The Champions Rumbles

Last night, Real Madrid lined up against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in a semi-final Champions league clash. The Germans came out 2-1 victors of the encounter. This result, and most especially the resilient performance of the Munich stars, leaves many with doubt about the much talked-about probable final between the two Spanish giants- Real Madrid vs Barcelona.

Personally, I have expressed reservations on the possibility of Real Madrid progressing flawlessly into the finals. For one reason, Bayern will host this year’s Champions league Final, and will want to do anything within their powers to to play in it. Moreover, like I opined in one of my posts, Bayern Munich having lost grip of their league title, will throw everything on the way of Madrid, in other to lay hold of their only realistic chance of a major trophy this season....and I daresay that they will be better rivals to Barcelona than Real Madrid.

Tapping into Mourinho’s mindset yesterday, his approach to the game portrayed that he would have been satisfied with a draw. But that was not to be as the Germans ran riot as soon as Madrid got the equalizer. Real were unable to handle the fast attacking pace and quality of Ribery and Robben, coupled with the technical abilities of Lahm. Gomes' ever-prodding efforts were finally rewarded with the winning goal.

Real Madrid played that match, leaving an eye on the el clasico which comes up on Saturday. Nevertheless, I feel that approach wasn’t the best, as I expected them to kill this game off before thinking of Barca. With this move, they may lose both targets- Champions league and the La liga....most of us hope that never happens, as I am a profound admirer of the Portuguese tactician.

On the other hand, the away goal may be of great advantage to Real when the Bavarians visit Spain next week.

Moving on from there, Chelsea hosts Barca at the Bridge tonight. I expect a tough game, particularly for Di Matteo who will be new to High profile matches like this. I predict a tight encounter that can tilt to any side...I expect Chelsea to come out with a draw, if they can hold their own.

Let’s have your own prediction.