CL Quarters Preview: 8 Wonders – I

By: Adam | April 1st, 2008

The day has arrived when the peregrinations to Moscow will proceed to 2nd last stop. Europe’s elite (or England’s rich?) will be battling today and tomorrow to gain upper hand for next week’s ties. Lets see how these teams gonna fare in forthcoming matches.

Roma vs Man Utd.
Roma’s chance for revenge as well as redemption for last year’s fixtures at same stage. There are bitter memoirs for Roma both on and off the field. Roma go into the match having been on march in the past month for scudetto. Inter’s lead is cut into 4 points from 11. But they had a major psychological blow in Totti’s injury. He is not only their captain but also top performer. On the other hand, Man Utd are having their best of the times too. Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez are on song. If they play like they played against Aston Villa then I don’t think any defense can stop their blazing guns. Both the teams met in group stages and there was nothing special to separate these teams (even though Fergie played reserves in one match).
Prediction: 1-0
Battle Royale: Danielle De Rossi and Carlos Tevez. De Rossi was mountain in midfield against Real. Whereas Carlos Tevez is the one who makes it happen for both Ronaldo and Rooney. It will be fantastic to watch these two guys together.
Key Personnel:
Man Utd. – Carlos Tevez. Man who is heartbeat of every united attack.
Roma - Aquilani. His towering presence dispatched Madrid. Can he repeat his success?

Schalke vs Barcelona
If we are to find out who was the happiest manager after quarters draw? Then answer would be Mr. Rijkaard. Schalke are having their dream run in CL. Both Valencia and Cheslea couldn’t beat them. Moreover 2004 champions FC Porto were shown door in the round of 16. But as of today Schalke fans must be mischievously grinning. Barca is in turmoil in every way. They are loosing matches. Off field there are lots of problems. And injuries to key players are making life more difficult in Camp Nou. In short they have become falling pack of cards. Just last week they squandered 2 goal lead against low profile team.But if they can play with the quality matching their strengths then they will be the worst nightmare for oppositions.
Prediction: 1-1
Battle Royale: Henry and Schalke defence
Key Personnel:
Barca – Ronaldinho. On his day, he can thrash anyone. Unfortunately his special days are in paucity (now).
Schalke – Kuryani. He has lion’s share in taking his team to this round.

Preview for wednesday’s matches will be published tomorrow. Till then stay tuned. Don’t forget to post your opinions.