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Holding Midfield: Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich)
Javi Martinez put in brilliant performances in both legs by playing at the base of the midfield and helped Bayern retain their shape. The Spaniard was an imposing player in the middle of the pitch and quietly put in a great performance while the forward players hogged all the limelight. Martinez helped create space for his fellow midfielders by creating space with his accurate passing.
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He made several crucial interceptions and blocks which prevented Sevilla from creating too many goal scoring opportunities. More such displays might help him win back a place in the Spanish national team.
Centre Midfield: James Milner (Liverpool)
James Milner is probably Liverpool's most underrated player. He made his former club Manchester City realize that it was a mistake letting him leave on a free.
In the first leg, he contributed immensely to both the defense and attack. His long pass set up the counter attack for the first goal and he provided an excellent assist for Chamberlain's second goal. Surprisingly, James Milner has provided the most assists in the competition this season with 7.
He was also excellent out of possession as Henderson and he didn't allow the City midfielders any time to breathe, constantly making challenges and flying into tackles.
He led the side in Henderson's absence in the second leg away from home and provided an experienced head at a time where the Reds found themselves under pressure down 1-0 early on. He made numerous blocks, interceptions and clearances to ensure that the defense wasn't troubled as much as was it was expected.
Centre Midfield: Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)
Toni Kroos once again demonstrated his class over the two legs. He completely ran the show for Madrid in the first leg by taking up excellent positions and playing some brilliant passes with his unique vision. He was unlucky not to get on to the scoresheet as his thunderous strike struck the bar.
In the second leg, with Madrid under immense pressure, the German was the calm head despite the home side losing at the Bernabeu. His composure helped slow the game down at numerous times and it was his exquisite pass that allowed Ronaldo to knock down to Vazques, who won the winning penalty.
