I'd be remiss if I didn't post something on what was surely the most discussed soccer topic of the week. Arsenal will be minus one gun for the remainder of their campaign as their fans and Croatians mourn the severe -- potentially career-ending -- leg break suffered by up-and-coming international Eduardo on Saturday at the foot of Birmingham defender Martin Taylor. TV stations opted not to replay what witnesses described as a "horrific", "gruesome", and "sickening" injury. There's been much debate as to the proper punishment for Taylor's challenge which currently stands at a 3 match ban. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger initially called for Taylor to be "banned for life" but has since retracted those comments. Taylor is said to be "shattered" by the break and a review of his foul history bears out the notion that this tackle was more clumsy than malicious. Still, purveyors of the beautiful game will site this as an example where brute force was deliberately applied to stop dazzling skill, and as such, an example should be made out of Taylor. As for the pair involved in the accident, Taylor has visited Eduardo in the hospital and Eduardo has unequivocally forgiven him. Class on both sides. Just be glad I didn't post the image that immediately followed this one.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Just Before the Break
I'd be remiss if I didn't post something on what was surely the most discussed soccer topic of the week. Arsenal will be minus one gun for the remainder of their campaign as their fans and Croatians mourn the severe -- potentially career-ending -- leg break suffered by up-and-coming international Eduardo on Saturday at the foot of Birmingham defender Martin Taylor. TV stations opted not to replay what witnesses described as a "horrific", "gruesome", and "sickening" injury. There's been much debate as to the proper punishment for Taylor's challenge which currently stands at a 3 match ban. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger initially called for Taylor to be "banned for life" but has since retracted those comments. Taylor is said to be "shattered" by the break and a review of his foul history bears out the notion that this tackle was more clumsy than malicious. Still, purveyors of the beautiful game will site this as an example where brute force was deliberately applied to stop dazzling skill, and as such, an example should be made out of Taylor. As for the pair involved in the accident, Taylor has visited Eduardo in the hospital and Eduardo has unequivocally forgiven him. Class on both sides. Just be glad I didn't post the image that immediately followed this one.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Chelsea Spur-ned
Tottenham Hotspurs won the Carling Cup -- their first trophy since 1999 -- by upsetting Chelsea 2-1 in extra time on Sunday. Looks like Spurs nuevo manager Juande Ramos is picking up in England where he left off in Espana after littering Sevilla's cabinets with hardware during his two season tenure with the Andalusians.Meanwhile, the Blues inner turmoil continues to roil as Avram Grant's competency is openly questioned and rumors surface of a John Terry and assistant coach Henk ten Cate bust-up the day before the match. Somewhere the Special One is laughing.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Round of 16: Mid-Tie Power Rankings
1. The Terrible Twos
2. Team EC
3. Team Jerusalem
4. Banana Island
5. Cantona, SaMo
6. Big Bend
7. Eastern Influence, JonnyRay United, Real Marin
8. The Continentalist
* Power Rankings are unscientifically determined by the results of the first leg of the tie. Points are assigned based on which club holds the advantage and how strong this advantage is.
Mid-way through the Round of 16, The Terrible Twos have seemingly grabbed the lead, with Team EC occupying the Runners-Up position, on the strength of Schalke, Roma, Liverpool, and Fenerbahçe wins. The only consensus picks of this round were Barcelona and Manchester United. Will The Continentalist's perceived mid-tie stumble ultimately prove costly? The rest of the pool can only hope.
Pool Who's Who
The Continentalist, aka Nutmeg (Pacifica, CA) - The Originator of the World Cup 2006 Friends Pool... and conveniently the taker of the spoils of said pool. Runner up in the Champions League Pool 2007 and contributor to CL Pool 2008 blog. Watch out for The Special One. As the legal representation for the blog, he's sure to exploit every possible loophole in his run for victory.
Eastern Influence (Menlo Park, CA) - The current Cupholders. Hailing from the South Bay peninsula and el Cuidad de Monterrey, Mexico, this multinational family wielded their title-winning tactics from the depths of Montenegro last year. Recently relocated to Menlo Park, we'll see if their European savvy holds up now that they're back in their home FIFA conference. The Californian half of Eastern Influence is infamously remembered for his pick against Mexico, and the mother of his children, in the 2006 World Cup Friends pool. Before the arrival of Cantona, Eastern Influence were widely regarded as the most knowledgeable poolers in football matters.
Big Bend, aka TK, Team Auckland (Pacifica, CA, as of this weekend) - Though he descended a New Zealand glacier to make his picks on time last year, TK is mysteriously MIA from this year's blog, instead electing to make his first picks via email. For now we'll assume he's been busy performing intricate orthopedic surgeries and house-hunting. Just missed the Runners-Up prize in last year's pool. His experience is steeped in his days on the pitches of Menlo Park with the Continentalist and Eastern Influence.
Team Jerusalem (yes, Jerusalem) - The lone ex-pat pool team this year. Should get a handicap for following the tournament in Hebrew (definitely not his first language). Despite starting last year's pool with "this has something to do with college basketball, yes?", his old English connections assure that football runs deep in his blood. Picks may appear improvised at times, but don't be fooled. He's a master tactician who could at any moment pick the lock of the pool (or steal the keys from the Continentalist).
The Terrible Twos, aka Bigmaggie, Team Lee (Marina Del Rey, CA) - Watched World Cup 2006 in Hoboken, NJ, during the last year of a long stint in NYC, and the first year with their little one (sporting hot soccer threads on last year's blog). Now they're back to their west coast roots, and riding the elevator in their Marina Del Rey crib with Nicholas Cage. Known for unorthodox picks and bold attitude, the Terrible Twos have jumped to an early advantage.
SaMo, aka The Jerver, Perfect Pitch (Santa Monica, CA) - Fresh off of a last place finish in the 2007 Pool, SaMo is still wondering why Bayern Munich isn't in this year's tournament. Always on the verge of a red card himself, SaMo is an aficionado of fair play and the beautiful game. His vast knowledge of American sports arcana has yet to translate to an advantage in his reading of the European game. Just be glad this isn't Major League Baseball Pool 2008.
Team EC (San Rafael, CA) - Joined the pool in 2007, their maiden west coast year after relocating from New England. Can be found wearing PSV Eindhoven jerseys while making picks over BBQed oysters with county compatriots Real Marin. They'll be following the games from Azzurri country in March with secret weapon Carovillaninho in tow. With strong scouting skills and an early edge, Team EC could well be this year's Cinderella story.
JonnyRay United (Boston, MA) - Capitalizing on Team Effsee FC's relegation, JohnnyRay United is fresh up from the lower leagues with high aspirations of capturing his first title. Started his club career in Massachusetts with the Winchester High Sachems and ended it with too many pints in the pubs of London. (Or was it Australia, or Vermont?) He'll be architecting his plans for victory in between designing eye-popping furniture and changing diapers.
Banana Island (San Francisco, CA) - Seoul Sister #1. This South Korean starlet will catch matches in between shots of animation and Kim Yu-Na figure skating competitions. Her man of the match is Park Ji-Sung even if Manchester United isn't playing. While new to the pool this year, she's plenty capable of swimming in the deep end.
Cantona (Corte Madera, CA) - Has lived and died by the fortunes of Manchester United since he was a young lad in Wales. Has been known to follow the Red Devils via short-wave radio while on Pan-Pacific animation sojourns. Although new to the pool, his veteran experience in the European leagues could easily lead him to this year's Golden Boot.
Real Marin (Fairfax, CA) - Hanging on every magisterial Barça move and blogging from their hideout in the redwoods of Fairfax.
Eastern Influence (Menlo Park, CA) - The current Cupholders. Hailing from the South Bay peninsula and el Cuidad de Monterrey, Mexico, this multinational family wielded their title-winning tactics from the depths of Montenegro last year. Recently relocated to Menlo Park, we'll see if their European savvy holds up now that they're back in their home FIFA conference. The Californian half of Eastern Influence is infamously remembered for his pick against Mexico, and the mother of his children, in the 2006 World Cup Friends pool. Before the arrival of Cantona, Eastern Influence were widely regarded as the most knowledgeable poolers in football matters.
Big Bend, aka TK, Team Auckland (Pacifica, CA, as of this weekend) - Though he descended a New Zealand glacier to make his picks on time last year, TK is mysteriously MIA from this year's blog, instead electing to make his first picks via email. For now we'll assume he's been busy performing intricate orthopedic surgeries and house-hunting. Just missed the Runners-Up prize in last year's pool. His experience is steeped in his days on the pitches of Menlo Park with the Continentalist and Eastern Influence.
Team Jerusalem (yes, Jerusalem) - The lone ex-pat pool team this year. Should get a handicap for following the tournament in Hebrew (definitely not his first language). Despite starting last year's pool with "this has something to do with college basketball, yes?", his old English connections assure that football runs deep in his blood. Picks may appear improvised at times, but don't be fooled. He's a master tactician who could at any moment pick the lock of the pool (or steal the keys from the Continentalist).
The Terrible Twos, aka Bigmaggie, Team Lee (Marina Del Rey, CA) - Watched World Cup 2006 in Hoboken, NJ, during the last year of a long stint in NYC, and the first year with their little one (sporting hot soccer threads on last year's blog). Now they're back to their west coast roots, and riding the elevator in their Marina Del Rey crib with Nicholas Cage. Known for unorthodox picks and bold attitude, the Terrible Twos have jumped to an early advantage.
SaMo, aka The Jerver, Perfect Pitch (Santa Monica, CA) - Fresh off of a last place finish in the 2007 Pool, SaMo is still wondering why Bayern Munich isn't in this year's tournament. Always on the verge of a red card himself, SaMo is an aficionado of fair play and the beautiful game. His vast knowledge of American sports arcana has yet to translate to an advantage in his reading of the European game. Just be glad this isn't Major League Baseball Pool 2008.
Team EC (San Rafael, CA) - Joined the pool in 2007, their maiden west coast year after relocating from New England. Can be found wearing PSV Eindhoven jerseys while making picks over BBQed oysters with county compatriots Real Marin. They'll be following the games from Azzurri country in March with secret weapon Carovillaninho in tow. With strong scouting skills and an early edge, Team EC could well be this year's Cinderella story.
JonnyRay United (Boston, MA) - Capitalizing on Team Effsee FC's relegation, JohnnyRay United is fresh up from the lower leagues with high aspirations of capturing his first title. Started his club career in Massachusetts with the Winchester High Sachems and ended it with too many pints in the pubs of London. (Or was it Australia, or Vermont?) He'll be architecting his plans for victory in between designing eye-popping furniture and changing diapers.
Banana Island (San Francisco, CA) - Seoul Sister #1. This South Korean starlet will catch matches in between shots of animation and Kim Yu-Na figure skating competitions. Her man of the match is Park Ji-Sung even if Manchester United isn't playing. While new to the pool this year, she's plenty capable of swimming in the deep end.
Cantona (Corte Madera, CA) - Has lived and died by the fortunes of Manchester United since he was a young lad in Wales. Has been known to follow the Red Devils via short-wave radio while on Pan-Pacific animation sojourns. Although new to the pool, his veteran experience in the European leagues could easily lead him to this year's Golden Boot.
Real Marin (Fairfax, CA) - Hanging on every magisterial Barça move and blogging from their hideout in the redwoods of Fairfax.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Round of 16: Leg 1, Day 2 Results
Celtic 2-3 Barcelona
Barça saved their best match of the season for the opening leg of their tie with Celtic at Celtic Park, Glasgow. The Blaugrana dominated the proceedings in all-phases of the game but particularly with a blisteringly creative attack that featured all of the 'Fantastic Four' - Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o, Lionel Messi, and Thierry Henry - for only the second time this season. Despite Barcelona's complete control of the flow of play it was Celtic who scored first when a defensive mix-up left Lee Naylor with the ball at the top of the box to cross for a Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink header into the back of the net. But Barça immediately replied when Lionel Messi scored off a brilliant give-and-go with the crafty and on-form Portugese playmaker Deco. Against the run of play it was Celtic who again took the lead with a Barry Robson bloop header just over keeper Victor Valdes' outstretched hands in the 38th minute. Once more Barcelona had an answer when, in the 52nd minute, Ronaldinho intercepted a pass and fed Henry who glided into the Celtic area and delivered a deadly strike just inside the far post. Young Argentine wunderkind Messi bagged the brace when he scooped up a muffed Stephen McManus clearance and cooly drilled it into the back of the net to give Barcelona the win and the decided advantage as the two teams face again at Camp Nou, Barcelona in two weeks time.
Lyon 1-1 Manchester United
The first half of the match at Stade de Gerland was a high-paced, tightly-contested, 0-0 affair where Lyon controlled much of the play, but both clubs had decent chances on net. First blood was deservedly drawn by OL in the 9th minute of the 2nd half when high-voltage French striker Karim Benzema unleased a bolt from the edge of the penalty area into the bottom left corner of the net. Sir Alex Ferguson responded by sending in young CL new-comers Nani and Carlos Tevez, and the manager was rewarded in the final 3 minutes when the Argentinian Tevez hammered home the equalizer from close range when a Nani cross was unintentionally deflected in his direction by Fred. United will like their chances as the tie heads back to Old Trafford in a fortnight.
Fenerbahçe 3-2 Sevilla
A frigid night at Sükrü Saraçogluin Stadium, Istanbul ended on a high note for the raucous Fenerbahçe faithful. Mateja Kežman opened the scoring for the Turks in the 17th minute with a nifty header off a Uğur Boral cross. But the equaliser came within minutes when a Dani Alves cross defected off outstretched Brazilian defender Edu's leg for an unfortunate own-goal. The fireworks continued in the second half when the Yellow Canaries' Argentine defender Lugano headed in yet another beautiful cross from Uğur Boral. But once more the visiting Sevillistas had a quick answer when Diego Capel's corner was head flicked by Christian Poulsen to Julien Escudé who slammed in a point-blank goal for the equaliser. Late substitution fan-favorite striker Semih Şentürk gave the home crowd the result they craved with a strike in the final three minutes to snatch Fenerbahçe the advantage over the Spaniards as the tie heads to Sevilla.
Arsenal 0-0 Milan
Although ending in a goalless draw, Arsenal and Milan provided plenty of action for the crowd at Arsenal Stadium, London. Milan's newly acquired Brazilian starlet Alex Pato proved to be an electric attacking addition to the aging veteran side, while the combination of Arsenal's Togolese striker Emmanuel Adebayor and Spanish playmaker Cesc Fabregas created a host of chances for the youthful Gunners. Perhaps it is Rossoneri keeper Kalac who deserves man-of-the-match status as he kept the relentless Arsenal attack out of the net time and time again in a stellar performance. Though failing to score the all-important away goal, Milan has to be happy with the draw as the return leg travels to the San Siro, Milan.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Round of 16: Leg 1, Day 1 Results
Inter's Marco Materazzi (of Zidane headbuttee fame) is harshly sent off in the 30th minute after his second yellow card for transgressions against Liverpool forward Fernando Torres.Schalke 1-0 Porto
Porto did not rekindle the magic of their last visit to Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen - the site of their CL title win in the 2004 final - in falling to home side Schalke 1-0 on Tuesday night. The Germans, spurred by an enthusiastic crowd of 54,000, came out at a furious pace in their first ever appearance in the Round of 16 and played like CL veterans in creating most of the chances of the match. The Royal Blues scored the lone goal of the night in just the fourth minute of play when German international striker Kevin Kuranyi rifled in the rebound off Porto keeper Helton's punch save of a massive Rafinha strike. Towards the end of the match, Schalke finally showed some fatigue as Porto gained some tantalizing opportunities for the equaliser, but the Germans will be happy travelling to Portugal for the return leg with the advantage.
Liverpool 2-0 Inter Milan
A beleaguered Liverpool side, hammered by the constant controversy of three months of poor performances, saw its chances at CL redmeption dramatically uplifted when Inter's bad-boy Italian defender Marco Materazzi was sent off with a red card in the 30th minute after receiving two yellow cards for questionable fouls against the Red's star striker Fernando Torres. In particular, the second yellow seemed dubious as replays showed little-to-no contact on the play, and many will postulate that Materazzi's reputation tipped the scales against the Nerazzuri defender. Now sensing a real chance to defeat red-hot and favored Inter Milan, the Kop was in a full throated frenzy imploring their side to capatilize on their man advantage. Despite their reputation as an attacking juggernaut, Inter fell into a defensive posture by necessity and were admirably able to hold Liverpool to a precious few chances for most of the match. However, with 6 minutes left, the Reds were finally able to break through the stalemate when Dirk Kuyt deftly one timed a Jermaine Pennant cross off of defender Maicon and just past keeper Julio Cesar. The last (and potentially tie deciding) damage was done when Liverpool's fabled captain Steven Gerrard fired home a strike from the upper right corner of the box just past the far post. Anfield errupted in ecstasy as their beloved Reds returned to the European form that has taken them to two of the last three CL finals.
Olympiacos 0-0 Chelsea
On a frigid night in Karaiskakis Stadium, Athens -- the site of snow just days before -- Olympiacos and Chelsea battled to a goalless draw in a match which lacked attacking flow on either side. One of the biggest surprises of the night occurred before kickoff with Chelsea manager Avram Grant's announcing his lineup would start with captain John Terry and midfield talisman Frank Lampard on the bench. As the first half progressed it became clear Olympiacos, appearing in the Round of 16 for the first time in 9 years, were not over-awed by the experience of their star-studded opposition. Led in midfield by fan favorite Ieroklis Stoltidis and Serbian captain Predrag Djordjević the Red-Whites answered Chelsea's methodical possession football with quick counter attacks. One can only wonder how the frenzied Greek crowd would have responded had a goal been scored. Chelsea will be happy occupying the driver's seat as the tie heads to Stamford Bridge, London in two week's time.
Roma 2-1 Real Madrid
Plucky host side Roma earned a hard-fought come from behind win at Stadio Olimpico, Rome on Tuesday night against La Liga leaders, Real Madrid. The visiting Merengues took the early lead in just the 8th minute when a powerful Guti strike deflected off Raul and past Roma keeper Doni. But the Giallorossi were up to the task and grabbed the equaliser in the 24th miniute when Madrid defender Heinze's weak clearance set up a David Pizarro strike from distance. The undisputed hero of the night was free-wheeling Brazilian midfielder Mancini who delivered the game winner for the Roma faithful in the 58th minute when, after receiving a beautiful pass from captain Francesco Totti, he deftly sidestepped the charging Spanish keeper Iker Casillas and slipped the ball into the back of the vacant net. As a result the Giallorossi will carry a slender advantage with them as they travel to the Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid on Wednesday, March 5th.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
The Clubs: The Brits
Arsenal FC
aka: the Gunners
Arsenal Football Club is one of the most successful and popularly supported clubs in English football history. Based in Holloway, north London, they became the first London side to reach the Champions League final two years ago in a loss to FC Barcelona. Arsenal gained a worldwide fan base over the last decade with their success in England and Europe. The Gunners undefeated season in 2003-4 is regarded as one of the best single seasons in football history earning the team the nickname "The Invincibles". In recent history Arsenal has fallen from their lofty heights as they've failed to finish in the top two of the EPL the last two seasons. Many felt the offseason departure of beloved captain and French international forward Thierry Henry to Barcelona would spell further trouble for the club. Instead the young team seems to have gained a new life with their new identity and have overtaken Manchester United for the lead in the EPL title race.
Their French manager, Arsene Wenger, is widely regarded as one of the best in the world having led the Gunners to first or second place in the EPL eight of his eleven seasons at the club. Anchored in the back by club captain and French international defender William Gallas, vice-captain Cote d'Ivoirian international defender Kolo Touré, and vice-captain Brazilian international defensive midfielder Gilberto, Arsenal feature an array of young offensive talent in Spanish international playmaker midfielder Cesc Fàbregas and high-scoring Togolese international striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
Lauded for their attractive attacking style some question whether Arsenal's open game can be effective on the tight stage of the Champions League tournament. We'll find out on Wednesday as they face off against reigning champions AC Milan.
Chelsea FC
aka: the Blues, The Pensioners
Chelsea Football Club is another of the EPL's most successful clubs. Since the late 1990's they are experiencing one of the best eras in their history having won the Premiership two of the last three years. Chelsea was bought in 2003 by Russian oil magnate Roman Abramovich who hasn't hesitated to invest a significant portion of his sizeable wealth to bring top talent to his club. Abramovich's biggest dream is to capture the Champions League trophy for the first time in the Blues' history. Chelsea are considered to be a New York Yankees of sorts in the football world with their sky high payroll and laundry list of international superstars.
After failing to win a third consecutive EPL title last year, the longtime friction between Chelsea's famous Portugese manager José "the Special One" Mourinho and Abramovich boiled over when Chelsea started this season less than spectacularly. The two sides agreed to part ways by 'mutual consent' in late Septmeber. Abramovich appointed the club's Director of Football, Israeli Avram Grant, as replacment manager - much to the chagrin of players and fans alike who felt he lacked the professional experience to lead a world class club. After a poor start and amidst loud protest Avram Grant has slowly led the Blues back to form. On the pitch Chelsea is buoyed by British internationals, John Terry and Frank Lampard, high powered Cote d'Ivoirian international striker Didier Drogba, Ukrainian superstar striker Andriy Schevchenko, and a resurgent German national team captain and midfielder Michael Ballack.
Riding a recent improvement in form Chelsea is currently third in the EPL behind Arsenal and Manchester United. Now Abramovich and Grant would like nothing more than to silence their chorus of critics by taking Chelsea farther in the Champions League tournament than Mourinho did during his tenure with the London club. The Blues will like their chances against upstart Greek side Olympiacos.
Liverpool FC
aka: the Reds
In term of trophies, Liverpool Football Club is the most successful club in the history of English football. They have won the third most European Championships of any club, with five. Liverpool now have American ownership as George Gillett and Tom Hicks bought the club in 2006. Despite the Reds lack of success in the EPL, having finished no better than 3rd in the last four seasons, they've had surprising success in the Champions League, having won the tournament three years ago and advancing to the final which they lost last year to AC Milan.
Liverpool is managed by master tactician Spaniard Rafa Benitez, captained by English international star midfielder Steven Gerrard, and led on attack by too-tall British striker, Peter Crouch, Dutch forward Dirk Kuyt, and the newly arrived young Spanish international starlet striker Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid who they signed for a record sum during the summer transfer period.
As Liverpool has continued to struggle in the Premiership this season there have been public spats between ownership and manager Rafa Benitez who enjoys popular support among the faithful but whose critics claim he has built the team to compete best in the tournament format of Europe and not the long grueling season of the domestic league. Captain Steven Gerrard has gone so far as to advise the club to forget about the EPL title and focus on Champions Leage qualification for next year. You can bet the Reds see success against Inter Milan as their only salvation for an otherwise disappointing and tumultous season.
Manchester United FC
aka: the Red Devils, Man U, United
Manchester United Football Club is one of the world's most popular and successful sports clubs with over 50 million supporters worldwide. Consistently listed as one of the richest football clubs in the world, Man U was controversially taken over by American businessman Malcom Glazer when he acquired a controlling interest in the club in 2005. In recent history United have been the most successful side in England having won nine of the last fourteen EPL titles and the Champions League in 1999.
Their Scottish manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, has won more trophies than any other manager in English football history and helmed Man U for 20 seasons. Anchored by stalwart vice-captain Welsh international winger Ryan Giggs, United has perhaps the most exciting attacking talent in the tournament led by their youth movement - young British striker Wayne Rooney, creative Portugese winger and runner-up Footballer of the Year Christiano Ronaldo, Argentinian international striker Carlos Tevez, and Portugese international forward Nani.
Last year Manchester United ended Chelsea's two year streak as EPL champions and have continued that momentum to the top of the table this year where they are currently five points off Arsenal's pace. United look to reward their loyal fans with a third Champions League trophy but must first leap the hurdle of talented French side Lyon.
aka: the Gunners
Arsenal Football Club is one of the most successful and popularly supported clubs in English football history. Based in Holloway, north London, they became the first London side to reach the Champions League final two years ago in a loss to FC Barcelona. Arsenal gained a worldwide fan base over the last decade with their success in England and Europe. The Gunners undefeated season in 2003-4 is regarded as one of the best single seasons in football history earning the team the nickname "The Invincibles". In recent history Arsenal has fallen from their lofty heights as they've failed to finish in the top two of the EPL the last two seasons. Many felt the offseason departure of beloved captain and French international forward Thierry Henry to Barcelona would spell further trouble for the club. Instead the young team seems to have gained a new life with their new identity and have overtaken Manchester United for the lead in the EPL title race.
Their French manager, Arsene Wenger, is widely regarded as one of the best in the world having led the Gunners to first or second place in the EPL eight of his eleven seasons at the club. Anchored in the back by club captain and French international defender William Gallas, vice-captain Cote d'Ivoirian international defender Kolo Touré, and vice-captain Brazilian international defensive midfielder Gilberto, Arsenal feature an array of young offensive talent in Spanish international playmaker midfielder Cesc Fàbregas and high-scoring Togolese international striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
Lauded for their attractive attacking style some question whether Arsenal's open game can be effective on the tight stage of the Champions League tournament. We'll find out on Wednesday as they face off against reigning champions AC Milan.
Chelsea FC
aka: the Blues, The Pensioners
Chelsea Football Club is another of the EPL's most successful clubs. Since the late 1990's they are experiencing one of the best eras in their history having won the Premiership two of the last three years. Chelsea was bought in 2003 by Russian oil magnate Roman Abramovich who hasn't hesitated to invest a significant portion of his sizeable wealth to bring top talent to his club. Abramovich's biggest dream is to capture the Champions League trophy for the first time in the Blues' history. Chelsea are considered to be a New York Yankees of sorts in the football world with their sky high payroll and laundry list of international superstars.
After failing to win a third consecutive EPL title last year, the longtime friction between Chelsea's famous Portugese manager José "the Special One" Mourinho and Abramovich boiled over when Chelsea started this season less than spectacularly. The two sides agreed to part ways by 'mutual consent' in late Septmeber. Abramovich appointed the club's Director of Football, Israeli Avram Grant, as replacment manager - much to the chagrin of players and fans alike who felt he lacked the professional experience to lead a world class club. After a poor start and amidst loud protest Avram Grant has slowly led the Blues back to form. On the pitch Chelsea is buoyed by British internationals, John Terry and Frank Lampard, high powered Cote d'Ivoirian international striker Didier Drogba, Ukrainian superstar striker Andriy Schevchenko, and a resurgent German national team captain and midfielder Michael Ballack.
Riding a recent improvement in form Chelsea is currently third in the EPL behind Arsenal and Manchester United. Now Abramovich and Grant would like nothing more than to silence their chorus of critics by taking Chelsea farther in the Champions League tournament than Mourinho did during his tenure with the London club. The Blues will like their chances against upstart Greek side Olympiacos.
Liverpool FC
aka: the Reds
In term of trophies, Liverpool Football Club is the most successful club in the history of English football. They have won the third most European Championships of any club, with five. Liverpool now have American ownership as George Gillett and Tom Hicks bought the club in 2006. Despite the Reds lack of success in the EPL, having finished no better than 3rd in the last four seasons, they've had surprising success in the Champions League, having won the tournament three years ago and advancing to the final which they lost last year to AC Milan.
Liverpool is managed by master tactician Spaniard Rafa Benitez, captained by English international star midfielder Steven Gerrard, and led on attack by too-tall British striker, Peter Crouch, Dutch forward Dirk Kuyt, and the newly arrived young Spanish international starlet striker Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid who they signed for a record sum during the summer transfer period.
As Liverpool has continued to struggle in the Premiership this season there have been public spats between ownership and manager Rafa Benitez who enjoys popular support among the faithful but whose critics claim he has built the team to compete best in the tournament format of Europe and not the long grueling season of the domestic league. Captain Steven Gerrard has gone so far as to advise the club to forget about the EPL title and focus on Champions Leage qualification for next year. You can bet the Reds see success against Inter Milan as their only salvation for an otherwise disappointing and tumultous season.
Manchester United FC
aka: the Red Devils, Man U, United
Manchester United Football Club is one of the world's most popular and successful sports clubs with over 50 million supporters worldwide. Consistently listed as one of the richest football clubs in the world, Man U was controversially taken over by American businessman Malcom Glazer when he acquired a controlling interest in the club in 2005. In recent history United have been the most successful side in England having won nine of the last fourteen EPL titles and the Champions League in 1999.
Their Scottish manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, has won more trophies than any other manager in English football history and helmed Man U for 20 seasons. Anchored by stalwart vice-captain Welsh international winger Ryan Giggs, United has perhaps the most exciting attacking talent in the tournament led by their youth movement - young British striker Wayne Rooney, creative Portugese winger and runner-up Footballer of the Year Christiano Ronaldo, Argentinian international striker Carlos Tevez, and Portugese international forward Nani.
Last year Manchester United ended Chelsea's two year streak as EPL champions and have continued that momentum to the top of the table this year where they are currently five points off Arsenal's pace. United look to reward their loyal fans with a third Champions League trophy but must first leap the hurdle of talented French side Lyon.
The Clubs: Los Españoles
FC Barcelona
aka: Barça (pronounced Bar-sah), the Blaugrana (Blue-Maroons)
Football Club Barcelona is a highly successful Spanish side from Catalunya, Spain who have the second most European trophies in Spanish history with two. In recent years Barça has experienced a golden age, having won two of the last three Spanish La Liga titles as well as the Champions League two years ago in an exciting 2-1 win over Arsenal in Paris. They are member-owned and have been a bastion of Catalan pride and identity throughout their tumultous history. Barça was the key symbol and expression of resistance against the Fascist regime of Franco and his favored Real Madrid side during decades of oppression. Their role in civic history is cannonized in their club motto: "Mes que un club" (Catalan for "More than a club"). This slogan took on a deeper meaning with their historic partnership with UNICEF last fall. While Barça had long held out against the common practice of adopting coporate logos on their shirts in exchange for millions of dollars of endorsement money, they signed a five year deal with UNICEF wherein they will donate $1.9 million to the organization each year and wear UNICEF's logo on their shirts. For Barça supporters it is not enough to win, they must win beautifully.
Barça is helmed by the ever cool and highly effective Dutchman, Frank Rijkaard. Captained by the solid Spanish defender, Carles Puyol, Barça is awash in international and domestic superstars with the Brazillian forward Ronaldinho, Portugese midfielder Deco, Mexican team captain defender Rafa Marquez, Cameroonian international striker Samuel Eto'o, young Argentine wunderkind Lionel Messi, and their high publicized offseason aquisition French international forward Thierry Henry from Arsenal.
Last season's La Liga campaign was a major disappointment for Barça supporters as the Blaugrana forfeited the title to arch-rival Real Madrid in the last week of the tournament. Barça were playing for their third consecutive championship and led the league almost the entire season but tied Madrid on points at the end of the season. Agonizingly, Barcelona lost the tie-breaker based on the goal differential in the two head-to-head matches they played against Madrid. The bitter taste of that lost title along with a tumultous season in the press with rumors of club displeasure with Ronaldinho and manager Rijkaard have fueled speculation that the club is on the decline. Success against Celtic on Wednesday would go a long way to edify their critical club members.
Real Madrid CF
aka: Los Blancos (The Whites), Los Merengues (The Meringues)
Simply put, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol is the most successful club in Spain having won thirty La Liga titles and in Europe having won nine Champions League titles. Real Madrid is the biggest, most popular, and richest club in the world. In recent years Madrid had justifiably aquired the nickname 'Los Galácticos' because of their gaudy list of international superstars such as Zidane, Ronaldo, Luís Figo, Roberto Carlos, Raul and David Beckham. However, despite their star-studded lineup, for the last four seasons Real had failed to win any hardware in the domestic or European leagues until they snatched the Spanish crown from Barcelona at the end of last season. This year Los Blancos have abandoned the Galáctico philosophy by offloading many of their famous players in favor of a younger, more team-oriented club.
Despite winning La Liga, Real sacked their Italian manager Fabio Capello, widely regarded as one of the best in professional football, during the summer and replaced him with successful German manager Bernd Schuster who has a long history in La Liga as a player with Barça and Madrid as well as a manager with Levante and Getafe. Schuster has built a tight squad anchored by star defenders Italian international Fabio Cannavaro and Spanish international Sergio Ramos. The attack is led by veteran club captain and Spanish international forward Raúl, the always high-scoring Dutch international Ruud van Nistleroy, and the young Brazilian phenom Robinho.
Real currently sit five points above Barcelona at the top of La Liga where they've resided most of the season. Schuster hopes to guide them to their first European title in six years but must overcome a stiff challenge in talented Italian side AS Roma.
Sevilla FC
aka: Sevillistas, Rojiblancos (Red-Whites), Palanganas (Washbowl)
Sevilla Football Club is a member owned football club from Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain. While they have not had the historical success of the bigger Spanish clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, or Valencia, Sevilla have won a glut of hardware over the last two seasons in La Liga and in Europe. They have won the UEFA Cup (a secondary European tournament to the Champions League) the last two years, the 2006 UEFA Super Cup (UEFA Cup winners v. the Champions League winners), the 2006 Copa Del Rey and the 2007 Supercopa de España. Thus Sevilla has decidedly proven they can beat the biggest clubs in Europe on any given night.
Sevilla is managed by Manolo Jiménez, the former reserve team coach, who took over two months into this season when manager Juande Ramos resigned to cash in on his club's recent success by signing a lucrative contract with the English Premiership's Tottenham Hotspur. Sevilla play a fast attacking style of football which will press even the best clubs in Europe. They are stacked with domestic and international talent like Spaniards Jesús Navas (midfielder) and 19 year-old Diego Capel (midfield), Malian internationals Frédéric Kanouté (striker), superstar and current African Footballer of the Year, and Seydou Keita, as well as Brazilian internationals Daniel Alves (defender) and Luís Fabiano (striker).
Sevilla was devestated at the beginning of the La Liga season when their popular Spanish international midfielder Antonio Puerta collapsed during a game from a series of cardiac arrests and died three days later. This tragedy coupled with their manager leaving for England in the middle of the season doomed Sevilla to a lethargic start to their domestic league campaign. Recently however Sevilla have rekindled the form which brought them so much success in the last two seasons. Having dedicated this season to their fallen comrade Puerta they will need to be at their high-flying best to continue their run in Europe by crashing Fenerbahçe out of the Round of 16.
aka: Barça (pronounced Bar-sah), the Blaugrana (Blue-Maroons)
Football Club Barcelona is a highly successful Spanish side from Catalunya, Spain who have the second most European trophies in Spanish history with two. In recent years Barça has experienced a golden age, having won two of the last three Spanish La Liga titles as well as the Champions League two years ago in an exciting 2-1 win over Arsenal in Paris. They are member-owned and have been a bastion of Catalan pride and identity throughout their tumultous history. Barça was the key symbol and expression of resistance against the Fascist regime of Franco and his favored Real Madrid side during decades of oppression. Their role in civic history is cannonized in their club motto: "Mes que un club" (Catalan for "More than a club"). This slogan took on a deeper meaning with their historic partnership with UNICEF last fall. While Barça had long held out against the common practice of adopting coporate logos on their shirts in exchange for millions of dollars of endorsement money, they signed a five year deal with UNICEF wherein they will donate $1.9 million to the organization each year and wear UNICEF's logo on their shirts. For Barça supporters it is not enough to win, they must win beautifully.
Barça is helmed by the ever cool and highly effective Dutchman, Frank Rijkaard. Captained by the solid Spanish defender, Carles Puyol, Barça is awash in international and domestic superstars with the Brazillian forward Ronaldinho, Portugese midfielder Deco, Mexican team captain defender Rafa Marquez, Cameroonian international striker Samuel Eto'o, young Argentine wunderkind Lionel Messi, and their high publicized offseason aquisition French international forward Thierry Henry from Arsenal.
Last season's La Liga campaign was a major disappointment for Barça supporters as the Blaugrana forfeited the title to arch-rival Real Madrid in the last week of the tournament. Barça were playing for their third consecutive championship and led the league almost the entire season but tied Madrid on points at the end of the season. Agonizingly, Barcelona lost the tie-breaker based on the goal differential in the two head-to-head matches they played against Madrid. The bitter taste of that lost title along with a tumultous season in the press with rumors of club displeasure with Ronaldinho and manager Rijkaard have fueled speculation that the club is on the decline. Success against Celtic on Wednesday would go a long way to edify their critical club members.
Real Madrid CF
aka: Los Blancos (The Whites), Los Merengues (The Meringues)
Simply put, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol is the most successful club in Spain having won thirty La Liga titles and in Europe having won nine Champions League titles. Real Madrid is the biggest, most popular, and richest club in the world. In recent years Madrid had justifiably aquired the nickname 'Los Galácticos' because of their gaudy list of international superstars such as Zidane, Ronaldo, Luís Figo, Roberto Carlos, Raul and David Beckham. However, despite their star-studded lineup, for the last four seasons Real had failed to win any hardware in the domestic or European leagues until they snatched the Spanish crown from Barcelona at the end of last season. This year Los Blancos have abandoned the Galáctico philosophy by offloading many of their famous players in favor of a younger, more team-oriented club.
Despite winning La Liga, Real sacked their Italian manager Fabio Capello, widely regarded as one of the best in professional football, during the summer and replaced him with successful German manager Bernd Schuster who has a long history in La Liga as a player with Barça and Madrid as well as a manager with Levante and Getafe. Schuster has built a tight squad anchored by star defenders Italian international Fabio Cannavaro and Spanish international Sergio Ramos. The attack is led by veteran club captain and Spanish international forward Raúl, the always high-scoring Dutch international Ruud van Nistleroy, and the young Brazilian phenom Robinho.
Real currently sit five points above Barcelona at the top of La Liga where they've resided most of the season. Schuster hopes to guide them to their first European title in six years but must overcome a stiff challenge in talented Italian side AS Roma.
Sevilla FC
aka: Sevillistas, Rojiblancos (Red-Whites), Palanganas (Washbowl)
Sevilla Football Club is a member owned football club from Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain. While they have not had the historical success of the bigger Spanish clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, or Valencia, Sevilla have won a glut of hardware over the last two seasons in La Liga and in Europe. They have won the UEFA Cup (a secondary European tournament to the Champions League) the last two years, the 2006 UEFA Super Cup (UEFA Cup winners v. the Champions League winners), the 2006 Copa Del Rey and the 2007 Supercopa de España. Thus Sevilla has decidedly proven they can beat the biggest clubs in Europe on any given night.
Sevilla is managed by Manolo Jiménez, the former reserve team coach, who took over two months into this season when manager Juande Ramos resigned to cash in on his club's recent success by signing a lucrative contract with the English Premiership's Tottenham Hotspur. Sevilla play a fast attacking style of football which will press even the best clubs in Europe. They are stacked with domestic and international talent like Spaniards Jesús Navas (midfielder) and 19 year-old Diego Capel (midfield), Malian internationals Frédéric Kanouté (striker), superstar and current African Footballer of the Year, and Seydou Keita, as well as Brazilian internationals Daniel Alves (defender) and Luís Fabiano (striker).
Sevilla was devestated at the beginning of the La Liga season when their popular Spanish international midfielder Antonio Puerta collapsed during a game from a series of cardiac arrests and died three days later. This tragedy coupled with their manager leaving for England in the middle of the season doomed Sevilla to a lethargic start to their domestic league campaign. Recently however Sevilla have rekindled the form which brought them so much success in the last two seasons. Having dedicated this season to their fallen comrade Puerta they will need to be at their high-flying best to continue their run in Europe by crashing Fenerbahçe out of the Round of 16.
The Clubs: Gli Italiani
AC Milan (Milan)
aka: Rossoneri (red-blacks), Il Diavolo (the Devil)
Associazione Calcio Milan is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in the world having won the Champions League seven times (second only to Real Madrid) - most recently in a memorable final against Liverpool last year in Athens. Owned by the powerful media magnate and former Italian President Silvio Berlusconi, Milan has spared no expense in building their squad of international and domestic superstars. Despite their storied history Milan has stumbled in the last four attempts in the Italian Serie A and were further hurt last year when they were penalized 8 points to start the season because of their implication in the match fixing scandal that rocked Italian football (il Calcio) in 2006. Yet they've surprisingly continued to be one of the most competitive clubs in the Champions League having appeared in two of the last three finals.
Successful manager Carlo Ancelotti has helmed the club since 2001. With a staunch defense in Italian stars Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini (regarded as one of the best in history), and the Brazillian Cafu, and midfielders like Italian international Gennaro Gattuso, free kick specialist Italian international Andrea Pirlo, and the young Brazillian superstar and reigning World Footballer of the year Kaka. Milan has strengthened their side with the recent addition of Brazillian international megastar Ronaldo and young Brazilian starlet striker Alexandre Pato ("Alex the Duck").
Continuing their domestic struggles Milan currently reside in lowly fifth place in Serie A where they would fail to even qualify for a place in next year's Champions League tournament. They've also been eliminated by mid-table Catania Calcio in the Coppa Italia so the Rossoneri will put all their eggs in the Champions League basket as they aim to return to the final for the third time in four years. To do so they must knock out high-flying Arsenal.
FC Internazionale Milan (Inter Milan, Inter)
aka: Nerazzuri (Black-Blues), La Beneamata (the Cherished)
Football Club Internazionale Milano are the third most successful club in Italy behind only Juventus and bitter crosstown rivals AC Milan. They are the only Italian side to never have been relegated to a lower league. Inter is riding high on a wave of success over the last two seasons as they've won two Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia. They were among the favorites to win last year's Champions League but were unceremoniously eliminated in the Round of 16 by Valencia in a match that ended in a rowdy brawl.
Four year manager Roberto Mancini fields a stong international squad of superstars with a seven player Argentinian contingent. Inter's defense is led by vice-captain Colombian defender Iván Córdoba and vice-captain Italian international defender (and Zidane headbuttee) Marco Materazzi. The Nerazzuri's midfield is anchored by veteran club captain Argentinian Javier Zanetti, his countryman Esteban Cambiasso, and Serbian international captain Dejan Stanković. The attack is led by high-scoring tempermental Swedish superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Argentinian international striker Julio Cruz, and Honduran international striker David Suazo. Inter also count Portugese winger/midfielder Luis Figo, widely held as one of the best of his era, and Argentinian star striker Hernan Crespo among its veteran leadership.
Inter currently sit well above the Serie A table, besting closest rival Roma by a comfortable 11 points. The Nerazzuri would love to put the cherry on top of this glowing moment in their club history with their first European Championship in 43 years. To do it they'll have to knock off perrenial powerhouse Liverpool.
AS Roma
aka: Giallorossi (Yellow-Reds), I Lupi (the Wolves)
Associazione Sportiva Roma represent Rome in Serie A alongside their intercity rivals Lazio. Although enjoying a period of success in the 2000s - a Serie A title in 2001, and a Coppa Italia title in 2007 - they are more often than not playing second fiddle with four Runners-up finishes in Serie A and three Runners-up finishes in the Coppa Italila in the last six years. The closest they've come to a European title was Runners-up int 1983-84 tournament.
Roma's manager, Luciano Spalletti, has made a name for himself in the notoriously defensive Italian Serie A by adopting a relatively creative attacking style of play. They are led most famously by their captain, Italian forward Francesco Totti as well as Italian defender, Christian Panucci, Italian midfielder Daniele De Rossi, and the talented Brazillian winger Mancini who scored one of the most dazzling goals of last year's tournament. Additionally Roma have added to their attacking possibilities by aquiring the speedy French international winger Ludovic Giuly from Barcelona.
Roma currently sit in second place in Serie A, well behind leaders Inter Milan. The Giallorossi would love to take that next step and win a championship on the European stage. They show moments of brilliance but need to put together a long string of good form to overcome Spanish giants Real Madrid.
aka: Rossoneri (red-blacks), Il Diavolo (the Devil)
Associazione Calcio Milan is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in the world having won the Champions League seven times (second only to Real Madrid) - most recently in a memorable final against Liverpool last year in Athens. Owned by the powerful media magnate and former Italian President Silvio Berlusconi, Milan has spared no expense in building their squad of international and domestic superstars. Despite their storied history Milan has stumbled in the last four attempts in the Italian Serie A and were further hurt last year when they were penalized 8 points to start the season because of their implication in the match fixing scandal that rocked Italian football (il Calcio) in 2006. Yet they've surprisingly continued to be one of the most competitive clubs in the Champions League having appeared in two of the last three finals.
Successful manager Carlo Ancelotti has helmed the club since 2001. With a staunch defense in Italian stars Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini (regarded as one of the best in history), and the Brazillian Cafu, and midfielders like Italian international Gennaro Gattuso, free kick specialist Italian international Andrea Pirlo, and the young Brazillian superstar and reigning World Footballer of the year Kaka. Milan has strengthened their side with the recent addition of Brazillian international megastar Ronaldo and young Brazilian starlet striker Alexandre Pato ("Alex the Duck").
Continuing their domestic struggles Milan currently reside in lowly fifth place in Serie A where they would fail to even qualify for a place in next year's Champions League tournament. They've also been eliminated by mid-table Catania Calcio in the Coppa Italia so the Rossoneri will put all their eggs in the Champions League basket as they aim to return to the final for the third time in four years. To do so they must knock out high-flying Arsenal.
FC Internazionale Milan (Inter Milan, Inter)
aka: Nerazzuri (Black-Blues), La Beneamata (the Cherished)
Football Club Internazionale Milano are the third most successful club in Italy behind only Juventus and bitter crosstown rivals AC Milan. They are the only Italian side to never have been relegated to a lower league. Inter is riding high on a wave of success over the last two seasons as they've won two Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia. They were among the favorites to win last year's Champions League but were unceremoniously eliminated in the Round of 16 by Valencia in a match that ended in a rowdy brawl.
Four year manager Roberto Mancini fields a stong international squad of superstars with a seven player Argentinian contingent. Inter's defense is led by vice-captain Colombian defender Iván Córdoba and vice-captain Italian international defender (and Zidane headbuttee) Marco Materazzi. The Nerazzuri's midfield is anchored by veteran club captain Argentinian Javier Zanetti, his countryman Esteban Cambiasso, and Serbian international captain Dejan Stanković. The attack is led by high-scoring tempermental Swedish superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Argentinian international striker Julio Cruz, and Honduran international striker David Suazo. Inter also count Portugese winger/midfielder Luis Figo, widely held as one of the best of his era, and Argentinian star striker Hernan Crespo among its veteran leadership.
Inter currently sit well above the Serie A table, besting closest rival Roma by a comfortable 11 points. The Nerazzuri would love to put the cherry on top of this glowing moment in their club history with their first European Championship in 43 years. To do it they'll have to knock off perrenial powerhouse Liverpool.
AS Roma
aka: Giallorossi (Yellow-Reds), I Lupi (the Wolves)
Associazione Sportiva Roma represent Rome in Serie A alongside their intercity rivals Lazio. Although enjoying a period of success in the 2000s - a Serie A title in 2001, and a Coppa Italia title in 2007 - they are more often than not playing second fiddle with four Runners-up finishes in Serie A and three Runners-up finishes in the Coppa Italila in the last six years. The closest they've come to a European title was Runners-up int 1983-84 tournament.
Roma's manager, Luciano Spalletti, has made a name for himself in the notoriously defensive Italian Serie A by adopting a relatively creative attacking style of play. They are led most famously by their captain, Italian forward Francesco Totti as well as Italian defender, Christian Panucci, Italian midfielder Daniele De Rossi, and the talented Brazillian winger Mancini who scored one of the most dazzling goals of last year's tournament. Additionally Roma have added to their attacking possibilities by aquiring the speedy French international winger Ludovic Giuly from Barcelona.
Roma currently sit in second place in Serie A, well behind leaders Inter Milan. The Giallorossi would love to take that next step and win a championship on the European stage. They show moments of brilliance but need to put together a long string of good form to overcome Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
The Clubs: The Rest
Celtic FC
aka: the Bhoys, the Hoops (in reference to their green striped shirts)
Together with arch rivals Rangers FC, Celtic Football Club is part of the "Old Firm", one of the oldest and most famous rivalries in world football. Celtic is the only Scottish team to have won a European Championship (1967) and were runners up in 1970. They are also the only club ever to do so with a team entirely composed of home-grown players. Celtic fans are widely regarded as some of the best travelling fans in the world, attending events in foreign countries in vast numbers while causing little trouble along the way. Of late Celtic have had their run of the domestic league, winning the Scottish Premier League five of the last seven years. Last year Celtic proved they could play with the big clubs by advancing to the Champions League Round of 16 where they valiantly battled Milan to a 0-0 draw through four halves of football only to lose heartbreakingly on a single Kaka goal in extra-time.
Celtic is captained by Scottish international defender Stephen McManus, a product of the Celtic youth academy, high-scoring Australian international striker Scott McDonald, and Dutch international striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink. The Hoops' not-so-secret weapon is playmaking Japanese international midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura who's devestating free-kick ability was on full display during last year's competition. Additionally an intriguing player in a wave of recent signings for Celtic is young Japanese international midfielder Koki Mizuno. Apparently the Scotland-Japan bond is growing tighter.
Celtic are currently four points behind leaders Rangers in the Scottish Premier League. Their tie against Barcelona promises to be a celebration of European football at it's best, as both clubs hold themselves to a higher standard of fairplay, attractive football, and world-class atmosphere.
Fenerbahçe SK
aka: Sarı Kanaryalar (Yellow Canaries)
Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü (Fenerbahçe Sport Club) is a professional sports club in Istanbul, Turkey whose celebrated football branch is one of the "Big Four" in the Turkcell Süper Lig (Turkish Super League) where they've won a record seventeen titles. Though eighteen teams compete in the Turkish League each year only one of the "Big Four" have won the title since the league was formed in 1956. Fenerbahçe's epic derby matches against crosstown rivals Galatasaray SK form one of the most intense rivalries in European football. Enjoying a new period of success, the Yellow Canaries have won the Turkish Super League title three of the last four years and the Turkish Super Cup in 2007.
Fenerbahçe is managed by Zico, the superstar Brazilian midfielder of the 70's and 80's, who took over the Turkish club after a four year tenure at the helm of the Japanese national team who he led to win the 2004 Asian Cup and appear in the 2006 World Cup. While keeping some of Fenerbahçe's Turkish international veterans like vice-captains Önder Turacı (defender) and Semih Şentürk (striker), Zico signed a slew of South American (mostly Brazillian) talent to form the core of his squad. Players such as Brazillian international midfielder and club captain Alex, Brazilian international superstar defender Roberto Carlos from Real Madrid, and defensive midfielder and captain of the Chilean national team, Claudio Maldonado, add strong international experience and veteran leadership to the club.
While Fenerbahçe may not be the favorites to win the Final in May they are certainly capable of giving Sevilla a run for their pesetas.
Olympiacos CFP
aka: Thrylos (Legend), Erythrolefki (Red-Whites), Kokkini (Reds)
Olympiacos Club of Fans of Piraeus - based in Piraeus, Athens - is the most popular multi-sport club in Greece . The "Big Three" of Greek soccer - Olympiacos, Panathinaikos and AEK Athens - all hail from Athens and battle each year for the Super League Greece title. Their fiercely loyal fans have had a lot to celebrate over the last decade in Greece but want desperately to taste success on the European stage: although Olympiacos have won ten domestic titles in the last eleven seasons they have not appeared in the Champions League Round of 16 in nine years.
Olympiacos' manager, Panagiotis Lemonis, is a local boy who spent eight years at the club as a player and has had two stints as its coach. This time around he's brought the Red-Whites a Greek League championship and their first away Champions League win in club history. A core group of veteran players led by Greek internationals Antonis Nikopolidis (goalkeeper) and Ieroklis Stoltidis (midfielder) as well as Serbian captain Predrag Djordjević (midfielder) are complimented by a newly signed group of young talent including a contingent of five Argentinian players - most recently Fernando Belluschi (midfielder) from River Plate during the January transfer window.
The Red-Whites are currently locked in a dead heat for the Greek Super League title and face a tough task in their draw with Chelsea - one of the most loaded squads in Europe.
Olympique Lyonnaise (Lyon)
aka: OL, Les Gones
Olympique Lyonnais is by far the most successful side in recent French football history having won the Ligue 1 title six years in a row. Though not as famous or popular as French sides Olympique de Marseille, Paris Saint-Germain or AS Saint-Étienne, Lyon has gained a strong reputation in Europe due to their seven appearances in the Champions League. Despite their dominance domestically they have failed to advance beyond the Round of 8 each time they've tried.
They are managed by Frenchman, Gerard Houiller, widely regarded as one of the most knowledgable managers in the game. They are led by a host of Brazillian superstars - captain Juninho, nicknamed "Mr. 50%" for his uncanny ability to score on freekicks, as well as the ever opportunistic foward Fred, and defender Cris. The French international team is well represented at Lyon by national team goalkeeper and OL vice-captain, Gregory Coupet, midfielders Sydney Govou and Hatem Ben Arfa, and high-scoring striker Karim Benezema.
Lyon currently sit one point above second place Bordeaux in Lique 1. As the sole representative of France in this year's installment of the Champions League they face a stiff challenge in ultra talented Manchester United.
FC Porto
aka: Dragones (the Dragons), Azuis e Brancos (the Blue and Whites)
FC Porto together with Sporting Clube de Portugal and SL Benfica form the "Big Three" clubs in Portugese football. With two champions league titles (the most recent in 2004) Porto is the most successful Portugese side on the international stage. However Porto's 2004 success was followed by the departure of many of the key actors, like highly regarded manager Jose Mourinho to Chelsea, and star midfielder, Deco to Barcelona. Still Porto has managed to continue their success both domestically and in Europe having won the Portugese Liga the last two years and having advanced to the Champions League Round of 16 last year where they ultimately fell to Chelsea by a goal.
Porto is managed by the seasoned Portugese coach Jesualdo Ferreira and led on the pitch by their Angolan-born defender captain, Pedro Emanuel, Portugese international star winger Ricardo Quaresma, high-scoring Argentine international striker Lisandro López, and Argentine midfielder, Lucho Gonzales. Porto are loaded with at least seven players who've represented Portugal in the national team and five players from each of the two South American giants Argentina and Brazil.
Porto currently sit at the top of the Portugese Liga table by a large margin and strive to build on last year's European campaign by advancing to this year's Round of 8. To do that they'll next need to knock out German side Schalke.
FC Gelsenkirchen-Schalke 04 (Schalke)
aka: Die Königsblauen (The Royal Blues), Die Knappen (The Miners)
Schalke is located in the Schalke district of Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia and is the second largest sports club in Germany. Though the Royal Blues have always been one of Germany's most popular teams they have won precious few trophies since their golden age in the 30s and 40s. Schalke's been on a decent run over the last three years, having finished 2nd, 4th, and 2nd in the German Bundesliga respectively. Their fans still have a bitter taste in their mouths from last year's finish when Schalke who had led the league for most of the campaign relinquished first place to Stuttgart in the second-to-last week of the season. This is Schalke's first ever appearance in the Champions League Round of 16.
Managed by the German Mirko Slomka, Schalke is led by club captain and Brazilian international Marcelo Bordon (defender), German international Kevin Kurányi (striker), and hopes for many goals from January signee Uruguayan striker Vicente Sánchez from Mexican side Deportivo Toluca FC. Schalke is comprised of a good mix of Germans and Foreign players with their South American contingent evenly balanced between Brazilians and Uruguayans.
Schalke presently sit at 3rd in the Bundesliga table and are revelling in their role as Germany's sole Champions League survivors. They'd like nothing more that to knock Porto out of the tournament and advance to the Round of 8 for the first time in their history.
aka: the Bhoys, the Hoops (in reference to their green striped shirts)
Together with arch rivals Rangers FC, Celtic Football Club is part of the "Old Firm", one of the oldest and most famous rivalries in world football. Celtic is the only Scottish team to have won a European Championship (1967) and were runners up in 1970. They are also the only club ever to do so with a team entirely composed of home-grown players. Celtic fans are widely regarded as some of the best travelling fans in the world, attending events in foreign countries in vast numbers while causing little trouble along the way. Of late Celtic have had their run of the domestic league, winning the Scottish Premier League five of the last seven years. Last year Celtic proved they could play with the big clubs by advancing to the Champions League Round of 16 where they valiantly battled Milan to a 0-0 draw through four halves of football only to lose heartbreakingly on a single Kaka goal in extra-time.
Celtic is captained by Scottish international defender Stephen McManus, a product of the Celtic youth academy, high-scoring Australian international striker Scott McDonald, and Dutch international striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink. The Hoops' not-so-secret weapon is playmaking Japanese international midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura who's devestating free-kick ability was on full display during last year's competition. Additionally an intriguing player in a wave of recent signings for Celtic is young Japanese international midfielder Koki Mizuno. Apparently the Scotland-Japan bond is growing tighter.
Celtic are currently four points behind leaders Rangers in the Scottish Premier League. Their tie against Barcelona promises to be a celebration of European football at it's best, as both clubs hold themselves to a higher standard of fairplay, attractive football, and world-class atmosphere.
Fenerbahçe SK
aka: Sarı Kanaryalar (Yellow Canaries)
Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü (Fenerbahçe Sport Club) is a professional sports club in Istanbul, Turkey whose celebrated football branch is one of the "Big Four" in the Turkcell Süper Lig (Turkish Super League) where they've won a record seventeen titles. Though eighteen teams compete in the Turkish League each year only one of the "Big Four" have won the title since the league was formed in 1956. Fenerbahçe's epic derby matches against crosstown rivals Galatasaray SK form one of the most intense rivalries in European football. Enjoying a new period of success, the Yellow Canaries have won the Turkish Super League title three of the last four years and the Turkish Super Cup in 2007.
Fenerbahçe is managed by Zico, the superstar Brazilian midfielder of the 70's and 80's, who took over the Turkish club after a four year tenure at the helm of the Japanese national team who he led to win the 2004 Asian Cup and appear in the 2006 World Cup. While keeping some of Fenerbahçe's Turkish international veterans like vice-captains Önder Turacı (defender) and Semih Şentürk (striker), Zico signed a slew of South American (mostly Brazillian) talent to form the core of his squad. Players such as Brazillian international midfielder and club captain Alex, Brazilian international superstar defender Roberto Carlos from Real Madrid, and defensive midfielder and captain of the Chilean national team, Claudio Maldonado, add strong international experience and veteran leadership to the club.
While Fenerbahçe may not be the favorites to win the Final in May they are certainly capable of giving Sevilla a run for their pesetas.
Olympiacos CFP
aka: Thrylos (Legend), Erythrolefki (Red-Whites), Kokkini (Reds)
Olympiacos Club of Fans of Piraeus - based in Piraeus, Athens - is the most popular multi-sport club in Greece . The "Big Three" of Greek soccer - Olympiacos, Panathinaikos and AEK Athens - all hail from Athens and battle each year for the Super League Greece title. Their fiercely loyal fans have had a lot to celebrate over the last decade in Greece but want desperately to taste success on the European stage: although Olympiacos have won ten domestic titles in the last eleven seasons they have not appeared in the Champions League Round of 16 in nine years.
Olympiacos' manager, Panagiotis Lemonis, is a local boy who spent eight years at the club as a player and has had two stints as its coach. This time around he's brought the Red-Whites a Greek League championship and their first away Champions League win in club history. A core group of veteran players led by Greek internationals Antonis Nikopolidis (goalkeeper) and Ieroklis Stoltidis (midfielder) as well as Serbian captain Predrag Djordjević (midfielder) are complimented by a newly signed group of young talent including a contingent of five Argentinian players - most recently Fernando Belluschi (midfielder) from River Plate during the January transfer window.
The Red-Whites are currently locked in a dead heat for the Greek Super League title and face a tough task in their draw with Chelsea - one of the most loaded squads in Europe.
Olympique Lyonnaise (Lyon)
aka: OL, Les Gones
Olympique Lyonnais is by far the most successful side in recent French football history having won the Ligue 1 title six years in a row. Though not as famous or popular as French sides Olympique de Marseille, Paris Saint-Germain or AS Saint-Étienne, Lyon has gained a strong reputation in Europe due to their seven appearances in the Champions League. Despite their dominance domestically they have failed to advance beyond the Round of 8 each time they've tried.
They are managed by Frenchman, Gerard Houiller, widely regarded as one of the most knowledgable managers in the game. They are led by a host of Brazillian superstars - captain Juninho, nicknamed "Mr. 50%" for his uncanny ability to score on freekicks, as well as the ever opportunistic foward Fred, and defender Cris. The French international team is well represented at Lyon by national team goalkeeper and OL vice-captain, Gregory Coupet, midfielders Sydney Govou and Hatem Ben Arfa, and high-scoring striker Karim Benezema.
Lyon currently sit one point above second place Bordeaux in Lique 1. As the sole representative of France in this year's installment of the Champions League they face a stiff challenge in ultra talented Manchester United.
FC Porto
aka: Dragones (the Dragons), Azuis e Brancos (the Blue and Whites)
FC Porto together with Sporting Clube de Portugal and SL Benfica form the "Big Three" clubs in Portugese football. With two champions league titles (the most recent in 2004) Porto is the most successful Portugese side on the international stage. However Porto's 2004 success was followed by the departure of many of the key actors, like highly regarded manager Jose Mourinho to Chelsea, and star midfielder, Deco to Barcelona. Still Porto has managed to continue their success both domestically and in Europe having won the Portugese Liga the last two years and having advanced to the Champions League Round of 16 last year where they ultimately fell to Chelsea by a goal.
Porto is managed by the seasoned Portugese coach Jesualdo Ferreira and led on the pitch by their Angolan-born defender captain, Pedro Emanuel, Portugese international star winger Ricardo Quaresma, high-scoring Argentine international striker Lisandro López, and Argentine midfielder, Lucho Gonzales. Porto are loaded with at least seven players who've represented Portugal in the national team and five players from each of the two South American giants Argentina and Brazil.
Porto currently sit at the top of the Portugese Liga table by a large margin and strive to build on last year's European campaign by advancing to this year's Round of 8. To do that they'll next need to knock out German side Schalke.
FC Gelsenkirchen-Schalke 04 (Schalke)
aka: Die Königsblauen (The Royal Blues), Die Knappen (The Miners)
Schalke is located in the Schalke district of Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia and is the second largest sports club in Germany. Though the Royal Blues have always been one of Germany's most popular teams they have won precious few trophies since their golden age in the 30s and 40s. Schalke's been on a decent run over the last three years, having finished 2nd, 4th, and 2nd in the German Bundesliga respectively. Their fans still have a bitter taste in their mouths from last year's finish when Schalke who had led the league for most of the campaign relinquished first place to Stuttgart in the second-to-last week of the season. This is Schalke's first ever appearance in the Champions League Round of 16.
Managed by the German Mirko Slomka, Schalke is led by club captain and Brazilian international Marcelo Bordon (defender), German international Kevin Kurányi (striker), and hopes for many goals from January signee Uruguayan striker Vicente Sánchez from Mexican side Deportivo Toluca FC. Schalke is comprised of a good mix of Germans and Foreign players with their South American contingent evenly balanced between Brazilians and Uruguayans.
Schalke presently sit at 3rd in the Bundesliga table and are revelling in their role as Germany's sole Champions League survivors. They'd like nothing more that to knock Porto out of the tournament and advance to the Round of 8 for the first time in their history.
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