Quarterfinals!

Champions League QF's and predictions

APOEL v Real Madrid:  You have to think that this is a pretty easy decision.  APOEL have played really well, but they got out of what most would consider the easiest first round group, and then squeaked past an indifferent Lyon side.  Real Madrid barnstormed through their group, and followed that up with a domination of play over 2 legs against the Russian side CSKA.  That being said, it might be closer than people think, but Madrid should advance to the semis.  I think they do.  MADRID

Marseille v Bayern:  Could be a great tie.  Marseille already knocked out one of the super powers in Inter Milan, and did come from a relatively difficult group stage.  They could've beaten Inter by more goals in the first leg too.  Bayern has been lukewarm in the Bundesliga, but absolutely fantastic in CL.  When fully fit, they might be the 3rd best side in the world to speak of.  The final is in their stadium, and they will most certainly be up for this.  BAYERN

Benfica v Chelsea.  At this point I think the draw is rigged.  How did every single top side draw the second game at home and all avoid each other in the QF stage?  Amazing!  But let's discuss.  Benfica has been consistent so far, and played both United and Basel really well.  They have a nice attacking side, and some underrated Brazilian defenders as well.  Many of their stars are already linked with bigger sides.  Chelsea being one of those sides, played fantastically to get to this point against Napoli at Stamford Bridge.  Not only did they need goals, but they needed to keep the triumvirate of Cavani-Lavezzi-Hamsik out of the net.  Missing accomplished.  I think they can do it again, but it will be really close.  CHELSEA

Milan v Barcelona.  Probably every one's favorite pairing.  The best team in the world without question against a side that isn't afraid of the best team in the world.  When Milan is on, they can win at any stadium at any time.  Only the same goes for Barcelona who beyond having a few problems with Milan, have played with relative ease throughout this Champions League tournament.  Milan thought they had similar ease, until they played at the Emirates.  I am surprised to see them here.  Maybe its meant to be.  MILAN

Top 4 players to watch (that will make a difference, not in quality)
1st tie: Mesut Ozil  CAM
2nd tie: Franck Ribery LW
3rd tie: John Terry CB
4th tie: Zlatan Ibrahimovic CF

Enjoy the matches!  Bilbao for Europa!  The Draw