The World's most profitable football match? A place in next season's BPL is at stake as the Eagles try to fly past the Hornets

                                                   

After the Champions League war between German heavyweights, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, the famous Wembley, albeit new, is set to host another blockbuster showpiece event. For everyone in love with football, these matches should be contested every day. It is the CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFF FINAL and we are proud to be alive to witness yet another quest for prelation.

The disgraceful show at Brighton was not enough to deter Crystal Palace in the 2nd leg of their play-off semi-final. The show of utter shame led to the suspension of the Gus Poyet led coaching staff in view of his fury and displeasure of events before such an important game. Something that brought out the beast in the Uruguayan great. Whatever mess was discovered at the visitors' dressing room and whoever did it, must have thought it would frighten and distract the Eagles of South East London. Wilfried Zaha had other ideas, as he and Yannick Bolasie masterminded a great win at the Amex to secure passage to this afternoon's grand occasion. The Manchester United bound winger scored both goals to down the seagulls.

Watford had a more difficult route to Wembley. Nigel Pearson's foxes were worthy adversaries in the semi-final. A 1-0 win at the KP Stadium gave Leicester a slim, but precious advantage going into the second leg. However, the hornets had other ideas. Matej Vydra, on loan from Udinese and recently crowned Championship player of the season, showed why class is considered permanent, by scoring a sumptuous brace at Vicarage Road. Troy Deeney, who was sentenced to ten months imprisonment (cut to four) for affray last year, scored the deciding goal within 20 seconds of Anthony Knockaert's spot-kick fail. Manuel Almunia saved the penalty and immediately afterwards, Big Troy scored his 20th goal of a truly miraculous season to send Gianfranco Zola into delirium. It was one of the best climaxes that football has ever seen. The little Italian is heading to the 'pagoda' where he lifted two F.A Cup titles with Chelsea and also scored a fine winner for the Azzurri in a World Cup Qualifier 16 years ago. For Troy, the imprisonment, the loss of his father to cancer and all the travails he has encountered in the last eleven months can be put to bed if his team secure the final ticket to next season's English Premier League. From 'prison to the Premier League' will be the superlative  headline for all tabloids the World over. It has been an amazing return to professional football for the lad and victory today will be the crowning moment.

Giampaolo Pozzo, the man who bought over the club a little under a year ago from Stanmore business mogul, Laurence Bassini, must have been disappointed by the final day drama that left the hornets licking their wounds instead of celebrating automatic qualification to the Elite League of British Football. Nevertheless, the way Zola and his team have regrouped is commendable and praiseworthy. When despair comes, euphoria can follow suit, depending on what motivates you and how you handle the situation.


PROBABLE LINEUPs-
CRYSTAL PALACE- (4-3-3)
Speroni, Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Moxey, Dikgacoi, Jedinak, Garvan, ZAHA, Wilbraham, Williams

On paper, the team looks so ordinary. Well, it is the bulk of the above line-up that have brought the eagles this far. A return to the Premier League after eight years is something to literally give your life for. The campaign under Ian Dowie ended in calamity with 33 points garnered over 38 games and a return to the Championship almost immediately. If they win later today, the hurt can be erased with a good show next season. Zaha can propel them to victory and promotion to the Premier League and it will be the best parting gift he ever wrapped. The fleet footed, exciting wing wizard can be counted on to send the eagles flying even without wings. The absence of 30-goal hero, Glenn Murray (Championship top scorer), is a big blow to Palace's chances. His replacement, Aaron Wilbraham is goal shy and cannot be relied upon as his season performances have showed. Ian Holloway has an ace up his sleeves. On the bench, he possesses Yannick BOLASIE who has come on and provided the required boost more often than not. The Congolese who shares family ties with Kazenga and Lomana Tresor Lua Lua, is a good substitute as seen in the win over the seagulls at the Amex. Another man who waits for his time is the SUPER KEV. Top scorer in the EPL thirteen years ago with the black cats, he is always there to put one or two away when called upon. The well travelled excellent marksman shoots to kill.

Julian Speroni has been pure class throughout the season. Save after save at the Falmer's and Palace held hope and thrived on it. He can decide who plays among the big boys and who returns to fight another day. Danny Gabbidon and Delaney are not your everyday Maldini and Nesta combo, but they have been solid as a pair. Erratic at times, they have also put their bodies when/where necessary and can create problems for the Vydra-Deeney 40 goal partnership. Captain Mike Jedinak is optimistic as expected, that the eagles will fly safely today. The Australian agrees that they are the underdogs...who says underdogs can't win? We have been here before.

WATFORD- (3-5-2)
Almunia, Doyley, Ekstrand, Casseti, Anyam Chalobah, Hogg, Pudil, ABDI, VYDRA, DEENEY

The Pozzo family own three clubs-Granada (Bought in 09), Udinese (1986), Watford (2012). As a result of this, they brought in Vydra and Abdi from Udinese to bolster the Watford ranks and it has paid off. Eight other players came with them too.. However, the Czech and Swiss internationals have contributed the most to the hornets success. On loan Chelsea midfielder, Natty Chalobah has come in leaps and bounds too. The 18 year old Sierra Leonean has grown in stature and talent since his arrival. Long rangers are his stock in trade. He hits them with pace, power and precision most times. If Vydra and/or Tory decide to be quiet, he and Abdi can take over the mantle of responsibility. With 40 goals, Matej and Troy have proved they know where the goal is. One from both today wouldn't be a surprise.

Ian Holloway has been in this situation before. He succeeded with Blackpool, although the stay was short lived. He has another chance to make amends for an entertaining but failed season with the tangerines in 10-11. The outspoken and quote laden coach doesn't shy away from battles...in the press room or on the football pitch. His game plan might be ordinary, but he is far from foolish. Health problems haven't derailed him one bit. Crafty and quick witted he is. Let's see if he can use all his capabilities to swing the match in Palace's favour this afternoon.

Gianfranco Zola was one of the most fantastic footballers in his hey day(s). His managerial resume is not quite as resplendent. All that will change if he emerges victorious later on.

Bring on the most valuable football match in World football. According to Deloitte, it is worth a staggering 120 million GBP even if they go down as soon as they go up. It is departure day for Wilf Zaha...He can do that knowing fully well that he has given Palace the best of his playing days yet. Promotion is the aim...Anything other than that will be considered an exercise in futility.

Am a palace fan as the club is a stone throw from my place in London. Bus 468 to South Croydon (from Elephant and Castle) was always the transport implement whenever I had to watch the eagles play. One of the greatest moments of my life was touching the famous EAGLE which flies across Selhurst Park before any home game. I openly declare my favourites for the game. C'MON YOU EAGLES (COYE)......aye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Ohireime P Eboreime
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THE FIRST ALL GERMAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL IS MORE THAN A MATCH....BAYERN V DORTMUND..THE PREVIEW!

                                           
                               


When Bayern Munich dismantled Barcelona, the World became aware that a new super power has emerged. Jupp Henyckes has steadily turned the Reds of Bavaria into the heavy weights of European Football. However, to make it stick at least for the time being, Dortmund (again) stand in the way of FC HOLLYWOOD. The very same team that denied them the domestic double last season. The newly crowned German Champions upped the stakes this time around, winning the title with 6 rounds to spare and zooming through to the Pokal final (v. Stuttgart) exactly a week from today. They might have avenged the defeats to Dortmund with victories in the Super Cup and the Pokal last eight encounter, but the Bavarian red army are aware than anything other than victory tonight will be deemed totally unacceptable. It is now or never for Bayern Munich who have lost two finals in the last three seasons. Last year's the more agonizing.

Borussia Dortmund's story has been a fairytale one. Die Schwarzgelben failed woefully on the European front last season...Nevertheless, they came back strongly this time around, eliminating the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, Malaga, etc to reach today's showpiece event. The road to Wembley has been turbulent and difficult, but the Yellow and black army of Ruhr have weathered every storm since and tonight represents a chance to make up for what has been a disappointing domestic season. The 2011/2012 Bundesliga Champions ended the season a massive 25 points behind Bayern Munich and were sent out of the Pokal by today;s opponents. Dortmund know quite alright that Bayern are not finished yet. The pain and ache emanating from the two championships they lost to the Ruhr giants in addition to the crushing 5-2 defeat in the Pokal Final last May remain(s) fresh Victory over Dortmund will be the perfect finale.

Die Borussen were dealt a huge blow on Wednesday with the news that Mario Gotze will sit out the Final. The Bayern bound midfielder has failed to win the fitness battle and will never have the chance to repay the Dortmund fans who have cheered his name for more than a decade. Whatever happens, the Bundesliga runners-up might never be able to come to terms with the Gotze transfer which hit Jurgen Klopp harder than anyone associated with the German high flyers. In his interview with Donald McRae of the Guardian, he opined that when Michael Zorc (Dortmund Sporting Director) told him of Gotze's move to Bayern, he was befuddled and couldn't think about any other thing. He even had to skip an outing with his wife the very night and declined to speak with anyone. It was that hurtful.  This development, amongst many others, will be enough motivation for Dortmund to get one over Bayern tonight. With or without Mario, Die Scwarzgelben have a chance to claim their second European crown tonight and that they will strive tooth and nail to achieve.

One injury Bayern have got used to for the past 5-6 months is the absence of Holger Badstuber. The German international sustained a career threatening injury in December and suffered a relapse two weeks ago. He has since undergone a corrective surgery under the famous Dr Richard Steadman which is expected to keep him out for another ten months. In his stead, veteran Belgian, Danny Van Buyten has held sway, bringing all his experience to bare and combining almost perfectly with purchase of the season, Dante Costa Bonfim. The 29 year old Brazilian has earned rave reviews all season and deservedly so. That Bayern have remained ever so strong at the back in all competitions this campaign is largely down to his bravery and immense defensive capabilities. He has improved his strengths and worked on his weaknesses. He has stepped up since his 4.7 Million Euro move from Borussia Park. Together with Captain Lahm and Alaba, the quartet have kept clean sheets in all their knock-out games since Laurent Koscielny scored at the Allianz Arena. Juventus and the almighty Barcelona were shut out home and away.

If Bayern have Van Buyten and Dante in central defence, Dortmund possess Neven Subotic and Mats Hummels. The latter was groomed by Bayern Munich. He left for Dortmund initially on loan, until it was made permanent in February 2009. He has since gone on to not only become an indispensable general of Klopp's yellow and black army, but also one of the best defenders in the business. Perhaps the most sought after centre back in the World, he must prove himself today...the biggest of his career to date. It is not as if Neven Subotic is anything less that World Class. The Serbian has been a pillar at the back for Dortmund since his move from Mainz 05 five years ago.Only six days separate the pair (Neven and Mats) in age and both will not be 25 until December. Arguably the finest defensive pair in European Football.

PROBABLE LINEUPS-
DORTMUND-
Weidenfeller, Piszczek, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer, Gundogan, Bender S, Kuba, REUS, Groskreutz, Lewandowski

Roman Weidenfeller has been one of the best goalies in Europe this season. In fact, in one-on-one situations, he's arguably the best. The 32 year old custodian is one of the reasons why Dortmund find themselves within 90 (120 at most) minutes of being crowned Champions of Europe for only the 2nd time ever. Lukasz Piszczek is scheduled to undergo a hip operation soon after the season draws to a close. Something that will keep him out of action for at least four months. With the news that Gotze cannot feature, the absence of Mats Hummels would have been more excruciating for Die Borussen. The German defender has been declared fit to play. Club Captain, Sebastian Kehl has to make do with a place on the bench, with Sven Bender the preferred choice in midfield. Marco 'Rolls' Reus is expected to step into the void created by Gotze's absence from this match and departure from next season. When called upon, he has not disappointed. He is one of the most talented footballers in the German Top flight and discounting the threat he poses will be utterly fatal. 10-goal Pole, Roman Lewandowski, will look to redeem himself tonight after he inexplicably threw away the chance to score the winning goal v today's foes at the Iduna a few weeks ago. Despite that, his exploits against Real Madrid brought the Football World to a standstill and comparisons with the deadliest finishers in the Universe became rampant and countless. He has the ability to tear apart any defence, including the very one that hasn't conceded in four knockout games and counting. Gotze might be absent, but Kev Groskreutz is no amateur. He has showed his capabilities when called upon and scored a classy goal in the match v Die Roten  at the Iduna Park. He can do a job at Wembley, surely.

BAYERN MUNICH-\
Neuer, Lahm, Dante, Van Buyten, Alaba, Martinez J, Schweinsteiger, MULLER-ROBBEN-RIBERY, Mandzukic

Manuel Neuer is comfortably seated among the best five goaltenders in the World and rightly so. He is not Germany's Number One by default. Four straight clean sheets against Juventus and the Blaugrana is no mean feat. He is ably supported in defence by Lahm, Dante, Van Buyten and David Alaba. The Bayern skipper, Lahm, is the most disciplined full back in Football today and it is an official statement of fact. Jerome Boateng made an impression at the Camp Nou when Bayern ran riot......This might not be enough to keep out Van Buyten from the starting eleven. Toni Kroos has not been missed one bit. A better and more talented footballer (at least for now) has replaced him and performed even better. Arjen Robben, one half of the ROBBERY gang, has been almost unplayable since the Kroos injury. He tore Jordi Alba inside out and ensured that the left back got suspended for the return leg in Catalonia. He scored against the Spanish Champions home and away and put in some of the best all round displays you would ever ask of a winger. How Jupp Henyckes made him so habituated still baffles me. Javi Martinez didn't allow his Spanish compatriots a moment's rest in the Barcelona game. Xavi and Iniesta were vastly ineffective and it was down to his energetic display throughout the 180 minutes. He hassled and hassled until frustration set in for his more illustrious colleagues. It wouldn't have been possible without the support and extraordinary contribution  of Bastian Schweinsteiger. The cornerstone of the Bayern midfield and one of the best deep lying playmakers in the World rarely has a bad game. After hiding Andrea Pirlo in both legs of the quarter-final, it was the turn of Xavi Hernandez to be reduced to mere mediocrity. 'Schweini' as he is fondly called, is a contender for best footballer of 2013 if the Bavarians win the Champions League. Franck Ribery needs no analysis. What he has is clear for all to see. It is the Croat, Mario Mandzukic, who has surprised everyone with his mesmerizing performances. HE has relegated Mario Gomez to the subs bench and fittingly so. He doesn't score many, but his industry is a vital element. It is Thomas Muller who carries with him all the ammunition necessary to gun down their arch-enemies. His eight Champions League goals have come against the likes of Arsenal, Juventus and Barcelona. He is a big game player and has proven that so many times. The 2010 World Cup top scorer and best young player keeps improving. Whatever role he plays-whether behind the striker or on the wings, he gives his utmost.

A combined Bayern-Dortmund ELEVEN in my opinion will be----> NEUER, Lahm, Dante, Hummels, Schmelzer, Schweinsteiger, Gundogan, Muller, REUS, Robben, Lewandowski. You may agree or disagree. It is my humble opinion.

Ohireime P Eboreime
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THE HAWTHORNS will be the last place of adventure for Sir Alex Ferguson as West Brom play host to Manchester United

                                                


Sir Alex Ferguson takes charge of his 1500th and final game as Manchester United manager on Sunday v Steve Clarke's baggies. The managerial myth leads out his red troops for the last time before he hands over one of the most difficult jobs in the World to David Moyes. It will be the greatest swansong of all time as the Legendary Scot says 'au revoir' to a sport he has associated with for the better part of 50 years. Then again, there must be an end to everything, good or bad.

West Brom were hammered 4-0 at Carrow Road last weekend, so any idea of a grand sendoff for Sir Alex should be dispensed by the red army and its Field Marshal. It has been a long time since the baggies turned in a great performance at home. Therefore, Sunday's match is a must win for them, especially as there is a higher reward for every position you end up with in the Premier League. If they win, they stay 8th irrespective of what the Swansea result is.

Steve Clarke will field Romelu Lukaku for the final time as a West Brom player (at least for now). The Belgian youngster on loan from Chelsea, has scored 14 league goals this season and is one of the revelations of this fascinating campaign. Billy Jones has also be very impressive and Gareth McAuley has been rock solid. The latter just put pen to paper on a three year extension on his current deal. Good news ahead of the visit of the Champions.

SAF confirmed in his presser earlier that Phil Jones, who hasn't missed a game since the loss to Manchester City on April 8, will start in the centre of defence alongside Jonny Evans. Who to replace Rafa at right back is still kept close to the Old Dinosaur's chest. Mind games even when he is about to draw the curtains. Anders Lindegaard will play in goal as he also affirmed.

Probable Lineups-
WEST BROMWICH ALBION (WBA)-
Foster, Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Mulumbu, Yacob, Brunt, Morrison, Lukaku, Long

Markus Rosenberg has been praised by the gaffer every time he has played for the baggies. However, when Chris Brunt is fit, it is difficult to keep him out of the side. Ben Foster has performed well this season, bar his incredulous mistake which allowed Grant Holt to score the easiest goal of his career to date-amateur and professional level. Despite the howler, he will continue in goal. The pair of Yacob and Mulumbu have been exceptional all through. West Brom will do everything to retain them for future engagements.

MANCHESTER UNITED-
Lindegaard, Valencia, Jones, Evans, Buttner, Anderson, Cleverley, Nani, Kagawa, Chicharito, RVP

As earlier written, Anders will start in goal, Evans and Jones to play central defence. Other positions are left for us to guess, although we never quite get them all. Buttner should come in for Evra and the likes of Anderson, Cleverley and Nani could sneak in. RVP has that golden boot almost wrapped up, but with the way Bale is going, nothing can be left to chance. Sunderland might just cave in, knowing fully well that they are safe.......at least for another season.

For the great Sir Alex, win no 896 out of 1500 matches contested will be a sweet end to a really majestic coaching career. The sage will want to bow out with a victory and a Fergie time goal by Wayne Rooney will be just the perfect sendoff.

The baggies will form a guard of honour (GOH) for the newly crowned Champions of England. Afterwards, both sets of players will form a GOH for SIR ALEXANDER CHAPMAN FERGUSON. A more than fitting gesture for someone who brought so much success to one club in 26+ years. ADIOS SAF..Nos Vemos!

Ohireime P Eboreime
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