Champions League
2008-04-29 - Manchester United vs Barcelona
A Sports Betting Pick by Simon
UEFA Champions League
Tuesday 29th April 2008 - KO 19:45
First Leg Drawn 0-0
Will United Pay for Ronaldo Penalty Miss?
Cristiano Ronaldo was philosophical when asked about his penalty miss in the opening minutes of Manchester United’s semi-final first leg against Barcelona at the Nou Camp.
The Portuguese winger promised to make amends the wasted opportunity saying ‘I will score at Old Trafford’.
Alex Ferguson and all United fans will be hoping Ronaldo’s confidence is well-placed, but with the talent that Barca bring to the Theatre of Dreams, he may still come to regret his mistake.
In 2000 United faced Real Madrid in a second leg quarter-final at Old Trafford, after a 0-0 draw at the Bernabeu, only to lose 3-2.
Though the Red Devils had another genuine penalty claim waived away, the first leg was otherwise dominated by the Catalans.
With quick forwards such as Henry, Eto’o and Messi, Barca could punish United but outside of European competition, those rare talents have failed to deliver on the road.
Coach, Frank Rijkaard, has been unable to establish a successful formation, and has been hindered by injuries to key players.
Messi, Deco and Henry are all available but short of full fitness, while Ronaldinho is definitely out.
On the plus side, captain, Carles Puyol, returns having sat out the first leg due to suspension.
EUROPEAN FORM
Both sides are unbeaten in the Champions League this season and both sides can point to their European record in confidence.
Manchester United's recent home record in Europe in faultless with wins in each of their last six home games - and of course it's a win that is needed for United to progress.
However, Barcelona's travelling form in Europe is also good, with 4 wins and 2 draws. Five of those six results would be enough for Barca to progress and the other would force extra tme.
THE VERDICT
It's a very difficult game to pick confidently, because Manchester United have played a tentitive brand of football in the last week - failing to deliver their style in two big games.
Now, back at Old Trafford, I think that they will deliver, although the Red Devils will have to very very careful with the counter-attacking Catalans.
The first goal (from either side) should release any negative plans much as in the Liverpool v Arsenal second leg quarter-final tie and I think we will then see a good match - with the home side coming through.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Manchester United 2-1 Barcelona
