Champions League
2009-04-28 - Barcelona F.C vs Chelsea F.C
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Analysis:Guus Hiddink was brought in for one reason, to get Chelsea their first Champions League title,something which Claudio Ranieri, Jose Mounrinho and even Avram Grant failed to do in their term as managers of the club.
Their opponents will be Barcelona who made light work of Bayern Munich in the last round steam rolling over them to get to the semi-finals stage.
Pep Guardiola will also aim to do what Frank Rijkaard failed to do last season and that is to get them to the final and win them the coveted Champions League trophy.
But under former Valencia, Real Madrid and Real Betis coach Hiddink's guidance, Chelsea will feel that they can get to the final this time and get to the final in Rome.
For the record, Barcelona have been knocked out of Europe's elite competition by English opposition in the last two terms, Manchester United last season and by Liverpool, the previous year.
Chelsea goes into this clash knowing that they are unbeaten in their previous seven Champions League matches versus Spanish opposition while it must also be noted that the Catalans have managed just one victory in their last five matches against the West Londoners in Europe.
Guardiola will rely on his vast available players that he has for this match as he has a full squad to choose from. Chances are that defender Rafael Marquez and holding midfielder Yaya Toure will come back to the starting lineup after being rested in the 2-2 draw with Valencia at the weekend. In attack they also have the three man strike force of Lionel Messi, Samuel Eto'o and Thierry Henry upfront.
Central midfielder Xavi is another player that is vital in the team as he has assisted six goals in the Champions League so far this season - more than any other player.
For the visitors Chelsea, former Barcelona player Deco misses out while centre-back Ricardo Carvalho is also unavailable with hamstring injury. So we will see Brazil international Alex partnering captain John Terry in the middle of defence.
Jose Bosingwa will come into the left back slot to make up for Ashley Cole's absence through suspension. Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira remains long term injuries.
Go for Chelsea not to get beaten in this match.
Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser
The Pick :
Draw Match 1-1
BEST BETTING TIP :
Go for this match to end in a draw.
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Take Chelse and accept the 3/4 ball here.
