Champions League: The Match of the Year!

So much history, so many names, so many titles between them. This could be the match to watch out for in this season of football. Real Madrid and Manchester United, arguably two of the most popular clubs not only in their respective countries but throughout the world. With 44 League titles and 11 Champions League titles between them, this is going be a heck of a battle. With the Red Devils almost clear at the top, they would like to concentrate and become the champions of Europe. But the Whites are wounded, and with La Liga out of their grabs now, they will put all their efforts in the Champions League.

If all the stats and history weren’t enough, both the teams have players who are in red hot goal scoring form. If the Devils have their Robin Van Persie and Wayne Rooney with 18 and 10 goals respectively in EPL, then the Whites have their poster boy Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuaín with 21 and 8 goals in La Liga. Both the teams have not been at their best defensively too. Hence it’s a perfect recipe for a goal-fest.

Another very important factor is the goal keepers. Though the Manchester management has shown a lot of trust in young de Gea, his lack of strength in front of goal is quite evident and Madrid’s strong players like Khedira, Ramos, Pepe, Alonso and Ronaldo coming forward during set plays will certainly create a problem for de Gea. Real Madrid too have problems of their own with their number one and arguably the world’s best keeper Casillas out with injury. They would have to settle for Diego Lopez. Though there is no doubt in his ability as a goal keeper alone, the way he organizes his back four has come in to question in the recent past and with strikers like RVP and Rooney lurking in front of goal, one simple mistake will easily cost a goal.

And last but definitely not the least, Ronaldo’s woes. One of the best strikers in the world (no arguments there) has to go up against his old club where he was loved and adored. He is currently playing for a club where he has publicly claimed he is not happy. No questions that he a professional and will do his best to get Madrid through the Manchester United challenge. The legend that he is, he will be able to give his 100% to Madrid and if he slips, I am sure Rooney and RVP won’t. It’s not only a test of skills but also of character of the great one. Especially if he scores, how will he celebrate? All these questions will be answered on match day.

Does not matter where you are, does not matter if you call it soccer or football, does not matter if you’re a die hard fan or a casual viewer, if you are going to watch one football match this year, MAKE IT THIS ONE!