Champions League Soccer Semifinals: First Leg Preview

[Shame About Ray]

The first leg of the 2008 Champions League semifinals is gearing up and will feature two Premier League juggernauts in Liverpool versus Chelsea in one semifinal and Barcelona against Manchester United in the other.

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Chelsea vs. Liverpool

This match will mark the third time these two teams have squared off against each other in the past four seasons. This year has seen only a subtle change in what is becoming an annual matchup. Chelsea have a different coach, but will stay in the same 4-3-3 formation; this year Chelsea will be looking to make a big change in the tide and may have an advantage since Liverpool will not be playing the second leg at home, but in west London. For Liverpool, an away win at Stamford Bridge will certainly require a spirited and aggressive offensive effort on Tuesday evening.

With questions surrounding the fitness of Steven Gerrard, striker Fernando Torres will be looked upon to elevate his game. Frank Lampard is expected to return to the Chelsea side in what could be his last Champions Cup as rumors surrounding his departure in the summer continue to fly. Liverpool’s defense will have to be stingy, as an away goal for Chelsea could be disastrous for Benitez’s side next week.

Barcelona vs. Manchester United

Manchester United will be facing a slumping Barcelona club in this matchup. Barcelona have yet to win in their past five matches and have managed to tally a paltry four goals during this period. That being said, there is nothing like Champions League competition to lift the level of play. Lionel Messi is expected to return to the Barcelona lineup and despite his fitness being less than 100 percent, the Argentinean is always dangerous. Thierry Henry will also look to make his presence felt against a Man Utd defense that has not looked in top form as of late.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney will be in top gear for this matchup, which appears to heavily favor the Red Devils. Barcelona are a club in disarray and they will be hard pressed to keep pace with a hungry Manchester United club on Wednesday night.

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