CL: Manchester United vs Barcelona - Preview

After a surprisingly dull first leg affair, the whole football world will be hoping these two sides turn on the style when they go face to face at Old Trafford tonight. With neither side scoring in the first leg, it really is all or nothing for both Sir Alex Ferguson and Frank Rijkaard.


Manchester United have seen both their Premier League and Champions League ambitions hit a rough patch at the worst part of the season. An unusually robust and defensive United grounded out a 0-0 draw in last week's first leg, and followed that up by losing 2-1 to title rivals Chelsea at the weekend. To turn this slump in form around they need their big players to perform. Cristiano Ronaldo will need to show why he's considered the world's best, and put the missed penalty from the first leg firmly behind him. He's gone about it in the right way by saying it was no big deal and he'll score tonight. United also have injury doubts, again over Nemanja Vidic (just like the first leg). Wayne Rooney is the other doubt after taking a knock on his hip twice within in a week. Needing to be at their best offensively and defensively, Ferguson has promised to give both players as much time as possible to prove their fitness.


Barcelona need to salvage a disappointing season in this competition. The title is all but sealed, with Real Madrid needing just three points from a possible twelve to win La Liga. Like United are relying on Ronaldo, Barca will be hoping Lionel Messi can inspire them to the final in Moscow. He was rested at the weekend along with Samuel Eto'o in order for him to be as fresh as possible for tonight's clash. The Spanish side also have an injury doubt over Yaya Toure, who was probably one of the best player's from the last clash between these two sides. Captain Carlos Puyol will return to the side in place of the suspended Rafael Marquez in defence. Rijkaard will know that his side can go through with a score draw, and if they score first it will make a very nervous night for the Old Trafford faithful.

PREDICTION: Manchester United 3-2 Barcelona. I'll stick my neck out and say we're going to see a classic tonight. Didn't I say that last time? Hmmmmm, no I'll stick with that prediction. If we see an early goal I think we will see a truly great game, there's so much at stake for both sides and hopefully every player will play to the best of their abilities. I await the outcome of this tie with baited breath.