Seven time European Champions A.C. Milan host 2008 winners Manchester United in this mouth watering first knockout round clash. United have suffered at the hands of the Italian giants on a number of occasions, the most recent being in the 2006/07 season when they lost 3-0 in the Semi Final second leg, having won the first one 3-2, thanks to Rooney's injury time winner. Also of importance is the fact that United legend David Beckham is in line to play against his former employers for the first time since leaving in acrimonious circumstances back in 2003.
Milan have struggled in Europe since they won the competition back in 2007 against Liverpool, while United are the form team of the competition, having reached the Final in each of the last two editions of the tournament. Milan should find it discomforting that they failed to win any of their home group games in Europe this season. United, on the other hand, have not lost an away game in Europe since that 3-0 drubbing they suffered at the San Siro a few years ago.
While there is no guarantee that Beckham will be named in the starting XI for Milan, Alexandre Pato and Klaas Jan Huntelaar should start for the Italians. Also likely to start is Brazilian Ronaldinho, who almost signed for the English Champions in 2003, before opting for Barcelona. In defense, Gianluca Zambrotta is back after having served his suspension, and center back Thiago Silva is expected to shake off his thigh injury and push for a berth in the starting XI.
In contrast, United have a few injury concerns to deal with. Center back Nemanja Vidic is still recovering from his injury, while Anderson did not travel with the squad. Rio Ferdinand should return in the side and Fergie might pair him with Jonny Evans, should he decide to place Wes Brown at right back. Ryan Giggs is out with a fractured arm, but that shouldn't worry the Red Devils too much because of the fantastic form Wayne Rooney is in.
I expect the game to be very tough and physical. Chances will be few, and both sides will need to be at their best today. I predict a dull 1-1 draw.
No comments:
Post a Comment