UEFA Champions League Update: I was Right!

BUT FIRST: If you read my last post, you would see that my predictions came true. WOO-HOO! Now Bayern have a chance to win another cup.....

BACK TO THE FACTS: After what was seen as a pretty average game at the Allianz Arena some time ago, Bayern have made sure their French counterparts Lyon didn't shock their critics once more to make it to the next round, the Madrid Final, after a fantastic game which saw Ivica Olic scoring all goals with a hat-trick in a game that ended 3-0 to the Germans (4-0 on aggregate). It was a game that pretty much anyone would have won, but after the Cris, the French side's captain, was sent off, the game very much belonged to the Germans once more. This victory saw Bayern qualify for their first final since winning it in 2001. The side is the only team, (aside from Real Madrid) that has actually won the cup three times in a row (1973 - 1976 seasons).

Italian giants Inter Milan, coached by Jose Mourinho (the best manager in the world, hope he comes to Arsenal!) has once again led a side to the CL final (the other being Porto) after a 3-2 aggregate win despite Barcelona defeating them 1-0 at the Camp Nou. It was a good tactical win for the Nerazzurri, holding the play for the aggregate victory. The only goal of the match was scored by Pique in the 84' minute, but it proved to be just a concellation (the spelling is wrong). Inter are in the Final!

Now it comes down to this. The Final is on May 22nd 2010 and I am sure both managers are within touching distance of one of the greatest victories of their careers....

PREDICTION: I am supporting Bayern, but I feel Inter Milan will win this with difficultly in a classic match off. (Maybe 2-1 to Inter?)

Till next time!

Arsenal down and out as Chelsea storm Stoke!

BUT FIRST: I must say as an Arsenal fan, I feel sad to say that we are out of the Title race unless a miracle happens (which hardly does)!

Ok back to the facts, on Saturday, Arsenal failed to record another 3 points as they drew with a very defensive Manchester City side 0-0. This also confirmed Arsenal leaving the Title Race to just Chelsea and Manchester United, who both recorded wins against Stoke, 7-0 (incredible) and Tottenham (3-1) respectively. Arsenal, who have collected just 1 point from their last 3 games, were pressing hard for goals in a massive display but Man. City, who had just recovered from a Man. United shocker, were on hand to hold the Gunners for the whole match and prevent them from having any chances on winning the league again.

Elsewhere, Burnley were officially relegated from the Prem. after a 4-0 defeat to Champions League hunting Liverpool at home. It was a great first half for the Clarets, but 2 goals from Gerrard, and goals from Maxi and Babel quickly changed the emotions at Turf Moor in the second half.

In a derby clash, Aston Villa are just a fingertip away from CL football next season with a controversial win over massive rivals Birmingham City. It was a penalty seven minutes from time that confirmed the victory for Villa as they make it 3 wins out of 3 games. This, with Tottenham's defeat, makes them level on points with the Spurs with only goal difference and amount of games played (Aston Villa has played one more) dividing the two.

Note: Hull are relegated from the Prem. unless they score 50 goals in their next few games (impossible!).

Meanwhile, Everton might be definitely out for CL qualification but they are keeping their hopes alive for a Europa League place with an unconvincing 2-1 win over Fulham.

My Predictions: The race will come down to the last day with Chelsea winning the League and Manchester United losing the League on Goal Difference. Tottenham will finish in 4th with Aston Villa and Liverpool qualifying for Europa League spots. Blackburn might finish in the top half with their impressive de-fence and Sunderland in 12th. The FA Cup might end in nightmare for Portsmouth or another shocker for Chelsea.

UEFA Champions League: Despite Lyon's fantastic determination, they are no match for a skilled Bayern side, who could win Lyon in the next leg at the Stade de Gerland. Inter Milan can and will hold off Barcelona's small home advantage to get to the second final spot. So expect:

BAYERN MUNICH vs INTER MILAN

Till next time!

Hey to all Football Fans!

Hey, my name is Ikenna Kanu and I this is my blog on the Football topics every week. I would officially start on the World Cup 2010 ALTHOUGH I could comment on the last Premiership days. I'm an Arsenal fan and still waiting for a trophy to be won though!