Spain powerhouse Real Madrid to reach the final eight and then went on to destroy Prem leaders Manchester Utd on their home ground Old Trafford.

Chelsea also have a few show stoppers in their arsenal. The Chelsea squad is very organized and relies on players that have years of experience to go along with their talent. In attack they will be looking towards former Afrcian player of the year Didier Drogba to use his physical presence and ball control break down Liverpool's defense line. He may have prolific goal scoring French marksman Nicholas Anelka upfront as a partner. In midfield we see a number of intersting options as Chelsea has some of the best midfield options in Europe. Key figures like Frank Lampard, Michael Essien and Michael Ballack can all cause havoc from the middle. New manager Hiddink has shown signs that he prefers to use Ghanan midfield star Essien in a more attacking role and this could provide the key to Chelsea cracking open the shrewd tactacs of Liverpool's manager Benitez. Chelsea's backline is also one of the safest in Europe with central defenders, captain John Terry partnering with either Brazilian Centre Alex or Portugal's Carvalho in the middle. Chelsea has in their possession one of the most proven shot stopppers their goal keeper Peter Cech. Chelsea had to work hard in the previous round to overcome Italian giants Juventus.

Verdict: Looking both teams I think one is close to call, it could be a defensive mistake or even extra time penalties that could determine the final outcome of this tie. I think both teams will be looking to cancel each other out and the only way the game may open up is if an early goal is scored. Judging on recent form one could say Liverpool has the edge. However we are now on an international break and we have no idea how this could affect the players physically and emotionally when they return. Both teams have incentives to move forward in the competition. Chelsea is still bitter from the penalty shoot out loss in last year's finals. Liverpool is at the moment extremely confident after they convincingly took apart Manchester Utd the holders of the cup and argueably the best team in the world. Torres and Gerrard are hungry this season for silverware and seem to be making that extra effort that ensures success throughout the season. Chelsea coach Hiddink is known for being a successful cup competition coach, but the same can be said about Benitez. This match up should be interesting on and off the pitch since the outcome will be either based upon on tactical masterminding or great individual contribution. I am going to jump off the fence and predict Liverpool advancing to the final four.

Next we will look at Arsenal Vs. Villareal

Relentless pursuit of excellence...Eduardo Da Silva

In August 2006 Arsenal's manager Arsene Wenger witness a player score the first European goal at the team's new home the Emirates Stadium. He was so impressed with the player that he contacted the players club Dinamo Zagreb on the his availability. The request was successful and the player moved from Croatia to the English premiership to fill an attacking void left by Arsenal's most potent striker the legendary Theirry Henry. Little was known of this player and critics had a field day questioning Wenger's transfer decision. I too had my doubts and decided to look for videos on the player. My research made me a believer and I was almost certain the player would lay his mark on Arsenal for season's to come.

This player is Eduardo and many have learned what an awe inspiring individual this player is on and off the pitch. His debut season was cut short by an devastating injury just over a year ago that led many to believe he would never return back to the potential he had. He with the help of Arsenal's outstanding medical staff proved naysayers wrong when he returned and scored two goals in his first team debut and went on to score on of the most brilliant volley goals of the season. Anyone who questioned his skill before his strike on Cardiff's goal have fell silent in reverence to skills be possesses. It was a beacon to the Premiership that Eduardo is back and in deadly form.

Eduardo is a rare breed in modern football. A player with amazing talent but does not carry himself with arrogance. He is a natural goal scorer, a poacher like Real Madrid's Van Nistelrooy. He is a striker in and out also possesses the pace and footwork skill to ply his trade on the wing servicing the attack. Place a the ball close to goal and he is almost certain to score. He displays composure in front of goal which even top strikers in the world fail to possess for years. Once the ball is at his feet in front of goal it is as if time stops, defenders and goal keepers try their hardest to put him off his game to no avail, he simply brushes their distractions aside and focuses on his only target, the back of the net. He possesses the quickness and intelligence to make it look easy to score. Simple tap ins, headers, shots outside the box, volleys and bicycle kicks have all been utilized to achieve his goal. What happens next is usually more amazing. Eduardo hardly partakes in extravagant celebrations that modern players are now known for. He intead just issues a smile a nod and presses towards getting himself back in position to continue the game. It was only since his return that he has been celebrated his goals with devour pushing players and obstacles out of his way during his first team returning goal to console his team doctor, thanking him for bringing him back to full health.

The 5ft 9 striker was born in Rio De Janiero, Brazil and developed his talent at a club in his neighbourhood Bantu. In 1999 scouts from Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb were in Brazil looking for talent and came upon on the talented Brazilian. He was taken to the club on trial and eventually became a part of the youth squad. He made his debut in the first team in 2001 but was then loaned out to a second division Croatian club Inter Zapresic in the following season. His time on loan was successful and he scored an impressive 10 goals in just 15 appearances. This resulted in him being recalled back to Dinamo where he earned his place in the first team line up. He began to be known for scoring goals and setting up assists. He scored 18 goals in 18 appearances consecutively in the 06-07 season and led his team to 2 Crotian league titles and placements in European competitions.

During his time in Croatia he also decided to take up citizenship and joined the Croatian youth team in under 21 team in 02. He made 12 appearances and scored 8 goals. It was not long before he was called up to the senior team and after 06 WC which he did not participate in he began to play an integral role in their new managers attacking strategy. He has made 23 appearances and scored 13 goals. His National manager Slaven Bilic made it clear that the team were at a disadvantage without their top striker due to his season ending injury.

In the summer of 07 Arsenal purchased Eduardo for 7.5 million pds and he became immediately involved in the clubs preseason friendly cup matches. He scored his first goal in a Gunners shirt in a 2-1 win against Italian side Lazio in the pre-seaon Amsterdam Cup. He then made his season debut in August against Blackburn as a substitute in a 1-1 draw. His first competitive goal came in European qualifier competition against Sparta Prague. He then went on to gradually adjust into his new team making cameo appearances in domestic cup matches. It was not until the Christmas period of last season that Eduardo began to become a regular fixture in the Arsenal first time premiership line up. Injuries to main striker Robin Van Persie created an opportunity for him to become a starting striker and he grasped it open handedly. He went on to score a series of important goals for Arsenal until his leg was broken by a reckless tackle on the 23rd of February. It immediately ended his season and left him 12 goals and 8 assist in 31 appearances.

There was great worry that he would not be able to participate at a high level after the injury, but this was put to rest during practice matches during team training. The players internal drive and determination along with the incredible work of Arsenal's medical staff brought Eduardo back to the pitch in awe inspiring form. Eduardo scored a hat trick against his team mates in private match and then went on to improve in the reserves. He returned back to his national team in February and gave an winning assist. His return to the first team line up despite being recieving a number of set backs due to niggling injuries has been impressive. He has scored 3 goals in 2 appearances including a a volley from the outside of his foot against Prem hopefuls Burnsley in the FA Cup that is touted as one of the best goals ever excecuted. There is no question that he has returned even stronger than before and will contribute to the remaining Arsenal's season. It gives me great joy to see Eduardo return, I remember the fateful day when I witnessed his injury on my screen and prayed that he would recover, I was overjoyed when I saw him leap in the air to head the ball into the net in the FA Cup replay against Cardiff. It showed that with great determination and good spirits even the most destructable of obstacles can be overcome and one can continue onwards in the relentless pursuit of excellence. Welcome back Eduardo we missed you dearly.

The heart of Anfield...Captain Fantastic Steven Gerrard

For a team to truly inspire to greatness there must be someone willing to take it on his/her back during testing times and inspire his team mates to press on through tribulations. No one in English football possesses this ability more than Liverpool's central midfield captain Steven Gerrard. His team have learned over the seasons that in time of trouble they can look towards captain fantastic to provide a performance that will safely see them through to earning points even in positions where it looked like all was in vain. Anyone who has watched the Premiership can vouch for the awe inspiring performances the 6 ft ,28 yr old English man displays with consistency. Whether it is a through pass, beautiful cross, perfected corner kick or jaw dropping shot on goal, Gerrard has it all. He never gives up and finds ways to punish even the stubborn of defenses often time when Liverpool is facing an almost certain defeat.

His reward for his actions has been top 4 placements in the Premiership, winning the FA Cup, Carling Cup and the glory of holding up the most coveted prize in Europe the Champions League trophy. This season is no different with Liverpool in a good position to challenge long time rivals Manchester Utd for the Premiership title. A goal against Spanish kings Real Madrid during their Champions League match up has also placed Steven's team in pole position to advance towards the finals in Rome. Many critics have felt that Liverpool's recent success has little to do with their manager's questionable team strategies and more dependent on the drive and inspirations of Gerrard.

Gerrard is what I would describe as full footballer. This means he has not only garners the physical abilities of a top footballer but has the mental maturity that entails precise football intelligence and the ability to inspire and earn the respect of his team mates as well as his opponents. Gerrard is a very versatile midfield player, he has been utilized in central midfield or on the right. He is also a very effective supporting striker. He is masterful in dead ball positions such as free kicks and corners. When it comes to shots on goal he is one of the most deadly marksmen in the business. No angle is too difficult for Gerrard to shoot. He has defied the laws of Physics with shots that have made the ball bend at the last minute to elude a grasping keeper. He has an amazing array of shots that can consist of low perfectly angle shots or spinning aerial missiles. The outcome is usually the ball ending in the back of the net. He has the intelligence and ability to control the tempo of the game from a central position. He also can control the wing executing passes that open up spaces in defense. When he is utilized as a supporting striker, he becomes a potent attacking force. Last season Benitez placed him in this role to partner with his newly acquired striker Torres. The impact was devastating to opponents defenses . There developing partnership lead to both players scoring goals almost at will.

When it comes to his leadership qualities there is no question asked. One only has to look back to the 2005 when he placed Liverpool on his back and pushed his team to overcome a 3-0 deficit to go on to overcome AC Milan to win the Champions League. This season we have seen him provided a goal or assist in lacklustre performances to ensure that his team comes away victors. His team mates share the same sentiments as Liverpool's favourite adopted son Torres made it clear that Liverpool FC is Steven Gerrard. Gerrard who suffers from injuries regularly is immediately missed and the team seems to lose a bit of energy when he is on the sidelines. This season is a dream season because Gerrard has never come closer to winning the Premiership title and has expressed that he desires nothing more at the end of the season than to win it. There will be a number of obstacles including overcoming a recent injury to achieve this, but you can be assured that Gerrard will put in a 150% to achieve his goal.

Mastering the Art of Attack...Franck Ribery

Two weeks ago German football power house Bayern Munich taught Portuguese football team Sporting Lisbon a painful lesson about Champions League knock out stages. The Germans virtually ended their opponents European title hopes with a whopping 5 goals in their first leg meeting. This dismantling had much to do with the mesmerizing attacking display of Munich's French attacking wing man Franck Ribery. He contributed with two beautiful goals as well as executing a series of tricks before floating the ball in the path of his teamate Toni for a beautiful goal.

At 5 ft 7 inches with an athletic frame, Ribery is a perfect example of the modern attacking midfielder. He uses his athletism to run along the flanks and trouble defenders with his magical footwork that includes step overs and paceful dribbles. He also has perfected the art of passing and uses his football intelligence to execute low or high passes that service frontmen with opportunities on goal. The magical foot work sometimes opens up the opportunity for him to run in on defenders and take shots on goal and if you witnessed his first goal in the game against Lisbon you would understand how valuable his goal scoring technique is to the success of Bayern.

Ribery was born in Boulongne, France and spent his early football career moving across Europe at various clubs. He did not become recognized until he moved from Turkish club Galatasaray to French club Marseille. Marseille is known for harnessing the talents of French starlets such as Drogba, Cisse and Nasri. The team was known to promote entertaining attacking football and Ribery fit in providing assists and the odd goal. He joined Marseille in 2005 and spent two seasons. He made 60 appearances and scored 11 goals. His performances earned him a spot on the French international team and he began to get attention from big clubs in other leagues across Europe.

Arsenal's manager Arsene Wenger was one of his biggest admirers and contacted Marseille on his availability. Wenger however lost interest in the pursuit when Marseille decided to place a large price for the players transfer. German giants Bayern Munich then took the opportunity to buy him for 25 million pds. Ribery immediately made an impact on the clubs performances. The German club utilized him as an attacking midfielder that dismantled defenders with beautiful skill to set up goals and take shots.

He suffered a number of injuries and his presence was immediately missed with Munich losing alot of it attacking prowess. In 08 he contributed to the club's dominance of the German football winning the Bundesliga and two German cup competitions. So far he has made 60 appearances for Munich and has scored 17 times. However the stats fail to recognize his contribution in the build up to countless of goals in his Munich career. Rumours are now spreading in the media that Ribery could be ready to move on to another challenge in another part of Europe. The likes of Manchester Utd and Barcalona have been rumoured to be probable destinations. Ribery however made public his intentions to stay at Munich until his contract expires in 2011. He did state though that he is attracted to the type of football played in England and Spain and could see himself at another major club after his contract is up.

Ribery is an extraordinary talent that has been hailed the next Zidane and I believe that we can expect more great performances for him on both the Club and international level. His movement on and off the ball is sublime. His football intelligence and athletism allows him to master the art of moving forward. His only weakness seems to be that he is prone to injury and spends extended periods of his career on the injury table. With Bayern almost certain to move into the next round of the Champions League knock out stages we should expect the French man to test his skills against his peers in Europe.