MANCHESTER UNITED-REAL MADRID PREVIEW...Fireworks expected at the Theatre of Dreams

                                     

The return leg of the massively anticipated battle between two of the World's most appreciated and successful clubs goes down tonight at the Theatre of Dreams. With the tie in the balance at 1-1, the war is expected to be keenly contested and excellently played out.

Time for WAR...(google images)

Visitors, Real Madrid have been unbelievable in the past week, comprehensively beating fierce Clasico rivals, Barcelona in two consecutive matches. Mourinho would have taken 1 win, 1 loss but his boys had other ideas and he himself was the master strategist. The Portuguese genius took his boys to the Nou Camp seven days ago and returned with a 3-1 defeat of Barcelona, sending them packing out of the Copa Del Rey in the semis and setting up a mouthwatering Capital derby final meeting with Atletico Madrid. He did not end there. Back at the Bernabeu for the League match, Jose rested 7 of the players who made him proud in Catalonia and brought in the likes of Castilla campaigner, Alvaro Morata and co. The soldiers were different, but victory was attained. Five of the regular starters remained on the sidelines with the exception of Angel Di Maria who was suspended for the game. The match ended 2-1 in favour of Real and it condemned the Blaugrana to their second defeat in about 67 hours to their great rivals. The Merengues also became only the 2nd team in the history of football to defeat Barcelona in the space of approximately four days since its formation. The win at Camp Nou was also significant. It was the first time in 10 months that they lost on their home turf, although the last time was also to Madrid in April of last year. In his press conference yesterday, Jose stated that his team would have been just as motivated to come to Manchester and win outright even if they had lost both games v Barcelona. That man.

Premier League leaders, Manchester United welcomed Norwich to Old Trafford on Saturday evening. The result was a battering for the Canaries who were soundly beaten 4-0. The spanking was sweet revenge meted out on a Norwich side that accounted for the red devils last defeat in the EPL till date. Japanese star, Shinji Kagawa came through, scoring a spectacular hat-trick to cap a fine day for Fergie's men. Wayne Rooney also scored a beauty at the end. After leaving Bradley Johnson for dead, he sent a screamer from all of 20 yards to leave the opposition keeper gasping for oxygen. This added to his two assists in the match showed signs that the English superstar is back to form just at the right time with important games coming in thick and fast for the champions elect. Treble dream still alive.

Tonight's encounter has all the makings of a razzle-dazzle affair. The match of ten years ago comes to mind. When a certain Ronaldo da Lima with revenge on his mind, came to conquer Old Trafford with his exceedingly magnificent footballing skills. David Beckham came off the bench that day in an attempt to spark a highly unlikely Manchester United revival. Hard as he toiled (scored two brilliant goals), he couldn't turn the aggregate scoreline in his side's favour, but he made sure the red army won the match 4-3 (eventually lost the tie 6-5 after losing 3-1 in Madrid) and restored some pride. Sir Alex will want none of that drama. He has set up his side in a way that they must look for a win, focus more on its strengths and care less about what Real Madrid and returning Legend, Cristiano Ronaldo will/can do. Being scared of the threat Ronaldo carries will do more harm than good according to the great Scot whose 26+ years at the helm have been nothing short of extraordinary. While defending to its maximum, the team must also attack well and take most if not all of chances created.

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aviero is a familiar name in this parts. The Portuguese living Legend took Manchester by storm when he arrived from Sporting Lisbon in 2003 to replace the equally Legendary David Beckham. After six years and 118 special goals, he left Old Trafford to seek pastures new. Quite rightly, he chose the beautiful city of Madrid to continue his football development. He left Manchester United with fantastic memories, most especially his elevation to the status of best footballer in the World in 2008. Since transferring to Real, he has seen Lionel Messi claim the award four consecutive times and he is not in the least happy about it. His scoring record for the Bernabeu side is incredibly phenomenal. 185 goals in 184 games including 20 hat-tricks explains it all. His goal against his former team three weeks ago was reminiscent of the one he scored for Manchester United v Chelsea in the UCL final five years ago. Fergie told the press after the match that he was critical of Evra at half-time on why he allowed Ronaldo to out jump him for that glorious goal. Well. after watching the replays, he had nothing more to say. CR7's knees were above the Frenchman head when he headed past David de Gea. A repeat might be consequential.

Wayne Rooney disappointed me in the first leg. I wrote about his importance to the MUFC cause and how the match would be decided by him and not RVP as most people felt. He was absent throughout the game and misplaced more passes than ever before. His shambolic display must have to be transformed to one that can cause the Madrid defence all sorts of problems. When he is on fire, his teammates come alive. RVP has to wear his scoring boots tonight . his scuffed shot in the closing minutes of the first leg hurt a lot of people. He usually puts those away.

Sir Alex announced during his presser that Phil Jones won't take part in the game as he hasn't fully recovered from the foot injury that has seen him miss the last two games. I wouldn't buy that. Mourinho decided to match Fergie wit for wit by stating that Iker Casillas is out of contention for the match as well. Mind games. If they both start tonight, It won't be a surprise at least to me. People might ask why Casillas should be thrown into the starting 11 in place of the very impressive Diego Lopez. Simple. San Iker is way more experienced than his Spanish counterpart. Experience counts more than anything in these type of matches.

Cat with 1000 lives...Ageless Giggs.. 'google images'

Ryan Joseph Giggs who started his Manchester United adventure 22 years ago, is set to appear in his 1000th official game as a professional tonight. It may have been better if he did it against Norwich at the weekend and it was against the same team he made his debut and on 2nd March as well which would have been a perfect historic achievement. SAF has explained that he feels the game against the 'whites' is the perfect time for him to reach the incredible milestone. Real Madrid fans rose up in applause of the Welsh Legend when he came on at the Bernabeu. This will be even more rapturous.  Whether he will start or appear as a sub is what Fergie has kept close to his chest.


Predicted Lineups-
Manchester United- DDG, Rafa, Rio, Evans, Evra, Jones, Carrick, Kagawa, Welbeck, Rooney, RVP

Real Madrid- Casillas, Arbeloa/Ramos, Ramos/Pepe, Varane, Coentrao, Alonso, Khedira, Ozil, Di Maria, CR7, Benzema

Ryan Giggs might have to make do with a place on the bench alongside his fellow veteran Paul Scholes who hasn't played for a while due to a knee injury. The ginger Maestro is back and his experience of these kind of games could prove vital. Remember his unstoppable rasping rocket of a shot that was eventually the difference between United and Barcelona in the 2008 semis. He hasn't lost that quality. Once a maestro, always the same. Rafa, Evans and Welbeck return to the starting 11. David de Gea has not conceded a gaol in 447 minutes of Premier League football and his form of late has been excellent. If he can put on a similar show like the one at the Santiago Bernabeu, then MUFC are as good as qualified.

For Mourinho's men, all the star names return after sitting out the Barcelona game. CR7, Ozil, Alonso et al are all set to feature from the start.

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990

Bayern Munich - Borussia Dortmund PREVIEW!

Bayern's NEW 'Mario' and Robben..ready to roar

The Allianz Arena co-Landlords are on a roll at the moment. 2013 has been flawless for them. Every match in all competitions has been won and dominated. Many goals have been scored and only a few conceded. Former player, Lukas Podolski, was the first player to score against the Bavarians in 2013 and that was on the 19th of February. At the weekend, a ruthless Roten army opened fire on Werder Bremen and the result was a 6-1 mauling of Thomas Schaaf's side. Despite resting regulars like Mandzukic, Schweinsteiger, Alaba, Kroos, Van Buyten and Muller, those that came in did a great job. Even Arjen Robben has found himself among the substitutes in the last 2 months. Such is the fantastic quality that the outgoing Jupp Heynckes has at his disposal. Last season's top scorer, Mario Gomez started  the Bremen match and scored 2 goals. The German striker is currently being kept out of the starting 11 by a very impressive Mario Mandzukic who has weighed in with 15 Bundesliga goals amongst others this term.

Rolls Reus and Mario-telepathic

Borussia Dortmund took European football more seriously than the German league this season it seems. Topping a group consisting of Real Madrid, Ajax and Manchester City with an incredible record of 4 wins and 2 draws. Both draws could have been wins if not for Mario Balotelli of MCFC and Ozil of Real Madrid whose last gasp interventions prevented a 100% record for Die Borusen. The League campaign has been regrettable and bad for the defending champions. Winning the last two championships must have taken its toll on the players and the loss of Shinji Kagawa who has been their best player of the last two seasons must have been too hard to take and the vacuum too large to fill. The Japanese has since signed for Manchester United, although he hasn't found his best form since his arrival. Marco Reus, once a foal, left the Borussia Park and Gladbach to pitch tent with the double champions of Germany. The Germany international whose 18 goals propelled Lucien Favre's men to fourth position and a place in the UCL qualifying rounds, decided to seek pastures new. It wasn't a bad decision. His 11 goals and superlative displays in all competitions this season have been crucial to the Dortmund cause. His return to the Park last weekend was not fruitful as his former club put paid to Dortmund's very slim hopes of catching an impeccable Bayern side in the race for the Bundesliga crown. Rolls Reus as he is fondly called, has linked up well with another aspiring great, Mario Gotze. The best show of their link-up play came two weeks ago against Frankfurt. Reus scored a fabulous hat-trick thanks largely to Gotze's sagacity. The draw v Gladbach made it virtually impossible for Dortmund to ever catch a relentless and trophy hungry Bayern Munich who are now 17 points clear of the chasing pack. Sincerely, the Bundesliga should be handed over to them, even though there are still some games remaining to play. Anything other than a Bayern ribbon on the Bundesliga trophy would be melodramatic.

'Okram' wants to leave on a high

Fohlen Legend, Jupp Heynckes is determined to retire in grand style. After painfully losing 3 titles last season (two to tomorrow's opponents), the Bayern Munich managers who is set to be replaced by Pep Gaurdiola next season, has set his sights on another treble winning chance. The Bundesliga title is a wrap it most likely seems. The Pokal was lost to Dortmund in Berlin last season. The performance was shabby and very unlike Bayern. The 5-2 drubbing laid down a marker. FC Hollywood want to make amends. The revenge mission will not be complete this season if Bayern don't put Dortmund in their place. Mainz and Hannover have both been served their respective revenge meals in the German top flight already. Dortmund avoided it in the league clash which ended 1-1. Die Roten however defeated their nearest challengers 2-1 in the German Super cup in August of last year, thanks to goals from Mandzukic and Muller. Lewandowski's goal ended up as only a consolation.

Vivacious and Vibrant..The Klopp of Dortmund

Coach Jurgen Klopp has said in the past that the Bavarians bring out the best in him. His coaching resume has been beefed up in the last couple of months. His impact in Europe has brought him more admirers than critics. He's currently one of the most sought after tacticians in World football. To lure him away from the Signal Iduna would be very difficult, but not impossible. This match will be taken seriously by the man touted to take over from Joachim Loew as manager of die Nationalelf. The Bundesliga race has been lost realistically, so it remains the UCL and the Pokal. He will be hurt that Bayern are set to reclaim the German title, but he'll be more pissed if they also take the Pokal away from his team. The central defensive partnership of Subotic and Hummels have performed extremely well when both are fit. Marcel Schmelzer is arguably the best left back in the German League and the attacking quartet of Kuba-Gotze-Reus-and arrow head, Lewandowski, need no introduction. Compared to the Bayern frontline, they have a strong case.

Dante wall of Munich

Goalkeepers Neuer and Roman Weidenfeller have been in good form since the start of the season. Germany's No 1 goalie has allowed only Poldy and Kev de Bruyne to score past him since the turn of the year. The Bayern rearguard can do no wrong at the moment. the Dante marshaled backline simply hate to concede. While Reus chose Dortmund over Bayern, Uli and KHR consoled themselves with the purchase of towering defender Dante Costa Santos from the Borussia Park for a meager 4.7 million Euros. One of the bargain buys of all time. The Brazilian has started every Bundesliga game so far and it is thanks to him that die Roten have been so brilliant at defending this season. His performances haven't gone unnoticed Internationally. New Selecao manager, Luis Felipe Scolari aka Big Phil called him up for the friendly v England. He went on to earn his 1st cap in the 2-1 loss at the new Wembley to commemorate the English Football Association's 150 years of existence. Klopp has repeatedly backed his goalkeeper for a national call-up which has fallen on deaf ears ever since. Rene Adler of Hamburg who was No1 three years ago until he unfortunately got injured, has been called up instead following fine performances for HSV.

Probable Lineups-
Bayern: Neuer, Lahm, Dante, Van Buyten, Alaba, Martinez, Schweinsteiger, Kroos, Robben, Muller, Mandzukic

Dortmund: Weidenfeller, Piszczek, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer, Gundogan, Kehl/Bender, Blaszczykowski, Gotze, Reus, Lewandowski

The six players rested for Bayern at the weekend are all expected to return for this crunch game. Meanwhile Franck Ribery is suspended after his dismissal in earlier rounds. Arjen Robben has been chosen to replace him. Gomez has to sit on the bench yet again as the other Mario returns to the starting 11.

For Dortmund, The return of Lewandowski is a timely boost for die schwarzgelben. Hummels who limped out of the Gladbach match is fit for this one. Kuba Blaszczykowski is match fit too and will feature. The returning Nuri Sahin hasn't featured as he would have envisaged. The on-loan Real Madrid midfielder who came back to his former home after unhappy spells at the Bernabeu and Anfield, is finding it difficult to break into this talent/quality laden Dortmund team. His thought? 'I should never have left'.

The match between Germany's two biggest clubs will be a great show case of talent and greatness. The two teams that produced more than half of the players called up by the national team management in their recent friendly v France lurk horns tonight. Happy viewing.

Battle Royale

The 'INFLATABLE BOAT' will host this awesome duel

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990

EL COPA CLASICO II...The stage Is set at the Camp Nou!

Los Merengues face a season defining week starting from tonight. Three very important matches today, on Saturday and next week Tuesday are must wins if they stand any chance of claiming at least one title this campaign.. One could argue that the Spanish League is a foregone conclusion given Barcelona's healthy lead over their most illustrious rivals. But as they say, it is never over until it is over. Real Madrid aren't even 2nd on the La Liga table. They sit third and a massive 16 points behind the Catalan giants. El Cholo Simeone's Colchoneros sit 2nd, four points ahead of their city rivals and 12 behind the 21 time La Liga champions.

Today isn't about the League and its twists and turns. It is the Copa Del Rey semi-final second leg and Barcelona hold the slender advantage haven scored an away goal and conceded one at the Bernabeu. With the match evenly poised at 1-1, Real Madrid will fancy their chance of beating the Blaugrana on their soil. Jose Mourinho was at his best when throwing verbal tirades at opponents yesterday citing Bacelona's obsession with referees and their holier than thou attitude in footballing parlance. Jordi Roura was critical of the appointment of Alberto Undiano Mallecano as referee fro the marquee match-up for the mere fact that he presided over Barcelona's loss in the '11 Copa Del Rey final v the Blancos. The stand in coach of the Catalans was of the opinion that Undiano left too many Madrid challenges unattended to in that Mestalla decider. One of the most flimsy excuses you'll get in a long time. The Portuguese tactician who is no stranger to verbal exchanges, wasted no time in giving the League leaders a dress down.  in truth, Barcelona and Real's whitewash of their own failings has become like a broken record. Both clubs who have won so many titles between them, are becoming disgraceful and infuriating to the football public at the same time. The focus on things other than football has become a bore and the Institutions which were once revered have almost become a laughing stock all over the World. Perhaps, both club Presidents can find a way around this shameful representations.

Back to the game. Barcelona warmed up for this spectacle with a come-from-behind 2-1 win v Sevilla at the Nou Camp. After Albert Botia, a former Camp Nou servant, put the Andalusians ahead, Barca had to wait until the second half for David Villa and who else but Messi to score the goals that ensured they took the lead and eventually won the match. Not what they envisaged, but they got out of a slippery situation to record the much needed win which was important after what went down at the San Siro in midweek. Real Madrid had to face relegation threatened Deportivo La Coruna at the Riazor which remains the only ground Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to register a goal since his arrival from Manchester United three and a half ago. Depor were pumped up for this and it was no surprise how they started the match. Veteran master, Juan Carlos Valeron ran a makeshift (if am allowed to call it that) Real Madrid midfield of Modric and Essien ragged. Riki Sanchez Soto (a former Madrid youth/reserve team product) scored a peach of a goal at the other end, although Diego Lopez ought to have done better at his near post. Real Madrid tried all they could to equalize all to no avail. It was in the 2nd half that the 'whites' made their supremacy count. The introduction of Khedira, Ozil and CR7 motivated those left on the pitch and eventually, a Ricky Kaka beauty set the tone for a tense finale. Kaka was again on hand to feed CR7 who unselfishly laid it on for Pipita Higuain to apply the simplest of finishes for not only RM's winner, but his 100th La Liga goal in 179 appearances for the capital club. It was also the Argentine's 10th goal of a disappointing season for himself and the club.

The all important goal that still keeps RM in the tie.

Tonight is another atmosphere entirely. A purely different and more important game situation. If not for anything, for the rivalry that exists between both clubs. The Catalans rested Xavi, Fabregas, Busquets -who won the Catalan footballer of the year, and Pedro Rodriguez who is no stranger to the big occasion and is the only player to score in six different tournaments in one year for one club. Leo Messi is yet to score a Copa Del Rey (CDR) goal for Barca v Madrid and failed to find the net in the 1st leg. He however set Fabregas up for the team's only goal. El Guaje (Villa) will hope for a starting berth after impressing on his return to the starting 11 on Saturday. That looks increasingly unlikely if Barca decide to place Iniesta on the wings as has been done more often than not. The Merengues were without Xabi Alonso the bandleader, Karim Benzema and teenage prodigy, Raphael Varane at the Riazor. All will be expected to return to the starting line-up. Varane was supposedly left out of the Deportivo game due to muscular issues. We all know how these clubs formulate and cook up stories just to hide the real reasons behind some decisions and actions. The youngster from France was instrumental to Madrid's defensive masterclass at the Bernabeu and even scored a beautiful equaliser off an Ozil assist when it was looking like another Barcelona triumph.

TITANIC BATTLE of greats

The two Spanish giants will slug it out tonight for the right to contest the final of the Copa. Apart from CR7 and Messi who are the usual suspects, there are great players like Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Pique, Puyol, Ozil, Alonso, Khedira, Sergio Ramos, Fabregas, Modric, etc who can decide the outcome of a match on their own. One moment of brilliance and boom, game, set and match. The two protagonists any day are RONALDO and MESSI. The best players in the World by any standard have scored an astonishing 86 club goals between them this season. The Portuguese's record of scoring in consecutive Clasicos stopped at 6 (he couldn't score in the 1st leg). Nevertheless, he is the main threat, the biggest and most lethal weapon of REAL MADRID. Set him loose and he hurts you deeply. Mr Messi is just unbelievably phenomenal. The 'flea' has scored 38 league goals in just 25 matches this season including scoring in the last 15 la liga matches. The last time he failed to find the opposition net in league play was November 2012. Since then it has been 15 matches-25 goals. An Ambrosini-esque performance will be needed from Alonso or Khedira or Essien to stop him from causing damage. His 17 Clasico goals is just 1 less than Alfredo Di Stefano's record of 18 set donkey years ago He loves the Nou Camp and is sometimes unstoppable when he gets on the famous pitch.

We anticipate a fantastic game of scintillating football tonight. Anything short of that will be way below our expectations.  Handbags, theatrics and shameful playacting have been common sights in recent Clasicos. The last two have been excellent with little or no controversies, with good football taking centre stage rather than childishness, immaturity and unprofessional behaviour among players and coaches.

Probable Lineups-
BARCELONA- Pinto, Alves, Puyo/Mascherano, Pique, Alba, Busquets, Xavi, Fabregas, Messi, Pedro, Iniesta

REAL MADRID- Lopez, Essien, Ramos/Pepe, Varane, Marcelo/Coentrao, Khedira, Alonso, Modric/Kaka, Ozil, CR7, Benzema.

The widespread rumours have been that Mourinho will employ a false '9' system v Barcelona (Copa), Barcelona (League) and MUFC (UCL). Whatever he does, at least 8 of the players I mentioned must start the game. The 'false nine' idea is as a result of the poor performances and injury worries of his strikers this season. Compared to last season, it has been a very fortuneless campaign for the strikers at Mourinho's disposal. Angel Di Maria stupidly and irrationally sent himself off the other night. Sometimes, he behaves really funny. Two yellow cards in the space of 20 seconds is unacceptable even in amateur football. His moment of absolute insanity has cost him a place in Saturday's League game v Barcelona. What a farmer-'FAZENDEIRO' according to JERALD PETERS. Jose the 'only one' has lost only one of his last five games v Barcelona (winning 2 and drawing the other 2). He has got the MIDAS TOUCH. Tito Vilanova is still in the States for his cancer treatment and will not be expected until at least mid-April. Roura continues in his stead.

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990

LE CLASSIQUE DE FRANCE-PSG aim to put daylight between them and the Phoceens

                                     


Carlo Ancelotti is perhaps the luckiest manager in the World. The squad he has at PSG is one any manager would give an arm for. The array of talent at his disposal is frightening in all ramifications. To add class and elegance to quality and talent, David Beckham otherwise known as 'Golden Balls' joined the pool of talent in January and has been added to the squad to face third placed Marseille tonight at the Parc de Princes.

Paris St Germain have been busy off the field, creating their new logo and club symbol. However, nothing is bigger and more important than tonight's match which could see the Parisiens go eight points clear of their rivals or be pegged back to two. It could also remain five if there's a repeat of the scoreline at the Velodrome. A match that ended 2-2 thanks to braces from Ibrahimovic and Andre Pierre-Gignac.

Sow stopper..The new PSG man still has a lot in his tank

The inclusion of David Beckham has made the World more aware of this very high profile match. The LFP would not have believed that this match would garner so much attention and media hype/coverage. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)--owners of PSG have made it possible for the French ;League to gain global recognition like other top leagues in European football.

Key man..Loves the spotlight

Carlo has hinted that the former England skipper could start the game. The Champions League winning manager is still faced with the Menez-Moura right wing war which is ensuing. Captain Thiago Silva is still sidelined alongside namesake Thiago Motta. Talisman, Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to feature after the controversy surrounding his eligibility to start tonight's game was cleared by the Ligue 1 governing body. Other than these, the League leaders have a fully fit squad to pick from.

Elie Baup's Marseille are heavily depleted. Benoit Cheyrou has pulled out of the squad for tonight's game and the crunch Coupe de France game v the same opponents in midweek. That leaves the new boss short of options in midfield. Dede Ayew's kid brother, Jordan is suspended for the next two games and Morgan Amalfitano is unavailable due to a knee injury he is still carrying. Latest acquisition. Alaixys Romao will be brought in to partner on-loan QPR player, Joey Barton in midfield. Loic Remy has since been sold to the Rs, so that leaves Elie with Gignac as his main striker.

small but mighty..Marseille's biggest threat

Despite PSG's loss at Sochaux last weekend, they still maintain their lead/position in the League. Lyon cut the lead to three points with a fantastic 4-0 demolition of Bordeaux at the Chaban Delmas which is a very difficult place to win. Today's encounter promises to be entertaining and it might take a moment of brilliance from one of the stars of both sides to swing the match. Salvatore Sirigu is no longer unbeatable. Kadir, the exceptional Valbuena and Dede Ayew who benefited from his absence at the ANC can hurt Les Parisiens.



Probable Lineups--
PSG- Sirigu, Jallet, Sakho, Alex, Maxwell, Verratti, Matuidi, Lucas Moura/Beckham/Menez, Pastore, Pocho Lavezzi, Ibrahimovic

MARSEILLE- Mandanda, Fanni, N;koulou, Lucas Mendes, Morel, Barton, Romao, Kadir, Valbuena, A.Ayew, Gignac

Pocho Lavezzi started his PSG career on a shaky foundation but has come in leaps and bounds in the last 2 months, scoring important goals and putting in impressive performances. Most recently in the 2-1 win at Valencia. El Flaco Pastore hasn't really shown the stuff he's truly made of. He's getting there gradually and cannot be overlooked. Lucas Moura who chose France instead of England has been playing some unreal football since he's much publicised arrival. His rift with Menez concerning who stars in the right side of the PSG attack will only make his performance levels soar.  The loss of Thiago Silva to injury hasn't had a negative impact on the League leaders. Former skipper, Mamadou Sakho has been an able deputy recapturing that amazing form that made him one of the most sought after defenders in the World a few years ago. Sylvain Armand and Alex are not exactly lightweight.

N.K must stand tall tonight.

Marseille's Nic N'Koulou is determined to stop Ibracadabra. To do this, he must play the game of his life. His boasts before the first meeting was not taken lightly by Ibra and his brace was the perfect answer to the young defender's rants. He has quality and must show it at the PdP today.

HAPPY SUNDAY

Ohireime P. Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990

DERBY DELLA MADONNINA...Resurgent Milan face Stuttering Inter

It is possibly the greatest crosstown derby in the World. Although the Derby della Mole (Turin derby--Juve v Torino), the Derby della Lanterna (Genoa-Samp) and the Derby della Cupolone (Roma-Lazio) will argue against this. But the Milan derby arguably draws the most crowd outside of Italy. The duel contested by the two Milanese clubs INTER and AC Milan is upon us yet again four months after the first. This time, things have changed drastically. Fortunes have reversed tremendously and Inter are the new Milan somewhat haven  won just 1 of their last 5 Serie A games.They were 13 points ahead of Milan a couple of weeks ago but now find themselves one point and 2 places adrift of their city rivals. Both come into this game in high spirits after their European adventure. Milan claimed the biggest scalp in Modern Football, defying the odds to silence ALMIGHTY BARCELONA 2-0 at the Meazza. Inter were in no mood to dole out gifts either, putting CFR CLUJ to the sword in Romania. 3-0 it ended and 5-0 on aggregate. Milan still have to go to the Nou Camp for the return leg v the Blaugrana.

EL-BA-NI...coined by @carlogarganese

Coach Max Allegri is a man reformed. The former Cagliari tactician has completely revitalised AC Milan in the last two months. Much so that if the Italian League began 15 games ago, the Diavolo would be sitting comfortably on top of the pile and not Juventus. Such as been the phenomenal nature of their upturn in form. The purchase of long time fan and ex-Inter striker Mario Balotelli from Manchester City has coincided with the upsurge. Super Mario's electric start to life as a Rossoneri was never doubted but the speed at which it has kicked off has been breathtaking, The bad boy of World Football has struck four times in 3 games so far. A superb return. His penalty reputation has been undaunted. 18 of 18 is obviously the best conversion rate in the History of Football. Stephan El Shaarawy affectionately called II Faraone has been a revelation to say the least. His 15 Serie A goals have contributed to the explosive form Milan are currently enjoying. Asides penalties, he is the highest goal scorer in the SERIE A. El Matador Cavani has scored 18 including 4 spot-kicks. In the absence of Tonio Nocerino, Nigel de Jong and Mathieu Flamini, Sulley Muntari, Max Ambrosini and Ricco Montolivo have been excellent in the middle of the pack. Ask Xavi, Fabregas and Busquets.  Allegri has also unearthed a new gem in recent weeks. M'baye Niang, the summer capture from Caen has been worthy of praise. His contributions have been noteworthy and telling. When he came on against Barca in midweek, he ran the Barcelona rearguard ragged and tormented Jordi Alba countless times. Although he has yet to register a Serie A goal, his strike v Reggina in the Coppa Italia made him the 2nd youngest scorer in Milan's history at 17 years 350 days (6 days to his 18th birthday). He has had his fair share of disciplinary problems, but his talent is undoubtedly there for all to see. At the back, Philippe Mexes can be erratic and slow to react sometimes. Nevertheless, his partnership with Christian Zapata has flourished in recent games. Should it continue, Milan will go places they never dreamt of when the season started.  Bereft of Ibra, MVB, Pippo Inzaghi, Seedorf, Gattuso, Nesta, etc, the team was expected to struggle and struggle they did at the beginning. There's light at the end of the tunnel and the signs are glaring. Mattia De Sciglio has been plagued by niggling injuries of late, but he is an interesting prospect. Constant has been exceptional at left back and showed it in midweek. Abate flatters to deceive and frustrates at the same time. Milan have to cope with him as he is the best option they have at right back. I personally don't rate him.

Strama..needs a miracle to dodge the axe

Internazionale Milano sacked the likes of Gian Piero Gasperini, Claudio 'the Tinkerman' Ranieri and Rafa Benitez finally handing coaching duties to Primavera coach, Andrea Stramaccioni. He steadied the ship, but couldn't qualify the Nerazzurri for the Champions League and finally had to make do with a place in the Europa League. They have made their mark in the competition, recently qualifying for the Round of 16 to face English side, Spurs. In the Serie A, they were flying at first, firing on all cylinders. All of a sudden, the team collapsed. From Scudetto comtenders, they have regressed rapidly and are fighting to qualify for the Champions League. The players have consistently backed the young and inexperienced manager. Even Owner, the Don Massimo Moratti has been unequivocal in his defence and confidence of the troubled manager. The likes of El Talentino d'Bari Cassano, Rodrigo Palacio, Tomasso Rocchi, Mateo Kovacic, Freddy Guarin (initially on loan from Porto), Walter Gargano (on loan from Napoli), Alvaro Pereira, etc were brought in to bring back the Scudetto to the Gentile. Cassano was lured from City rivals, AC Milan in a swap that included Pazzini going the other way.  Walter 'II Muro' Samuel is not going to feature in the match, Milan will be extremely delighted with that. The 'Wall' has never lost (100%) a game v the red, black and white and scored a 4th minute winner when both sides met in October. Andrea Rannochia is also unavailable which means Chivu will partner Juan Jesus in defence. Not what Inter would have wished for. But wishes are not horses. There's no shortage of greatness in midfield. The superhuman Javier Zanetti, leader of the Interisiti can play there, although he will play either right or left back depending on where Nagatomo is going to start from. Esteban Cambiasso can be relied upon any time. His man marking, hard tackling abilities cannot be questioned. The bald headed Argentine shackled Xavi, Messi and the rest of the Catalan gang three years ago when Inter went on win the Champions League. He has come up big on various occasions in his career and is not afraid of the elite stage. Freddy Guarin has scored some important goals from attacking midfield. His double v Cluj ensured Inter's passage into the next round. He is expected to provide the need spark from that position. Mateo Kovacic was brought in to replace the departed Sneijder (Gala) and Coutinho (Liverpool). The teenager who pinpoints Robert Prosinecki as his idol, is something of a marvel who might go on to become an even better player than the aforementioned Croat. It is in attack that the Nerazzurri have a big problem. El Principe Milito is out for the season with a serious knee injury suffered in the first leg of the Europa League R32 match v Cluj. The Argentine whose two goals won them the UCL in 2010, is Inter's highest goal scorer this season and was central to Inter's defeat of Juventus which effectively ended their 49 match League unbeaten run a few months ago. He'll be sorely missed. Inter have Cassano and Palacio to lead the line nonetheless...none of them is DIEGO MILITO with all due respect.

If the Rossoneri can earn a win against Inter, it will round off one of the most memorable weeks in Berlusconi's 27 year reign as President of the outfit. A win v Barcelona and Inter Milan in the space of four days is the stuff of good dreams. It will do a lot to their mental capability and give them that air of invincibility all great teams need to succeed. This game is of immense importance as it a battle of who gets the 3rd and final Champions League place. Berlusconi, Galliani and Allegri are looking beyond the number three spot anyways. The new objective is to try and win the Championship. Something that was inconceivable at the beginning of the season when the team was almost fretting with relegation staring in its face.

Jokes apart today Cass-Balo

Inter must do well tonight to take away the agony of the 4-1 humbling by the Viola last time out. The Serbia-Montenegro duo of Ljajic-Jovetic scored a brace each to condemn the team to a 4-1 loss and further dent their hopes of finishing among the top 3 at the end of the season. II Aeroplanino's men were in the mood that day. It will be interesting to see how the Curva and Ultras are going to handle the Cssano-Balotelli situation. Both prodigal sons, Cassano left Milan for Inter and Balotelli is now lining up for the arch-rivals of the club who made him the footballer that he is today. Loyalty has been dead and buried in Football long ago. We can't wait for the drama to start and when it does, trust me it will be nerve racking and pulsating. Let's have it.


Probable Lineups--
INTER  MILAN---> Handanovic, Zanetti, Chivu, Juan, Nagatomo, Cambiasso, Kuzmanovic, Kovacic, Guarin, Cassano-Palacio

AC MILAN------> Abbiati, Abate, Mexes, Zapata, Constant, Muntari, Montolivo, Ambrosini, Balotelli, Niang, El Shaarawy.

Some sumptuous battles today.

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990

The ARSENE AGONY...Failure no longer a stranger to the Frenchman.

10-12 years ago, no one, not even the most pessimistic fan would have uttered the phrase 'Time Up Arsene'. The Frenchman affectionately called Le Professeur was having the time of his managerial career winning League titles and domestic cups. The fans were happy, the critics reluctantly applauding. The french contingent of Robert Pires, Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, Sylvain Wiltord, Gael Clichy were ably supported by Sol Campbell, Kolo Toure, Ashley Cole, Gilberto Silva,  Kanu, Dennis Bergkamp, Freddie Ljunberg. All of whom have since moved on. The likes of David Seaman, Lee Dixon, and Tony Adams who were in the twilight of their careers handed over responsibilities to the younger generation with the hope that success would continue even in their absence.

Le Prof..Defiant as ever..But can he withstand the latest onslaught from the  supporters?

Arsene Wenger has won 3 EPL titles, 4 F.A cups (only second to Sir Alex Ferguson on 5), reached the 2000 UEFA Cup Final (L to Galatasaray) and the Champions League final seven years ago (2006)-(L. to Barcelona). All these have since been forgotten because since the 2005 F.A Cup triumph (D. Manchester United), the gunners have come up short in no less than three finals including most recently the League Cup final loss to Birmingham. A match that still lingers in the memory of die hard Arsenal fans. That final in 2011 represented Arsenal's best chance of ending their six year(at that time) long trophy drought which has since been extended to 8 and counting. Arsene is beleaguered and under immense pressure to deliver at least a trophy. This season has passed by him once again.

Beaten by Bradford in the League Cup quarter-finals, defeated at the Emirates by Blackburn in the F.A Cup 5th round and now obliterated by Bayern in the 1st leg of the UCL Round of 16 on their home turf, the fans, majority of them, have seen enough. In their view, it is time for Wenger to call it a day. A breath of fresh air is needed. But the big question is who will SUCCEED ARSENE WENGER? I will get back to that.

UNBEATEN..When the going was good.

Arsenal's well documented implosion has brought the club to its knees in the eyes of everyone connected to football. The decline of one of the World's richest football clubs is a miserable situation for the fans and the manager. However, whether the Board feels the same way is another matter entirely. If not, how can you explain the fact that a club like Arsenal cannot boast of a 30 million pound/Dollar/Euro player? It is preposterous and utterly shocking especially with the healthy financial state the club consistently find themselves in. Wenger has brought more money than he has spent. But success has been hard to come by. The supporters are tired of reading financial reports and listening to the balderdash Mr Gazidis the CEO and other Board members feed them with, What they want is on the pitch success not off it. Whatever happens off the pitch is immaterial if trophies are not resting in the Trophy room. Wenger, Gazidis and co have failed to understand that Football is mostly about what you win and the history you create with what you achieve or have achieved. Yes, the gunners are one of only two English clubs to have gone unbeaten in a League season. The INVINCIBLES they call them (the players who made it possible). But that was 9 years ago. No player in that great team is at the club today. This development has seen Arsenal tagged 'the Market for top European Clubs' or the 'Selling club'. It is disheartening to note that the oldest player at the club is Lucasz Fabianski if my memory serves me correctly. Jack Wilshere was only promoted to the first team in 2008, although he has been at the club since 2001. Look at clubs like Manchester United who still have Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes (retired and re-signed), Wayne Rooney all of who have spent 9 years or more at top level. When Wenger came on board in 1996, it was a two horse race for the EPL title from then till Mourinho was appointed CF manager in 2004. How things have changed. The most distasteful EPL season probably was 07-08 when Arsenal led for much of the campaign until a serious knee injury sustained by Eduardo Da Silva at St Andrews coupled with poor form led to the gunners eventually finishing in 3rd place behind eventual winners, Manchester United and runners-up, Chelsea. Although Arsene has led them to 16 straight UCL campaigns, that is no trophy and the fans are tired of qualifying for Europe every season and faltering at important moments.

The loss of 2 captains (Fabregas and RVP) in two consecutive seasons to Barcelona and more painfully, Manchester United has been crushing to the supporters of this great club. No sane Board would sanction the sale of  its two most important players to major rivals. Kolo Toure, Adebayor, Nasri and Clichy were all sold to Manchester City and 3 of them (excluding Adebayor) won the EPL albeit dramatically, last season. Mathieu Flamini who was sold to Milan has won the Scudetto. Henry won the treble with Barcelona in 2009, Hleb won La Liga, and others have gone on to be successful at other clubs. Robin Van Persie the latest player to be shipped off to an arch-rival is well on his way to claiming his maiden EPL title and leads the scorers chart in the EPL with 19 great goals. The experience has been terrible and tormenting for Arsenal supporters even if some never admit it. The sale of RVP to MUFC can be likened to that of Figo to Real Madrid from Barcelona.

Since the departure of David Dein, Arsene has been knackered and debilitated. He has not hidden the fact that he misses the friendship, trust, advice, and know how of the former Vice Chairman who oversaw the purchases of some of the greatest footballers to ever play for the club. Since he left in 2007, the Frenchman has not been himself and success has been wide off the mark. His replacement, Ivan Gazidis, has been a figure head whose speciality and stock in trade is to sell the best and most valued gunners to rival competitors. The Keith Edelman successor took over the many roles played by Dein but hasn't emulated the former Supremo's exceptional leadership skills and transfer dealings. Le Prof has persistently clamoured for the return of David and his wish should be the Board's command.

Days of Glory...how times have changed

Admittedly, Arsene Wenger has under-performed and under-achieved in the last 8 years. It might interest you to know that the Frenchman has only won trophies in 5 out of the 17 years he has managed Arsenal. The Double ( EPL and F.A Cup) in 98 and 02, The F.A Cup in 03 and 05 and the EPL in 04. 7 trophies in all. Major and super fantastic. Notwithstanding, the bar has been raised by the likes of SAF, Mourinho, Gaurdiola, Mancini, Ancelotti etc, so he must rise up to the challenge beginning with the 2nd leg of the tie v Bayern. Seemingly a lost cause but if we remember how a Thierry Henry inspired Arsenal went to the San Siro and annihilated Inter Milan 5-1 10 years or so ago, then  the 1-3 deficit can be overturned at the Allianz Arena. IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING.

Lastly, I wouldn't sack Wenger. He should be allowed to finish what he started. He has a young squad capable of achieving great things in the near future. Besides, only a few managers in World football have the credentials to replace the Prof. The ones available are currently employed. The likes of Jack Wilshere and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain  can go on to become World beaters. The Leadership and experience of Arteta, Vermaelen and Santi Cazorla could also prove vital in this trying time. Whatever ends this saga and however it plays out, Arsene's place in Arsenal's history is secured. The club's most SUCCESSFUL manager deserves a great deal of patience from the fans. Case rested.

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990  

The Italian Job..How Milan humbled the best team in the World...An Overview

The Guiseppe Meazza was agog with indescribable excitement and pride upon the final whistle of the eagerly awaited clash between hosts AC Milan and runaway La Liga leaders, Barcelona. Not only had the team in red, black and white defeated Barcelona, they also ensured that the blessed trio of Xavi-Iniesta-and Messi were kept absolutely quiet. No member of the Blaugrana starting 11 had a good game. It was the stuff of dreams+greatness for the Rossoneri.

The hugely anticipated match had all the ingredients necessary for a fabulous occasion. Only a Real Madrid-Bayern Munich fixture was more frequent than this one in the history of the Champions League. Between them, 11 Champions League titles have been won.

The Trident couldn't raise the bar last night..Flustered!

Barcelona arrived in Milan full of confidence in their ability to take home a healthy advantage to the Nou Camp in three weeks. A Messi inspired Barcelona won 2-1 at the Estadio Carmenes after trailing Granada 1-0 at the break. The Argentine scored his 36th and 37th goals of the League season in a 2-1 win. The winner a classic 25 yard free-kick which left the goalie gasping for breath. Morale was boosted heading into the Milan game. The Diavolo had other ideas. Coach Massimiliano Allegri has risen from adversity to glory many times this season. From 16th on the Table, the Milanese have climbed up to third miraculously thanks to the Manager's influence and trust. He was at it again last night when he picked the eleven soldiers to do battle with the Catalan army. Abbiati in goal, Zapata-Mexes-Constant-Abate in defence, Muntari-Skipper Ambrosini-and Riccardo Montolivo in midfield, Pazzini-II Faraone Shaarawy and KPB in attack. Super Mario (January acquisition) could not feature because he was cup-tied (played for Man City in the group stages). Barcelona didn't spring too many surprises in their starting line-up. The only doubt was Xavi Hernandez who passed a late fitness test to partner Cesc Fabregas and ever present Sergio Busquets in midfield. Messi-Pedro and Iniesta lined up in attack. Pique-Puyol were chosen to close down Pazzini and company. Alves and Jordi Alba got the nod to play right and left back respectively.

Jubilant Milan..on course for a major scalp

Rare sight of a perplexed Xavi..ha!

The game started at a high intensity and energy levels were at the maximum for both sides. Barcelona played their game from start to finish but it was not enough to lead to success. Christian Abbiati was rarely threatened and the Mexes marshaled defence couldn't have played a better game. KPB and El Shaarawy did excellently well to double up on the duo of Alves and Alba who both had a game to forget. Four time Ballon D'or winner and current World player of the year, Lionel Messi was kept totally quiet from start to finish. Apart from one trademark bursting run down the right in the first half, he was as ineffective as his coach Jordi Roura who lacked ideas when Barcelona needed a plan B. The reason for Messi's incapability for 90 minutes was a certain Ambrosini. Another Massimo, who this time was on the pitch and not the sidelines, followed him everywhere and covered just about every blade of grass on the pitch in a performance reminiscent of Esteban Cambiasso v Barcelona in 2010. Sulley Muntari apart from scoring the vital 2nd goal (via a superb El Shaarawy pass), was dependable all night. He was available when needed and reliable when called upon. Ricco Montolivo didn't do his reputation any harm whatsoever. When he had the ball, he found his teammates easily and calmed the Diavolo with his neat play and timely interceptions.He wasn't afraid to drive forward either and made Xavi look ordinary in the entire duration of the match. It was his ferocious shot that led to the Milan opener via a Zapata unintentional handball which KPB put away brilliantly. Andres Iniesta showed some flashes here and there. His only shot was off target and frustrations grew as the game wore on. Milan's efficiency was the difference between both sides.

Max the Punisher...Tactical genius.

For all Barca's possession (65%), there was absolutely nothing to show for it. Guardiola, Tito and most recently Roura have not devised a new strategy when the main one refuses to yield desired results. The greatness of a side is measured on how flexible and adjustable it can be when fazed with a difficult situation. The man who won the battle of tactics last night was the cool and calm Max Allegri who has been under pressure since August. The task of rebuilding a team after the departures of Gattuso, Ibra, T.Silva, Pippo Inzaghi, Seedorf, Nesta, Zambrotta and most recently Pato was mountainous. He got to it, not particularly well at the beginning which was expected. The end justifies the means they say and if there's any situation that best typifies this saying, then Allegri's perfectly fits the bill. Credit should be given to Vice President Galliani for constantly backing the former Cagliari manager and putting in a word or two for him in his meetings with Owner, Silvio Berlusconi who was given a perfect anniversary present with victory over possibly the greatest club side the World has ever seen. It is 27 years this week since the former Italian Prime Minister took over the reins. He transformed the club into one of the most successful in World Football and yesterday's victory is testament to that fact. The emergence of Stephan El Shaarawy from the shadows of the departed Ibrahimovic, the purchases of M'baye Niang, Bakaye Traore, Ricco Montolivo, Christian Zapata, Bojan Krkic (on loan from Barcelona via Roma), etc were shrewd and very essential to their steady growth. Now the dividends are showing day by day. Now 3rd in the League and on the brink of sending Barcelona packing out of Europe's Premier Club Competition, Allegri's managerial ability has passed the acid test. It remains to be seen how far the resurgence can get them to. It is important to point out that it was the introduction of 18 yr old M'baye Niang which brought the needed bite to the Milan attack when Pazzini ran out of steam. Another brilliant decision by Max Allegri.

Discounting Barcelona will be a big mistake as the tie remains open despite the 2-goal advantage. Nevertheless, if the Diavolo replicate the performance of yesterday night, I can't see the magic the Catalans will employ when they meet in three weeks time. It is make or break fro both teams. Tie remains firmly in the balance because anything can happen in our sport.

Ohireime P Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990