IT'S BACK!!! Champion's League

Ok, let's try this again. Champions League. I was able to catch the games on ESPN. There was lots of talk about how exciting a 0-0 game the Inter v. United game was. I found this match thoroughly disappointing. I suppose it was because there was just so much anticipation built up during the first half by Manchester United. I was definitely expecting to see a fabulous goal-- something with a great build up, flowing passing, capped with a clever finish. It was not to be. Wednesday's game, Chelsea v. Juventus was a decent match. I am amazed that the aging Del Piero continues to provide the spark for Juve. Maybe that is why they couldn't snap up a goal in this game. I thought the Chelsea defense looked a little disorganized at times, however, Cech (apart from a second half flub) looks more confident in goal-- I guess the new manager provides a confidence infusion for the entire squad.

Now on to the predictions:

-Manchester United v. Inter Milan (2-0): Inter just don't look like scoring, and United seem to be indestructible at Old Trafford.
-Barcelona v. Lyon (3-1): Lyon in France are a different squad than Lyon away from France. Valdes is certainly a liability for Barca, but it won't matter if their offense starts clicking like it can.
-Porto v. Atletico Madrid (1-1): Porto did themselves a huge favor by snapping up two away goals. I'd expect their play at the back to be a bit firmer than it was in Madrid.
-Roma v. Arsenal (1-1): Arsenal may regret their many wasted chances. However, I don't feel that Roma has the defense, or the offense, to overcome their deficit to the North Londoners.

-Juventus v. Chelsea (2-1): Chelsea will nip this on the away goals rule. Juve will finally click into scoring gear, but it may be too little, too late.
-Liverpool v. Real Madrid (1-1): Potentially, another dour tie, however, Real will need to push forward, opening the door for the speed of Torres to burn Madrid on the counter.
-Bayern Munich v. Sporting Lisbon (2-2): This will likely be the battle of who could care less. I'd expect Bayern to rest a few of the big guns. The winner of the tie is now a forgone conclusion.
-Panathaniakos v. Villareal (2-1): I'd expect the Greek side to seal the deal at home. Either way, neither side should go any further.