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Walcott urges Arsenal to secure Champions League football: We want to be playing Barcelona and AC Milan
England international admits the Gunners have had an inconsistent campaign but is hoping to finish on a high and reveals Jack Wilshere should be back soon
It's possible for Chelsea to beat Barcelona over two legs, admits Kalou
The Ivorian winger believes that the Blues are capable of eliminating the Champions League holders as he looks to Jose Mourinho's Inter side from 2010 for inspiration
Aimar: Chelsea's individual quality got them to the semi-finals
The Benfica playmaker feels that the Premier League side's individual class made the difference in the quarter-finals but argued that the Portuguese giants deserved better
Bayern can accomplish anything, says Badstuber
The 23-year-old believes that the Bavarians have no reason to fear Real Madrid on current form, but urged his team-mates to focus on domestic matters in the mean time
Iniesta's goal against Chelsea the basis of Barcelona's success, says Dani Alves
The Brazil international has hailed the importance of the attacking midfielder's strike at Stamford Bridge nearly two years ago, and added that the Blaugrana are not invincible
Pepe: We expect to reach Champions League final
The Portugal international is confident that Los Blancos can make it to the showpiece in Munich in May, but stressed that they are focussing on La Liga for now
Terry suffers rib injury in Chelsea victory over Benfica
Blues manager Roberto Di Matteo hopes to see his captain quickly shake off the knock and insists his side will try to play on their own terms when they face Barcelona
Granero hails Real Madrid's attacking strength
The midfielder has taken time to praise Los Blancos' lethal attacking unit, but he is expecting a tough Champions League semi-final tie against Bayern Munich
Jovanovic proud of APOEL's Champions League campaign
The Serbian coach believes that his players have gained valuable experience from playing against Madrid, while confessing that he is proud of the team's campaign in Europe
Di Maria anticipates 'great' semi-final tie against Bayern Munich
The Argentine winger has set his sights on a victory against the Bavarian giants, while praising the quality of Madrid's attackers
Mata: Barcelona are a great side & they are not just about Messi
Spanish playmaker looking forward to Champions League semi-final with the Catalan giants, but admits his side will be underdogs going into the last four of the competition
Rui Costa hits out at referee following Benfica's loss to Chelsea
The retired midfielder believes that his side were stronger than the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday and lashed out at the match official for some controversial decisions
Lampard: Chelsea have unfinished business with Barcelona
That controversial semi-final defeat to Barcelona three years ago still occupies the mind of the 33-year-old, who concedes the regining champions will be favourites to go through
Kaka: I have confidence in myself again
The 29-year-old playmaker is confident that he is returning to his best and insists that he still has much to give to the team
Benfica's Jorge Jesus: We played against Chelsea and the referee
The Portuguese coach was very critical of the work of the match official and stressed that his side deserved to go through in the competition
Di Matteo not looking further than Wigan as Chelsea seal semi-final date with Barcelona
The interim manager says he is looking no further than the weekend game against the Latics after a victory over Benfica sets up a tie with Pep Guardiola's European champions
Barcelona guaranteed Champions League final place, claims Mourinho
The Portuguese was in mischievous mood as his team progressed to the Champions League semi-final stage, suggesting that the Catalan side are guaranteed a showpiece spot
Ronaldo: Bayern Munich can win the Champions League
The Portuguese attacker believes that the Bavarian club will pose a serious threat to his side and warned that the Germans can go all the way in the tournament
Marseille president Labrune confident of holding on to coach Deschamps
The former France international is constantly being linked with clubs around Europe but his boss is optimistic that he will be able to persuade the World Cup winner to stay put
Ribery lashes out at Marseille fans
The attacker was not happy with the treatment he received upon his return to his old stomping ground, after being whistled and booed for the 78 minutes he was on the field
Cuenca unperturbed by Ibrahimovic outburst after Camp Nou controversy
The Swede suggested that there is a Uefa conspiracy in place to ensure that the Blaugrana, the reigning European champions, make it to the final of this year's competition
Chelsea's Ferreira hails Benfica boss Jorge Jesus as 'one of the most important managers' of his career
The defender played under the tactician at Portuguese club Vitoria de Setubal and has credited the coach with teaching him the "tactical things as a right-back"
Heynckes: Bayern can oust Real Madrid
The FCB coach has admitted that Los Blancos are superior, but is optimistic of springing a surprise as he urged his team to focus on the upcoming Bundesliga games first
Rui Costa hits out at referee following Benfica's loss to Chelsea
The retired midfielder believes that his side were stronger than the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday and lashed out at the match official for some controversial decisions
Apr 5, 2012 12:35:00 AM
By Luis Mira
Benfica's sporting director Rui Costa did not hide his disappointment with the standard of refereeing in Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat against Chelsea.
The Portuguese club disputed the award of the 21st-minute penalty, which gave Chelsea the lead and saw Maxi Pereira earn the first of his two yellow cards for dissent.
After the match, which saw Benfica eliminated at the quarter-final stage 3-1 on aggregate,Jorge Jesus said that his side were "damaged" by the referee, and Costa joined the Portuguese coach in criticising the officials' work.
"We know that in the Champions League some things can be decisive," he told Sky Sport Italia.
"In both games against Chelsea, things were so clear that I cannot help speaking about the referees, even if it is not my style.
"The referee wanted to show yellow cards to Benfica's players so badly, that he booked the wrong player.
"If we want a Champions League which is open to all clubs, this should be reflected on the pitch."
Costa went on to praise Benfica's display, saying: "We could have defeated Chelsea.
"Roberto Di Matteo took a defensive approach, that is all. It looked like we had 11 men and they had 10."
Benfica's Jorge Jesus: We played against Chelsea and the referee
The Portuguese coach was very critical of the work of the match official and stressed that his side deserved to go through in the competition
Apr 4, 2012 11:20:00 PM
By Luis Mira
Benfica coach Jorge Jesus was left angry at the refereeing decisions in Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat at Chelsea.
The Portuguese giants found themselves on the back foot after 21 minutes following a Frank Lampard penalty before they were reduced to 10 men with one hour left to play after Maxi Pereira was given his marching orders.
"I want to congratulate my players because they played against Chelsea and the referee," Jesus told Sport TV after the game.
"We were defeated by details which have nothing to do with either club.
"Maxi Pereira's red card and the penalty make no sense. We do not understand how decisions like these are made in the quarter-finals.
"We were clearly damaged by the referee."
After Chelsea's 1-0 victory in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at the Estadio da Luz, Jesus had said that Benfica had played better than the Blues, and the Portuguese coach had the exact same opinion about the match at Stamford Bridge.
"We were better than Chelsea in Lisbon and here. We did not lose this game because Chelsea were better, because they were not," Jesus added.
"Even with 10 men, we were always the better team. We always believed we could turn the score around.
"We had little time to score the second goal, but we always believed we could do it. We were surprised in the last minutes because of the risks we needed to take."
Chelsea will now meet Barcelona in the semi-finals, and Jesus has no doubt that the Catalan club will reach the tournament decider.
"We have defeated better sides than Chelsea in the Champions League," the 57-year-old said.
"When you reach the quarter-finals, anything is possible, but Chelsea will have no chance against Barcelona.
"We are the ones who deserved to play against Barca."
In Pictures: The WAGs who helped Bayern Munich conquer Marseille
The German giants dominated both legs of their Champions League quarter-final clash with Didier Deschamps' side to set up a probable semi against Spanish giants Real Madrid
Apr 4, 2012 4:01:00 PM
We say "helped" - what we really mean is: "stared at their football husbands from afar and gave a little 'yippee' when they trounced Marseille". Aside from such semantics, what we're really interested in today is shamelessly looking at the WAGs on the arms of Bayern's stars.
Aside from Sarah Brandner, girlfriend of Bastian Schweinsteiger, we've never met the other three so this is about as exciting as it gets at Extra Time.
Leading the line is Mario Gomez's girlfriend Silvia (pictured with Sarah Brandner in the above picture). The German target man has hit the back of the net a mere 37 times this campaign - slightly concerning for any defenders set to face him in Euro 2012 ...
Making her arrival and looking suitably jolly is Kathrin Gilch, girlfriend of Bayern and Germany keeper Manuel Neuer.
As you can see she's adopted some lederhosen for this particular celebration - Oktoberfest perhaps?
Now, you may not be able to tell, but the following photo is of Sarah Brandner, Schweini's girlfriend.
To clarify, here's one of her face too (left):
The final offering is via Philipp Lahm and his wife Claudia Schattenberg. Firstly, that's a brilliant name. Secondly she's rather nice isn't she? But thirdly, what are Lahm's eyebrows made of!?
Provided Real Madrid avoid the greatest shock in the history of the game and progress to the Champions League semi-finals, expect an almighty clash between the two sets of WAGs. Now that is something we're certainly looking forward to!
Only Real Madrid can compete against Barcelona, says Ancelotti
The Italian trainer believes that Milan are not at the same level as the Catalan giants, but says that the Rossoneri are favourites ahead of Juventus to win the Scudetto
Ronaldo: Champions League final will be between Real Madrid & Barcelona
The 35-year-old former Brazil forward is adamant that Spain's top two clubs will pit it out in the finale of European football's elite competition and also praised Jose Mourinho
Chelsea will target Barcelona's defensive frailties, says Kalou
The Ivory Coast international believes Pep Guardiola's reigning European champions are lacking confidence at the back but acknowledges Lionel Messi is the best player in the world
Hoeness: Real Madrid are a great club, but so are Bayern Munich
As he looks forward to a Champions League semi-final run-in with the Spanish giants, the president feels his side are on equal footing
Kroos: Real Madrid tie a good opportunity for Bayern to prove their worth
The 22-year-old midfielder is aware of the quality of Madrid's attackers, but says this is the chance for the club to show that they are one of the finest in Europe
Cech dreaming of Champions League glory with Chelsea
Czech international believes club can progress past ‘the world’s best football club’ Barcelona in the semi-finals and go on to win the trophy in the Allianz Arena in May
Bayern Munich are not quite on par with Real Madrid, says Schuster
The 52-year-old thinks that Jose Mourinho's side are better than their German counterparts, and has singled out Xabi Alonso as the main threat to the Bavarians
Bayern Munich are not quite on par with Real Madrid, says Schuster
The 52-year-old thinks that Jose Mourinho's side are better than their German counterparts, and has singled out Xabi Alonso as the main threat to the Bavarians
Apr 5, 2012 5:10:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
Bernd Schuster believes that Real Madrid have the edge over Bayern Munich defensively, but the two sides are almost evenly matched in all other departments.
The two European giants set up a mouth-watering Champions League semi-final tie after the Spanish side disposed of APOEL and their German counterparts saw off Marseille.
Schuster, who coached Los Blancos in 2007-08 thinks that his former employers will approach the tie as favourites, due to their superiority at the back, despite the Bavarians having conceded fewer goals in the knockout stage thus far.
"Bayern are not quite on par with Real Madrid," the 52-year-old told Kicker. "Especially in the area of central defence.
"Sergio Ramos and Pepe hold a huge advantage over [Jerome] Boateng and [Holger] Badstuber. So I have my doubts as to whether Bayern can compete."
However, Schuster went on to say that the two sides are level in terms of quality both in attack, and in goal.
"Here you have Cristiano Ronaldo [Angel] Di Maria, [Karim] Benzema, [Mesut] Ozil and Kaka; there you have [Arjen] Robben, [Franck] Ribery, [Thomas] Muller, [Toni] Kroos and [Bastian] Schweinsteiger.
"In midfield and attack, I see no difference in quality. The goalkeepers are the same. [Iker] Casillas and [Manuel] Neuer are both world class."
However, Schuster singled out Xabi Alonso from the Real Madrid ranks, and said that Jupp Heynckes' side must keep an eye on the Spaniard.
"The key will be whether Bayern can shut down Xabi Alonso, he is the connection [between defence and attack]. He opens up the game, he plays the passes forward.
"That's a role for Toni Kroos. This is more important than defending against Ozil."
Bayern Munich meet Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena on April 17, before the return fixture in the Spanish capital eight days later.
Only Real Madrid can compete against Barcelona, says Ancelotti
The Italian trainer believes that Milan are not at the same level as the Catalan giants, but says that the Rossoneri are favourites ahead of Juventus to win the Scudetto
Apr 6, 2012 7:51:00 AM
By Luis Mira
Paris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed AC Milan's exit from this season's Champions League at the hands of Barcelona in the quarter-final stage.
The Rossoneri crashed out of the continental tournament after a 3-1 aggregate defeat to Barca, with the Serie A champions highly critical of the standard of match officiating in the return leg at Camp Nou.
Ancelotti, who coached Milan between 2001 and 2009, has come out in defence of his former club and conceded that the Blaugrana were at a superior level.
"Milan did everything they could against the strongest side in the world," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"Nowadays, only Real Madrid can compete against the Catalans."
The 52-year-old then shared his opinion on the Scudetto race, saying that he trusts Milan's chances to fend off the threat of Juventus and retain their Serie A crown.
"Being two points clear will do, but Milan will have to win all of their remaining games," Ancelotti noted.
"In the end, I think that the Rossoneri will win."
Paris Saint-Germain have been struggling to confirm their superiority in Ligue 1 as they currently share the top of the table with Montpellier, who have a game in hand, and Ancelotti admitted that he will look to fine-tune his squad in the summer.
"The squad will be strengthened, but there will not be a revolution," the Italian coach explained.
"We will sign three or four players, but I want PSG to have a French soul because a sense of belonging can make a difference nowadays."
'Chelsea can beat Barcelona' - Mata The Stamford Bridge club may be unfancied but the Spanish playmaker insists the reigning champions are not invincible and hopes his side can reach the Champions League fin
Parker: Champions League qualification still in Tottenham's hands
The 31-year-old is adamant his side must concentrate on picking up points in their final six Premier League games and not be distracted by the exploits of their rivals
Barcelona are hot favourites for the Champions League, says Karanka
Jose Mourinho's right-hand man has declared that he thinks the Blaugrana are the ones to beat in Europe's premier football competition despite their previous wobble in form
Platini considering scrapping Europa League in favour of extending Champions League - report
The 56-year-old is understood to be planning on widening Europe's premier club competition to 64 teams, but at the cost of the secondary tournament, which could be defunct by 2016
When Iniesta strikes, his teams never lose: The World Cup hero's amazing scoring record for Barcelona & Spain
The midfielder has scored key goals that have lifted a nation and broken opposition hearts, while his record when finding the net makes him a true talisman for club and country
Wiese: I expect to play Champions League football next season
The 30-year-old goalkeeper has already confirmed he will depart the Weserstadion at the end of the current campaign and has now stated he hopes to play in the Champions League
Raul hoping for Real Madrid to meet Barcelona in the Champions League final
The 34-year-old forward has spoken of his delight in having five Spanish teams still in European competition, and is hoping Los Blancos meet the Catalans in the Munich showpiece
Barcelona are much better than Chelsea, says Zenden
The Dutchman believes that the Primera Division giants have more quality than the Blues, and is hoping for an all-Spanish final in Munich
Guardiola: I can only thank Mourinho for the confidence he has in Barcelona
The former Spain midfielder has responded to the Real Madrid boss' recent comments that the Catalans are a certainty to make the Champions League final
'I still get abuse from Chelsea fans for the 2009 semi-final against Barcelona,' says referee Tom Henning Ovrebo
The official remains unpopular with the Blues after refusing to award a penalty in their controversial defeat, and admits looking back he "would have done things differently"
'I still get abuse from Chelsea fans for the 2009 semi-final against Barcelona,' says referee Tom Henning Ovrebo
The official remains unpopular with the Blues after refusing to award a penalty in their controversial defeat, and admits looking back he "would have done things differently"
Apr 6, 2012 2:50:00 PM
By Tom McKeown
Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo has admitted he is still the subject of abuse from Chelsea fans after he took charge of their controversial Champions League semi-final defeat to Barcelona in 2009.
The official waved away four penalty appeals for the Blues during the second leg at Stamford Bridge, which saw Pep Guardiola’s side go through on away goals after Andres Iniesta’s late strike earned them a 1-1 draw.
But the big talking point was Ovrebo’s failure to award a penalty despite several strong claims, and the 45-year-old says he is still facing the wrath of Blues fans three years later.
“The abuse has lasted and I get about three to four emails a year,” he told The Guardian.
“It is not nice but nothing too serious, either. I don’t let it upset me or my family. They do not know much about it as I do not show them the emails.
Ovrebo also admitted that whilst he does harbour regrets about that match, he has learnt plenty from the experience.
"Looking back there are certainly things I would have done differently. I learnt a lot from that experience," he added.
"But all referees will tell you that they have good and bad matches, moments they do well and moments they do not so well, that is all part of the job.
“I cannot keep regrets about this one match. My life has to move on from this.”
Chelsea meet Barcelona later this month, again in the semi-final, and Ovrebo is sure he will be tuning in to see how the Blues fare.
"Despite all that happened I still love watching the Champions League,” he said.
“Especially the big matches that come later on in the tournament, and this is definitely a big match."
Platini considering scrapping Europa League in favour of extending Champions League - report
The 56-year-old is understood to be planning on widening Europe's premier club competition to 64 teams, but at the cost of the secondary tournament, which could be defunct by 2016
Apr 7, 2012 12:25:00 PM
Uefa president Michel Platini has contemplated the idea of scrapping the Europa League in favour of extending the Champions League to 64 teams in four years time, according to Bild.
In what would be the biggest shake-up in Europe's club competitions since the rebranding of the European Cup to its current form in 1992, the former France midfielder is reportedly planning on creating a single continental tournament.
Currently, the secondary competition generates far lower revenue for clubs than is produced by the Champions League, a problem Platini is increasingly concerned about, while it has been a target for much criticism since its evolution from the Uefa Cup in 2009.
To address this, Platini wants to increase the number of teams in the Champions League group stage to 64 teams in 2016, effectively absorbing most of the clubs from the Europa League.
Renowned European nations such as Spain, England and Germany would then be given six league berths each in their respective top-flight divisions.
In addition, the reform would ensure more scope would be given to lesser countries, including those from the likes of Latvia, Belarus and Slovakia.
'Chelsea must play their best side against Tottenham and Barcelona' - David Luiz
The Brazilian international believes the Blues' players must push hard until the end of the season if they want success despite congested schedule over the Easter period
Barcelona are 'definitely beatable', says Chelsea's Essien
After numerous meetings in recent years, the Ghanaian powerhouse is confident that the Blaugrana can be defeated when the two sides meet in the Champions League semi-final
Ashley Cole could miss crucial Chelsea games - report
The Blues maybe without the England international for FA Cup semi-final clash against Tottenham on Sunday as well as Champions League match with Barcelona
Guardiola downplays favourites tag
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has played down claims by Real Madrid counterpart Jose Mourinho that the Catalan club were "super-favourites" to beat Chelsea.
Schuster: Real too strong for Bayern
Former Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster believes that Bayern Munich will not be able to hold their own against an impressive Real side in the Champions League semi-finals.
Kalou knows of Barca "weakness" Salomon Kalou has vowed to answer those dismissing Chelsea's chances of beating Barcelona, insisting he has already spotted weaknesses in their rearguard.
The Catalan giants will wear their alternate kit when they travel to London after contacting Uefa in regards to a number of possible jersey clashes with the blue of Chelsea
Apr 10, 2012 11:25:00 AM
By Tom Webber
Barcelona will line-up against Chelsea for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final in their all black kit.
Due to the similarities between the reigning champions current crop of jerseys and the blue of Chelsea, the Catalan club sought the guidance of Uefa in order to avoid a colour clash, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Barca had proposed sporting either the pink or yellow jerseys from previous years; the latter of which was worn in 2008/09 when Andres Iniesta's late winner at Stamford Bridge booked the Blaugrana a spot in the final.
However, the European football governing body told the club that their black kit will be sufficient to provide a noticeable difference between the two sides.
Chelsea welcome Pep Guardiola's men to London on Wednesday April 18.
Branca: I don't think Inter will qualify for the Champions League
The former striker has admitted that the Nerazzurri will struggle to qualify for Europe's most elite football competition for the 2012-13 campaign
Wenger predicts a Real Madrid v Barcelona Champions League final
The Frenchman believes the Clasico rivals will overcome their tricky semi-final ties to come face-to-face in the showpiece event in Munich
Bayern coach Heynckes ready for 'special tie' against Real Madrid in Champions League
The Bundesliga giants will go head-to-head with Jose Mourinho's men in the last four of Europe's top club tournament, and the former Los Blancos boss is looking forward to it
Maradona: Bayern Munich will beat Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals
The Argentine legend has stated that the Bundesliga outfit are a well-run club, and fancies Jupp Heynckes' men to defeat the Spanish giants over two legs
Guardiola: One mistake and we can say goodbye to La Liga and Champions League The Blaugrana boss has acknowledged that the Catalans cannot afford to make a single slip-up between now and the end of the season, while also revealing Eric Abidal is on the mend
Liverpool's ruthless owners vow to have one more crack at gatecrashing Champions League elite FSG have regrets about spending £300 million on a once-dominant club but the talk is of one more season to re-establish the club in Europe's elite
Scolari 90% certain Barcelona will beat Chelsea The former Blues boss does not believe that the Premier League outfit have much chance of defeating a side he believes could yet end up reclaiming their Liga crown
Bayern will beat Real Madrid and meet Barcelona in Champions League final, says Phil Taylor The darts legend praised Toni Kroos and asserted that the Bavarians will pip the Spanish giants in the semi-finals and face the current holders in Europe's top club tournament
Barcelona will knock Chelsea out of Champions League, says Okunowo
The Blaugrana scraped by the Blues in 2009 in controversial circumstances but the Nigerian believes that Pep Guardiola's men will have it a little easier this time around
The former Blues boss does not believe that the Premier League outfit have much chance of defeating a side he believes could yet end up reclaiming their Liga crown
Apr 11, 2012 5:21:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Luiz Felipe Scolari believes that Barcelona will almost certainly progress to the final of this year's Champions League at the expense of his former club Chelsea.
The two sides will meet in the first leg of their semi-final clash at Stamford Bridge next week, before colliding again at Camp Nou on April 24.
The Blues were denied a place in the 2009 tournament decider by a last-minute goal from Andres Iniesta, but Scolari is expecting Barca to breeze past the English outfit this time around.
"Barcelona has a 90 per cent chance in the Champions League tie against Chelsea," the Brazilian told COM Radio. "Barcelona are the favourites. But then the favourites still have to win on the field."
Scolari, though, feels that the other semi-final showdown, between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, is almost too close to call.
"The Madrid-Bayern tie is very even," the World Cup-winning coach mused. "I think the game in Munich will decide who gets knocked out.
"If Madrid get a good result, they will be in the final. If Bayern wins by two goals, it will be difficult for Madrid."
Turning his attention to the increasingly fascinating battle between Barca and Madrid for the Liga title, Scolari opined that the momentum has now swung in favour of the Blaugrana, who have closed to within a point of Los Blancos over the past month.
"The 10-point advantage that has now been cut by Barcelona is becoming an emotional problem for the players of Madrid," he said.
"I think the mental side of things is changing in favour of Barcelona and they now have the conditions to be champions.
"If Barcelona beat Madrid [in the Clasico later this month], they have a good chance of being crowned champions.
"But if Madrid win or draw, they will go on to win the title."
Scolari, who led Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002, is currently in charge of Palmeiras.
Mascherano: We should focus on Chelsea, not Real Madrid
The former Liverpool midfielder has insisted that the Catalans should not look too far ahead, and focus on their upcoming Champions League encounter
Marcelo: Real Madrid are favourites in every championship and in every game
The Brazil international feels that Los Blancos are the team to beat in every competition they play in, and is full of praise for his side's attacking potency
Messi: Chelsea match will be more difficult than Levante
The Argentine attacker has stressed that the upcoming Champions League match will be even more difficult than Saturday's game, and added that it's all about the team's success
Real Madrid are slight favourites against Bayern Munich, says Schuster
The German coach expects Madrid to go through in the competition, but gave the Bavarian giants the recipe to stop the Spaniards' attacking threat
Schweinsteiger: Real Madrid clash will be all or nothing for Bayern
The Germany international has underlined the importance of Tuesday's Champions League encounter, and felt the Bavarians deserved better against Mainz
Howard Webb appointed for Bayern Munich's Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid
The governing body for European football has announced that the English referee will officiate Tuesday's mouth-wathering clash in Munich
Apr 15, 2012 1:50:00 PM
By Luis Mira
Uefa has announced that Howard Webb will take charge of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena.
The English referee, 40, is one of the top officials in activity, having officiated the finals of both the Champions League and the World Cup in 2010.
He has overseen 42 matches in 2011-12, including four in the Champions League, but none of them involving either Madrid or Bayern.
Uefa has not yet announced the name of the referee for the other semi final, between Chelsea and Barcelona, at Stamford Bridge, on Wednesday.
The second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu is scheduled for April 25.
New TV contract will help Bundesliga teams compete in Champions League, says Bayern CEO Rummenigge
Following an agreement for an increase in pay-out to clubs in Germany, the chairman hailed the deal as a major financial boost that will see them improve in European competition
Hitzfeld: Current Bayern team conjures memories of 2001 Champions League winners
The experienced trainer believes Jupp Heynckes' current side share similar traits to his successful class of 2000-01 and is confident the Bavarians can lift two trophies this term
Champions League exit against Barcelona still hurts, says Ballack
The former Chelsea star has admitted that the shock elimination in 2009 still haunts him, and added that the Blues would have won the competition had they made the final
Hoeness: I turned down Real Madrid offer in 1974
The Bayern president has revealed that he had the chance to join Los Blancos as a player in the 70s, but eventually opted to stay at FCB instead as he was too young
Makaay: Bayern can really hurt Real Madrid
The scorer of the fastest goal in Europe's elite tournament insisted that the Bavarian giants have what it takes to cause the La Liga leaders difficulties
Heynckes: Real Madrid is a difficult place to work
The German coach has stressed that Tuesday's Champions League encounter is not about personal revenge, and added that it's not easy to coach at the Santiago Bernabeu side
Bayern have the edge on Real Madrid psychologically, says Strunz
The ex-Germany international believes the tie will be close, but feels FCB have the edge, and has opined that his former club will have to focus on shutting down Xabi Alonso
Masters of minnows? Bayern match gives Real Madrid the chance to show they are not just flat-track bullies
The Spanish capital club have to prove against the Bavarians that they are one of the top sides in Europe after strolling through to the semi-finals of the competition
Drogba: Chelsea are ready for Barcelona test
Ivorian striker targets unexpected victory ahead of the first leg of the Blues' semi-final against Pep Guardiola's reigning champions on Wednesday night at Stamford Bridge
Dani Alves: Chelsea did not reach 2009 Champions League final because of fear
The Barcelona right-back feels that the English giants only had themselves to blame for their semi-final exit in Europe's elite club competition three years ago
Ronaldo: It hurts as a Madridista but Barcelona are one of the best teams I've ever seen
The former Brazil international spent a season at Camp Nou but expressed his affection for Los Blancos following his five-year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu
Bayern president Rummenigge: Real Madrid will be a tough nut to crack
The former West Germany international has paid tribute to Los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho for turning a collection of individuals into a "great team"
Chelsea clash good preparation for Clasico, claims Zubizarreta
The Blaugrana official has hinted that Saturday's must-win La Liga encounter with Real Madrid at Camp Nou ranks above their trip to London in terms of importance
Mata: Beating Barcelona will be difficult but not impossible for Chelsea
The Spaniard believes that experience will have a big part to play in Wednesday's fixture, with the Blaugrana struggling at Stamford Bridge in recent years
Sergio Ramos urges Real Madrid to focus on 'world-class' Bayern and not Barcelona
Jose Mourinho's men are within touching distance of their 32nd La Liga title, but the Spain international insists that Los Blancos must concentrate on that task at hand
Drogba: I just want to win trophies with Chelsea
The Blues head into their Champions League semi-final against Barcelona as underdogs but, after an upturn in form, the Ivorian believes that his side have a "50-50" chance
Mourinho ironically labels Real Madrid 'underdogs' against Bayern
The Portuguese believes that Los Blancos' poor record against the Bavarians is 'meaningless' and laughed off the suggestion that his players could be intimidated by the atmosphere
Iniesta: Special goal at Stamford Bridge is in the past & will not help us beat Chelsea
The Spanish playmaker says that his side will not settle for a draw against the Blues in London but insists that they are not taking the English side lightly
Lampard: Chelsea must repeat Tottenham performance against Barcelona
The Blues ran out 5-1 winners in their FA Cup semi-final against Spurs on Sunday and must now take that form into their meeting with the Champions League holders
Del Bosque not worried about potential Barcelona v Real Madrid Champions League final
The 61-year-old insists that he does not fear the repercussions of a continental final between the two clubs ahead of Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine
Heynckes: Real Madrid have a lot of respect for Bayern
The 66-year-old coach believes that Los Blancos will not underestimate his side and labelled Jose Mourinho as one of the greatest coaches in the game
Bayern must defend as a team against Cristiano Ronaldo, says Lahm
The defender feels that a collective responsibility will be needed to stop the Portuguese attacker, and he also hailed Arjen Robben's class despite recent criticism
Barcelona have redefined football with their new ideas, says Gary Neville
The former Manchester United defender has nothing but praise for the Champions League holders, and feels Chelsea have little chance of beating the Catalans
Robben: Bayern have to be at 120 per cent to eliminate Real Madrid
The Dutchman has stated his belief that the Bavarians face a tough task to beat the Liga leaders in, and has made it clear that he is only thinking about reaching the final
Heynckes: Bayern are one of the best three teams in Europe
The German coach believes that the Spanish giants are the only teams with more quality than FCB, and has admitted that the pressure is immense at the Bavarians at the moment
Lampard: Confident Chelsea believe Barcelona are 'beatable'
Midfielder feels that the Blues must show "no fear" against the Spanish giants and also calls for the introduction of goal-line technology after controversial events at Wembley
Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid want 10th Champions League title
The influential midfielder is dreaming of winning the competition for the first time since 2002, and wants to eliminate the Bavarians in their last four encounter
Real Madrid have more respect for Bayern than vice versa, says Metzelder
The Schalke centre-back feels that his former club will be worried by their poor record against the German giants, but hailed the Liga leaders for their strength in depth
Barcelona are in a different dimension to Real Madrid, claims Beckenbauer
Speaking ahead of the Bavarians' European clash with Real Madrid on Tuesday, the legendary defender admits that no-one can match the fluidity of Pep Guardiola's side
Luiz doubtful for Champions League tie with Barcelona after picking up hamstring injury in FA Cup semi-final
Chelsea boss Roberto di Matteo has confirmed the defender will need to be assessed ahead of Wednesday's match at Stamford Bridge following Sunday's 5-1 win over Spurs
'Chelsea can exploit Barcelona weaknesses' - Di Matteo
The Italian insists he has found flaws in the Catalans' approach and is confident his side can progress to their first Champions League final since 2008
Xabi Alonso wary of Bayern Munich attacking threat
The influential midfielder is full of respect for the Bundesliga giants' forwards, but is confident that Los Blancos can get a positive result at the Allianz Arena
Champions League preview: Bayern Munich v Real Madrid
16 April 2012
Bayern Munich play host to Real Madrid at Allianz Arena on Tuesday in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.The German giants will be hoping to bounce back from a couple of disappointing domestic results in the tie, with a 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund and a 0-0 stalemate with Mainz seeing them drop eight points behind leaders Dortmund in the Bundesliga.
But with quality across every line, it would be a brave man who would bet against Jupp Heynckes' side.Players such as Mario Gomez, Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben will keep Real's defence on their toes, while Bastian Schweinsteiger is approaching full fitness again after a long lay-off with a shoulder injury.
Jerome Boateng adds class at the back and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is one of the world's best, but Heynckes will be disappointed to see influential midfielder David Alaba miss the match after he picked up a booking in their quarter-final second leg against Marseille.
The Germans will have to be at their absolute peak to overcome a Real Madrid side that is unbeaten since a January 18 loss against Barcelona - a run of 20 matches in all competitions.Jose Mourinho's side's strength is their attack, with Cristiano Ronaldo sure to be a headache for the Germans after scoring 53 goals in all competitions this season.
On Saturday, Real equalled the all-time La Liga scoring record of 107 goals in a single season - held by John Toshack's Real squad of 1989/90 - in their 3-1 win over Sporting Gijon.Ronaldo has been well supported by Frenchman Karim Benzema (29 goals, 14 assists) and Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain is another who has been instrumental in Real's resurgence this season.
Brazilian playmaker Kaka has enjoyed a sensational return to top form, and Mourinho's squad will be boosted for the trip to Germany by the return of midfielder Xabi Alonso from suspension.The match will create some mixed emotions for Heynckes, who steered Real to the 1997/98 Champions League trophy by beating Juventus 1-0 in Amsterdam.
Chelsea and Barcelona renew hostilities when they meet in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday. English Premier League giants Chelsea will be looking for revenge after Andres Iniesta's late goal in their 2008/09 semi-final tie put Barca into the final, which they won 2-0 against Manchester United.
Chelsea caretaker boss Roberto Di Matteo's team, who booked their place in the FA Cup final on Sunday, welcome Barca to Stamford Bridge for the first leg. In a blow to Chelsea, centre-back David Luiz could miss the match after being carried off the field with a hamstring injury in Sunday's 5-1 victory over Tottenham.
Di Matteo believes Barca have weaknesses his side can exploit, and said the focus would be on each of the European champions' players, not just the in-form Lionel Messi. "It's not just about stopping a single player because obviously they have so many players that can hurt you," he said."It has to be a team tactic, a team strategy, to be able to limit their threat."
Di Matteo, who took over from Andre Villas-Boas in March, has helped inspire Chelsea's revival, with the Italian overseeing nine wins, two draws and just one loss in his time in charge.Attacker Juan Mata will play a key role for Chelsea, with the Spaniard's ability to support striker Didier Drogba, as well as the Chelsea midfield, crucial. Messi has scored 20 goals in his last 11 matches, an incredible run that has kept Barca in the hunt for the La Liga title.
The clash against Chelsea marks the start of a crucial week for Pep Guardiola's side, who meet Real Madrid in the El Clasico on Saturday.Barca are unbeaten in 15 matches in all competitions, although they needed a fortuitous penalty to record a 2-1 win at Levante on Saturday. Iniesta, Dani Alves and Gerard Pique all started on the bench in the win, and the trio could all fit into the starting 11 against Chelsea.
Guardiola's team have only kept one clean sheet in their last four matches, an encouraging sign for Chelsea.Di Matteo's side need a strong result at home if they are to upset a high-flying Barcelona in the tie and book a place in the final.
