Soccer FanHouse

Hospitality and Hustle in Budapest: A Champions League Night to Remember

Brian Straus — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: International Soccer, UEFA Champions League

BUDAPEST -- The photo above was taken from my seat at the Debrecen-Olympique Lyon UEFA Champions League game three weeks ago. I was not credentialed as a member of the press. In fact, I wasn't even in the stadium legally, and this seat was never sold for reasons that are pretty apparent.

On the surface, it might not make much sense that my experiences at the Julio Grondona, the Millerntor and Valley Parade were as rewarding as those at La Bombonera, the Olympiastadion and Highbury. But that's because attending a match in a foreign country is about so much more than the view. There are few better ways to delve into a place's character than by passing through (or in the Debrecen case, under) a turnstile. What happened three weeks ago was a memorable example, and will inspire me to cheer on Loki on Tuesday afternoon as it "hosts" Fiorentina.

I first visited Hungary in 2006, and was moved by the humble friendliness of the place. It is a country still coming to terms with the fall of communism and one that is well aware that its transition to a prosperous market economy has been more sluggish than some of its neighbors. Budapest is monumental and beautiful, yet remains years away from taking on the Epcot Center character of a city like Prague. That's a good thing, at least for the tourist. The sleep that Hungary is still rubbing from its eyes is what makes it authentic and livable. It's what motivates the people to put their best foot forward. I've yet to meet a Hungarian who won't try to exhaust their English in the attempt to hold a real conversation, or one who won't go out of their way to be helpful.

That friendliness contrasts with their malaise. I also haven't met many Hungarians who missed the chance to lament their situation. It's an honest sadness. They are a people with ancient roots who have spent much of their history under the thumb of foreigners. On the soccer field, their slide from the summit to the fringes has been profound. The only Hungarian player you've ever heard of, Ferenc Puskas, died three years ago at age 79. The national side, famous for its 31-game unbeaten streak in the early 1950s, its three Olympic gold medals and its stunning loss to Germany in the 1954 World Cup final, hasn't qualified for a major tournament since 1986.

In 2006, two Ujpest fans I met on Vaci Utca in Budapest told me how fortunate I was to be a soccer fan from the United States! That autumn the country's most popular team, Ferencvaros, was playing in the second division thanks to financial irregularities. The army turned out for the match I attended at Ulloi Uti. Ujpest had been kicked out of their own stadium because of hooliganism and was playing at a cement pit down the road. Puskas' famous club, Honved, hadn't won the league since 1993.

Our conception of European soccer tends to focus on the dozen or so corporate superclubs able to afford all the best players and market their jerseys overseas. In many more places, the game is poor and gritty. There are no megastores or dedicated television channels. Soccer in these places still taps into old rivalries and memories. The tickets are cheap, the facilities are in disrepair and the best players are ghosts. The sport serves as a map revealing the fault lines in a given city or country. In some places people are divided by politics. In others it's religion, socioeconomic standing or geography. To learn more, head to the stadium.

I have a friend in Budapest. I'll call her Maggie, mostly because no one who played in a role in the events taking place three weeks ago seemed too thrilled about having their identities made public. Maggie is in her late 20s and is from a small town about 80 miles from the capital. Opportunities there were slim, so she made her way to Budapest. She's well educated and whip smart -- I have the utmost respect for anyone who can speak that impossible language and still has enough left over to be funny in English. She does occasionally need the Magyar-to-Angol dictionary to flesh out her point. When I met her three years ago she was employed by a small travel agency. She now works in the head office of a bus company. She's fortunate to be making about $800 a month.

"I am unlucky to be born in this place," she told me. Maggie has had to scrape for everything she has, and she questions the means under which she acquired it. "I have my job because I know somebody. I have this flat because I know somebody," she said. She gets a break on the rent in her small but brightly-decorated Kispest apartment because the owner, a friend, is doing her a favor. She wishes she could get by solely on merit and that there were more opportunities for someone with her skills. I countered with the argument that being a person who people want to help says a lot about her, and that she consistently returned that faith with kindness and good performance. That is the way the system works there. I don't think it made her feel better.

Yet there was a total genuineness to her generosity. She insisted on paying for my relatively expensive train ticket to Ljubljana and took a day off work to show me around. Good friends of hers, a neighboring couple without a full-time job between them, spent hours cooking wild boar stew for me one night and took Maggie and me on a day-long road trip to Esztergom and Visegrad the following day. It was a friend of that couple's, we'll call him Peter, who sneaked me into the Champions League game that Tuesday night.

Peter obviously had never met me, and I'm not sure how well he knew Maggie. But it didn't matter. We were friends of friends. We were connected. As soon as Maggie and her neighbors knew about my interest in the match, the wheels were in motion.

The Hungarian champion, Debreceni VSC, plays in a 10,000-seat stadium in the far east of the country. It was deemed unsuitable for Champions League play by UEFA, so Loki (so-called because its founders were associated with the railroad) was forced to stage its home games at the 68,000-seat Puskas Ferenc Stadion in Budapest, 120 miles to the west. I figured it wouldn't be hard to get tickets. I was wrong.

For the first time in a long time, Hungary was on the big stage. No Soproni Liga team had advanced to the competition's group stage in 14 years, and Debrecen's big debut was sold out. A 1-0 setback at Anfield to open Group E play had lifted hopes somewhat, and tens of thousands had bought their tickets early to see Loki take on Lyon. One man outside the stadium was selling his pair for nearly 100 euro.

Maggie's friends, the couple, drove us into the city center, where we met Peter and his five companions at a gas station. They hit the McDonald's next door, pounded a few beers in the parking lot and invited us into their minivan, which we then took toward the stadium. Nobody really explained to me what was going on, and I don't think Maggie was completely sure either. Kickoff was approaching and the roads outside Puskas were gridlocked. We neared the stadium, pulled the van onto an island in the middle of the street and parked. Peter spoke no English and said little, and Maggie informed me that everything would be okay. Our hosts bought more beers from a vendor near the gates and just stood around and waited as ticketed fans jostled past. They were nonchalant and confident. The minutes rolled by. I had no idea what was happening or how we would ever get in, and told Maggie that if we didn't I was happy to just watch on television.

The game kicked off, and Peter gave us a nod. We found a path near the gate, snaked our way through and Peter approached a burly security guard dressed in something that resembled riot gear. They exchanged quick kisses on the cheek, the guard gestured to the man at the turnstile, and we walked under and in. Nobody around us said a word. I jogged quickly toward the stadium, half expecting someone to be chasing us.

After a few moments standing on the concourse we made our way to the empty seats near the corner flag. By then, Lyon was ahead 2-0. Still sort of dumbstruck by the ease of our entry, I tried to explain to Maggie the economic disparities on display in front of us. She understood. In the 24th minute, Sidney Govou made it 3-0. But the fans stayed behind a team that wasn't really theirs, cheering "Hajra Loki!" as Lyon eased off the gas pedal. It ended 4-0. "They kept trying until the end," Lyon coach Claude Puel said.

The next day, Peter invited me over to the small rowhouse in Kispest he shares with his mother. After having the "honor" of sneaking me into a game he thought I deserved a gift, naturally, and presented me with a Hungarian national team scarf that now is hanging on my office wall.

I told Maggie that I thought the experience might make for an interesting story. She bristled. I tried to explain that the impressive generosity of her friends, not to mention the whole madcap grey area under which the entire country seems to operate, might interest American fans who appreciate a good bit of soccer sociology. She was worried Hungary might seem corrupt or lawless, perhaps unsympathetic.

To me, there was nothing corrupt about what happened on Sept. 29. The guard who allowed our entry to the Champions League game received nothing in return. He was a friend. In fact, during the second half he came over to the fence you see in the photo and had an animated chat with Peter and his crew, in full view of anyone who cared to take notice. Theoretically, that guard risked his job for that relationship. What he did, what Peter did, what Maggie's friends did and what she herself did during my three days in Hungary was motivated purely by friendship, brotherhood and a collective desire to add a few small pleasures to life in a country and an economy that has yet to catch up with its people. Perhaps someday, one of Peter's friends gladly will do a favor for the guard's sister. If I'm able to track down Peter's address, I'll send him the Alex Ovechkin souvenir puck he covets. It all works out.

On Tuesday afternoon, Debrecen will entertain Fiorentina in Budapest. "We know this will be difficult because Fiorentina are a European-class side who have players who can come up with the unexpected at any time," Loki coach Andras Herczeg said with typical Magyar humility.

I don't know if this game is sold out as well, but I'm confident Peter and his van-mates will be there, hoping for a good evening with friends and an upset that would add a bit of continental glamor to a place they regard as kind of dreary. I disagree. I think Hungary is beautiful, inside and out, and nowhere was that more evident than at the stadium.

Hospitality and Hustle in Budapest: A Champions League Night to Remember originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Live Blog: Liverpool vs. Lyon

FanHouse Newswire — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: UEFA Champions League

Join FanHouse UK's Jeremy Campbell as he hosts a live chat covering Tuesday's Champions League matchup between Liverpool and Lyon.

Lyon currently stands in first place in Group E through two matches, while Liverpool is in third.

The match kicks off at Anfield at 2:45 PM ET. Join FH UK then for complete, up-to-the-minute coverage.

More: FanHouse UK's Complete EPL Coverage

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Live Blog: Liverpool vs. Lyon originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Real Madrid Avoids English Clubs in Champions League Draw

Michael Cardillo — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:20:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer Posts, UEFA Champions League

Let's face it, the European method of pulling names out from the proverbial hat to determine the pairings for its knockout competitions is, well, a foreign concept. About the only Stateside comparison is the selection committee drawing up the NCAA Tournament brackets every March.

To whit, Thursday in Monaco, UEFA staged its annual gala to determine the groups for the 2009-10 Champions League replete with glitz, glamor and the former Miss Switzerland pulling balls out of pots. Certainly a far cry from a group of middle-aged men sitting together in a hotel room discussing RPI.

Ahead of the draw probably the biggest storyline was if the reborn Real Madrid Galacticos featuring Cristiano Ronaldo would end up paired against any of the four English teams in the tournament, most notably Manchester United. However that potential drama ended quickly when the free-spending Madridistas were put into a group with venerable Italian giants AC Milan.

Instead, the big return matches will feature Samuel Eto'o and Zlatan Ibrahimovic who swapped from defending tournament champion Barcelona and Inter Milan this summer, playing against their former clubs in Group B.

The rest of the proceedings were fairly typical, assuming you have a degree in advanced mathematics to comprehend the UEFA coefficient system.

Group A: Bayern Munich, Juventus, Bordeaux , Maccabi Haifa

Group B: Manchester United, CSKA Moscow, Besiktas, Wolfsburg

Group C: AC Milan, Real Madrid, Marseille, FC Zurich

Group D: Chelsea, Porto, Atletico Madrid, Apoel FC

Group E: Liverpool, Lyon, Fiorentina, Debreceni

Group F: Barcelona, Internazionale, Dynamo Kiev, FC Rubin Kazan

Group G: Sevilla, Rangers, VfB Stuttgart, Unirea Uriziceni

Group H: Arsenal, AZ Alkmaar, Olympiakos, Standard Liege

On name reputation alone, Group A should be a doozy with Bayern, Juventus and Ligue I champion Bordeaux.

Manchester United seems to have a trickier draw than usual, with long trips to Moscow -- the sight of its 2008 Champions League win -- and Turkey, plus Bundesliga champions Wolfsburg, which is making its competition debut.

In Group C you'd figure Milan and Real Madrid get through, although Marseille has shown some spark lately in the competition.

Chelsea and Porto meeting again loses some of its luster now that Jose Mourinho is coaching Inter. Atletico Madrid is looming and perhaps the best third-seeded team with a chance to move to the knockout stages.

Liverpool, too, finds itself it a relatively tough grouping with Lyon and Fiorentina dangerous opposition.

In Group F, Barcelona and Inter should advance, though the prospect of trips to the Ukraine and Russia are never easy.

Group G probably has the least juice of any of the groups, with Sevilla not quite what it once was under Juande Ramos. Still, the two-time UEFA Cup Champions should get through. Who will join them is probably a toss-up between Rangers and Stuttgart.

Finally, Arsenal landed itself a very manageable draw with a tour through the Low Countries with Dutch Champs AZ and Belgium champs Standard Liege wrapped around a trip to Greece with Olympiakos.

For Americans one thing to watch for is that for a change a U.S. player will be in the tournament with Oguchi Onyewu suiting up for Milan. How much center back plays is another story. Rangers also features American midfielders DaMarcus Beasley and Maurice Edu.

The first Group Stage matches begin September 15.

Real Madrid Avoids English Clubs in Champions League Draw originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sorry World, Soccer Still Tough to Watch

David Whitley — Wed, 27 May 2009 21:15:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, International Soccer, English Premier League, UEFA Champions League

Can every living creature on Earth except Americans be wrong about something? Wednesday seemed like a great opportunity to find out.

It was the UEFA Champions League final. That's a soccer match, which means this is a soccer column.

HOLD ON!

The only thing Americans hate more than watching a soccer match is having to read about it afterward. So now I know how soccer fans feel.

They just want you to give their sport a fair hearing. What better time than when the greatest, most-anticipated match in soccer history is on?

If ugly Americans can't get into Manchester United vs. FC Barcelona, soccer might as well give up all hope of becoming the 18th most popular sport in the United States, right behind Midget Mixed Martial Arts.

And I swear that will be the last sarcastic comment I'll make about soccer.

Seriously, I want to like the sport. I'm tired of looking at the "beautiful game" and seeing Howard Stern. I'm even more tired of soccer fans getting all defensive when anybody says the game is boring.

You know the drill. They point out that 7 billion people worldwide would rather watch a soccer game than marry Giselle Bundchen. They question the intellect of anyone who doesn't see the beauty.

Frankly, I don't like it when Paraguayans look down at me. So I got excited Wednesday when I got up and heard the guy on ESPN say "just watch it for 10 minutes and you'll see."

Actually, I went back to bed because I didn't want to be drowsy going into kickoff, or whatever they call the opening play.

One thing I know is that the ESPN announcers didn't need naps before the game. They needed tranquilizer darts.

"Barcelona and Manchester come to Rome joyous, fearless but not yet fulfilled," the guy said.

I was too lazy to write down the announcers' names, so based on their accents I'll just call them Winston and Clive. You certainly didn't have to be a hooligan to feel their excitement.

This wasn't just a championship showdown between two of the most storied franchises in soccer history. It also matched Lionel Messi against Cristiano Ronaldo, a.k.a. Kobe and LeBron.

I'm not sure which one would be Kobe and which is LeBron, but I'm sure 7 billion people could breathlessly tell you.

"The dream final. The perfect final," Clive said. "Two teams crammed with football icons."

There's that word. Football. It's always rankled me how the rest of the world stole the name of our real national pastime. So what if people were calling it that before George Halas was born. You don't hear us calling our football "soccer" do you?

You also don't hear us calling the Super Bowl the UEFA Champions League final of football. Most stories I read had the requisite Super Bowl reference, but it didn't really fit.

For one thing, the pregame show didn't begin last Friday. Advantage: soccer.

There wasn't even a circus tent, a lip-synched national anthem or 294 honorary captains at midfield for the coin toss. It's obvious we should put the UEFA people in charge of Super Bowl activities. At least every activity except the actual game.

Everything was electric until the ball was put in play, then the UEFA Champions League final suddenly looked like every other soccer game I've ever seen. A lot of guys running around, a lot of ball kicking, not much to show for it.

"Open mind! Open mind!" I told myself. "Don't let those Paraguayans think you're a rube."

There were some interesting moments, or seconds. Ronaldo peppered a few shots toward the goal. From what I could tell, Manchester United was the Pittsburgh Steelers early on. Then it turned into the Pittsburgh Pirates after the one and only Samuel Eto'o scored for Barcelona.

"The best pure finisher in the world!" Winston said. "One -- nil!"

Latest Soccer Images

Barcelona's supporters celebrate after their team defeated Manchester United in the Champions League final soccer match in Barcelona late May 27, 2009. REUTERS/Gustau Nacarino (SPAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Swiss referee Mario Busacca gestures to a Barcelona team member during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Jon Super)

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo walks past the trophy as dignitaries sit in the stands at the end of the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. Barcelona won 2-0. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola gestures as Manchester United's Patrice Evra grabs the ball during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Manchester United's Carlos Tevez gets ready to restart the game afterBarcelona's Lionel Messi scored during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Jon Super)

Barcelona fans cheer during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Jon Super)

Barcelona's supporters celebrate in Barcelona late May 27, 2009 after their team defeated Manchester United in the Champions League final soccer match. REUTERS/Paul Hanna (SPAIN SPORT SOCCER)

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A FC Barcelona supporter celebrates at the end of the Champions League final in Roma between FC Barcelona and Manchester United on the top a monument in Catalunya Square in Barcelona, Spain, on Wednesday, May 27. Barcelona won 2-0 to Manchester United.(AP Photo/ David Ramos)

Manchester United's Carlos Tevez in action during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Nil?

It was Eto'o's 129th career goal, meaning he's probably been playing 127 years.

I know I promised no more soccer cheap shots, but we'd reached the 10-minute mark and soccer's magic hadn't quite engulfed my senses.

I started jotting down what I liked and didn't like about the game, and the list was surprisingly one-sided. Like:

The clock that doesn't stop for timeouts, Craig Sager interviews or A-Rod to readjust his batting gloves 13 times.

The managers. How can you not be impressed by Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson? Is any NFL coach called "Sir," even by his players? Sir Wade Phillips just doesn't sound right.

The players. They look like regular guys. Actually, Messi looks like the kid who bags my groceries, only dorkier.

The fans. Soccer crowds have a bad reputation, probably because the Hell's Angels are scared to buy tickets to the average European tilt. All I heard Wednesday was a lot of singing, chanting, passion and not a single gunshot.

The announcers. It's not just what they say but how they say it. ESPN ought to let them do NASCAR just to see the look on Elliott Sadler's face when Clive asks him about his chassis.

I could go on, but I hope by now you realize I really, really tried to keep an open mind. Which brings me to the Don't Like list:

Scoring, or the lack of it.

I know I sound like every other ignoramus American, but sheesh. A one-goal lead shouldn't qualify as a blowout.

"Almost 70 minutes into the game and a very unlikely score," Winston said.

What sport has he been watching. Every soccer game is likely to be 1-nil, or nil-nil. This one became 2-0 about 15 seconds later when Messi/Kobe headed one in. Ronaldo/LeBron took it hard.

"You can tell by his body language he's getting frustrated," Clive said.

You could tell by my body language I was getting bored or really needed to use the bathroom. Part of it was just frustration.

I couldn't see the beauty in the game. That would probably take study and learning my midfielder from my right-winger. But shouldn't a beauty this mesmerizing be irresistible? Do you have to force yourself into thinking your wife is smokin'?

OK, don't answer that.

The only conclusion I can make is that 7 billion people aren't wrong, but neither are the rest of us. Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder.

If you think soccer is hot, I'm not going to say you're blind. Just don't look down on me for not seeing things your way.

Try as I might, the chances of that are pretty much nil.

Sorry World, Soccer Still Tough to Watch originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 27 May 2009 21:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Barcelona Dominates Manchester United to Win UEFA Champions League

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 27 May 2009 17:21:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League, La Liga (Spain)

Watching the 2009 Champions League final unfold a sense of déjà vu washed over me. In a lot of ways it was like watching the final of Euro 2008 all over again. Instead of Spain defeating Germany 1-0 last June, Wednesday it was Barcelona defeating Manchester United 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Once again in a big match, the Spanish way of soccer -- namely quick, precise passing -- took precedence. And again it was the twin engine of Andres Iniesta and Xavi pulling the strings in the midfield. Just as Germany found it nearly impossible to win the ball back once down 1-0 last year in Austria, Manchester United found how difficult it was hold possession against the pinpoint passing of the Spanish midfielders.

The win gave Barcelona a treble, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. The club's win also gave Spain the most overall Champions League titles with 12, one better than both England and Italy.

Wednesday it took some time for Barcelona to get going. In fact, Manchester United -- through Cristiano Ronaldo -- came out firing inside the first five minutes. Ronaldo gave United its best chance on a second-minute free kick that Barca keeper Victor Valdes couldn't handle cleanly. Yet Ji-Sung Park was late to the rebound and United couldn't convert.

In the 10th minute Iniesta initiated Barcelona's first attack and it proved to be the difference. Iniesta raced up the field untouched and laid off a pass to Samuel Eto'o on the right side of the box. Eto'o essentially juked United defender Nemanja Vidic out of his pants and fired a ball inside the near post past Edwin van der Sar.

Once Barcelona went ahead it was pretty much lights out for Manchester United. The Red Devils could barely possess the ball. At halftime Sir Alex Ferguson brought on Carlos Tevez and later Dmitar Berbatov, but it was no matter as they couldn't trouble Barcelona's makeshift back line.

Champions League Snapshots

Manchester United's Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo fails to stop a ball which leaves the pitch during the final of the UEFA football Champions League against FC Barcelona on May 27, 2009 at the Olympic Stadium in Rome. AFP PHOTO / CARL DE SOUZA (Photo credit should read CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Barcelona's Thierry Henry, center, faces Manchester United goalie Edwin van der Sar during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Manchester United fans react as they watch the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona on a giant screen set up in Rome, Wednesday, May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Riccardo De Luca)

Barcelona's Thierry Henry, faces Manchester United goalie Edwin van der Sar during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Manchester United's Carlos Tevez, left, and Barcelona's Lionel Messi vie for the ball as Manchester United's Ji-Sung Park looks on, during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Barcelona's Thierry Henry, right, gets the ball past Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand during the UEFA Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona in Rome, Wednesday May 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Barcelona's coach Pep Guardiola gestures during their Champions League final soccer match against Manchester United at the Olympic Stadium in Rome, May 27, 2009. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi (ITALY SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Manchester United's goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar looks down during their Champions League final soccer match against Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium in Rome, May 27, 2009. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi (ITALY SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Manchester United's supporters react as they watch ,on a big screen the Champions League final soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona, in Rome May 27, 2009. REUTERS/Alessia Pierdomenico (ITALY SPORT SOCCER IMAGES OF THE DAY)

Reuters

Barcelona sealed the match in the 70th minute when Xavi chipped in a perfect ball to Lionel Messi, who rose and put his whole, tiny body behind the powerful header that sealed the game. Messi, who had be criticized for some of his Champions League showings especially against English teams, quieted those doubters with his first goal against an English team. Messi finished with nine goals to lead the competition, pushing him to the top of the list for all the Player of the Year awards.

Oddly enough, the suspensions of Barcelona outside backs Dani Alves and Eric Abidal might have actually helped out Wednesday. Captain Carlos Puyol shifted to right back and did a yeoman's job marking against Ronaldo. As the game wore on, his physicality appeared to take the Portuguese star out of his game. Sylvinho, too, did a good job taking Wayne Rooney completely out of the match.

In fact it's hard to remember a game where nobody on Manchester United seemed to play a good match, especially the midfield. A good part of this was a product of Barcelona keeping the pressure up and never allowing United a lifeline. The miracle of 1999 would not be repeated 10 years later, as United were denied a chance to repeat.

Now the questions turn to the future.

Was this the last match for Ronaldo and Tevez in Manchester United shirts?

Will Barcelona -- and in turn, Spain's dominance on the world of football -- carry over into next year and the 2010 World Cup?

In the end It all boiled down to pure dominance by Pep Guardiola's men plain and simple. Barcelona Wednesday proved they were by a good margin the best team in the world this season.

Barcelona Dominates Manchester United to Win UEFA Champions League originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 27 May 2009 17:21:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manchester United vs. Barcelona Live Blog for Champions League Final

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League, La Liga (Spain)

The biggest game of the 2009 world soccer calendar kicks off Wednesday night at Rome's Stadio Olimpico when Manchester United and FC Barcelona meet for the UEFA Champions League final. It's a true soccer lover's dream, pitting the champions of the Premier League and La Liga for club soccer's premier trophy.

Will it be Cristiano Ronaldo leading the Red Devils to their second consecutive Champions League crown? Or will it be Lionel Messi heading the Catalan giants to their second trophy in four years?

The game kicks off at 2:45 PM ET, and we'll be live-blogging shortly beforehand.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=1aabf8bcf1&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Manchester United vs. Barcelona Live Blog&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Manchester United vs. Barcelona Live Blog for Champions League Final originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 27 May 2009 13:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All Eyes on Champions League Final

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:07:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League, La Liga (Spain)

Manchester United ... Barcelona ... the UEFA Champions League final. What more really needs to be said?

Wednesday night in Rome (ESPN, 2:25 PM ET) the best team in Europe will be crowned in a contest pitting the champions of what are considered the two top professional leagues in the world -- the (English) Premier League and La Liga. Oh right, there's the juicy subplot between two of the world's best players, too, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi squaring off at the Stadio Olimpico.

United, the defending champions, are gunning to become the competition's first back-to-back winner since the great Gullit/van Basten/Rijkaard AC Milan club won the then European Cup in 1989 and 1990. It's also the 10th anniversary of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's famous late winner that gave Manchester United the 1999 Champions League and its historic 'treble'.

Barcelona last won the competition in 2006, beating Arsenal 2-1 in France on a pair of goals in the final 15 minutes. Oddly enough, the Catalan giants are nearly a new side from that squad that featured on the Stade de France. Gone is match-winner Juliano Belletti, Deco, Mark van Bommel and Ronaldinho, etc. The only holdovers for Barcelona that should play in both matches are Samuel Eto'o, Carlos Puyol, keeper Victor Valdes and Andres Iniesta, who came on as a sub in 2006 to help set up the winner.

However, Iniesta -- the hero who won the semifinal with his late winner against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge -- is fighting a late fitness test. So is striker Thierry Henry, who featured for Arsenal in the 2006 final.

Meanwhile, Manchester United breathes a sigh of relief as defender Rio Ferdinand was declared well enough to play, as he'll team with partner Nemanja Vidic is the center of the Red Devils defense.

Something to keep in mind is that four of the eight Champions League final this decade have been decided by penalties, including last year's final between Manchester United and Chelsea in Moscow. Ronaldo admitted Tuesday that United have practiced penalties ahead of the final, though it's nearly impossible to simulate the tension and drama of a spot kick to decide the biggest game of the year in a practice scenario.

One thing to look out for is if Manchester Uniter manager Sir Alex Ferguson opts to follow the pattern that Chelsea's Guus Hiddink did in the first leg of its semifinal against Barcelona, namely the Blues packed it in trying to bottle up the lanes around the box that Barca love to operate inside. Of course, that tactic almost proved effective in a two-leg affair, so it's doubtful that United will attempt to play for 120 minutes and penalties.

With left back Patrice Evra, United do possess a player that can run and mark the Barcelona outside players. The other place to watch the United lineup is whether Ferguson opts for the old hand Paul Scholes to pair with Michael Carrick in the middle of the field or will Anderson get the nod to slow down the Barca midfield?

Whatever Ferguson chooses, he has plenty of options on the bench and can adjust as the game progresses, with Carlos Tevez -- in perhaps his last game for United -- a possible game changer.

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola probably needs to wait and see on the fitness of his players. If Iniesta is unable to play, he might opt for a more defensive midfield, with Xavi leading the attack. If Barcelona win, it would cap quite a 365 days for Xavi, as he'd lead both Spain to Euro 2008 glory and Barca to the Champions League. Barcelona also must cope with the suspensions of outside backs Dani Alves and Eric Abidal, who are out through yellow card suspension.

One thing that Guardiola must stress with his team is that it takes its chances when presented, instead of trying for the perfect goal. A goal is a goal at this point. Messi, if he is to become the World Player of the Year, must assert himself on this match.

This one has drama written all over it and if I had to make a guess, United wins ... once again in penalty kicks. The Red Devils have a little more strength and the ability to change as the game goes on. Barcelona needs a flash of brilliance, or more to win, and that's hard to count on.

All Eyes on Champions League Final originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 26 May 2009 13:07:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chelsea-Barca Ref Forced Into Hiding

Michael Cardillo — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Throughout the history of team sports, spectators have probably joked about causing bodily harm to an umpire or referee. In the wake of Barcelona's last-minute Champions League semifinal victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, this sort of thinking has become no laughing matter as the match's official -- Tom Henning Ovrebo -- has been forced into hiding after receiving numerous threats.

The Norwegian denied Chelsea, what the Blues felt, were three possible penalty kicks -- the first when Dani Alves dragged down Flourent Malouda in the box in the first half and the next two on possible handballs on Barcelona players Gerard Pique and Samuel Eto'o. The second call, which would have gone against Eto'o in injury time, has already sparked numerous YouTube parodies featuring Chelsea's Michael Ballack's over the top reaction.

In fairness, Ovrebo had a night to forget and let the game get away from him in the dying minutes. The missed call on Pique was especially egregious. Yet, that's obviously no excuse for people to publish the ref's Oslo address and make threats on his life.

It's certainly got to be tough to be a Chelsea fan this week after another gut-wrenching Champions League defeat. The club is full of stars and is good enough to win the competition, but last year lost to Manchester United in the final on penalty kicks and Wednesday got knocked out in the 93rd minute in the second leg of the semifinal. Ouch.

While Chelsea's general frustration can be understood, we still live in a world where you have to abide the ref's whistle and decision. Or as my friend John puts it, "Friends, you gotta play by the rules."

Chelsea-Barca Ref Forced Into Hiding originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Fri, 08 May 2009 10:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Barcelona Deals Chelsea Heart-Breaking Loss, Reaches Champions League Final

FanHouse Newswire — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:51:00 EST

Filed under: English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, La Liga (Spain)

LONDON (AP) - Barcelona advanced to the European Champions League final against Manchester United in dramatic fashion, tying Chelsea 1-1 Wednesday night when Andres Iniesta scored in the third minute of second-half injury time.

Michael Essien scored on a 20-yard shot in the ninth minute for Chelsea, which lost last year's final to Manchester United on penalty kicks.

Champions League Snapshots

Chelsea's Michael Ballack (R) screams at referee Tom Henning Ovrebo after a possible handball by Barcelona during their Champions League second leg semi-final soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. The game ended 1-1, Barcelona won on the away goal rule. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER IMAGES OF THE DAY)

Reuters

Frank Lampard of Chelsea reacts after Andres Iniesta of Barcelona scored the winning goal against his team in injury time during their Champions League second leg semi-final soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Barcelona's Lionel Messi (R) is congratulated by his manager Josep Guardiola after their Champions League second leg semi-final soccer match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta (R) and Samuel Eto'o celebrate a goal against Chelsea during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. REUTERS/Albert Gea (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta, center, celebrates with Samuel Eto'o after scoring his sides equalising goal during their Champions League semifinal second leg soccer match against Chelsea at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Wednesday, May, 6, 2009. (AP Photo/ Matt Dunham)

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta, left, reacts after scoring a goal against Chelsea during their Champions League semifinal second leg soccer match at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Wednesday, May, 6, 2009. (AP Photo/ Jon Super)

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta, no8 shoots and scores a a goal against Chelsea during their Champions League semifinal second leg soccer match at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Wednesday, May, 6, 2009. (AP Photo/ Jon Super)

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta , center, celebrates at the end of the match as his team win their Champions League semifinal second leg soccer match at against Chelsea at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge Stadium in London, Wednesday, May 6, 2009. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Reuters

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta celebrates a goal against Chelsea during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. REUTERS/Albert Gea (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

But Iniesta beat goalkeeper Petr Cech after collecting a ball from Lionel Messi and tied the aggregate 1-1 in the home-and-home, total-goals series. Barcelona, which finished a man short following Eric Abidal's ejection in the 66th minute, advanced because of a 1-0 advantage in away goals.

Manchester United will try to win the title for the fourth time when it meets Barcelona on May 27 at Rome, following victories in 1968, 1999 and last year. Barcelona won Europe's top club soccer crown in 1992 and 2006.

Chelsea players surrounded Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo after the final whistle at Stamford Bridge, angry they weren't awarded at least two penalty kicks - one for a free kick he gave outside the penalty area after a foul that was within, the other for a hand ball that wasn't called against Samuel Eto'o.

Didier Drogba, who had gone down twice inside the area, was pulled away from the official by Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink.

Barcelona was without Thierry Henry, who didn't dress because of a knee injury.

Essien scored off the bottom of the crossbar, beating goalkeeper Victor Valdes after Ashley Cole fed Frank Lampard, who pass went off a Barca defender and came loose outside the area.

Valdes later raced off his line to beat Drogba to the ball. Chelsea should have had a penalty awarded when Florent Malouda was brought down by Daniel Alves a yard inside the area, although the referee ruled it happened on the edge.

Drogba should have made it 2-0 in the 53rd minute when he collected a pass from Nicolas Anelka and turned past a defender only for Valdes to block his shot with his leg.

Barcelona Deals Chelsea Heart-Breaking Loss, Reaches Champions League Final originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 06 May 2009 16:51:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manchester United Thumps Arsenal, Advances to Champions League Final

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 05 May 2009 16:52:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Is it possible Sir Alex Ferguson pressed one of those annoying Staples buttons in the dressing room before Tuesday's UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg against Arsenal because, boy, that sure looked easy. Almost too easy, as the Red Devils strolled to a 3-1 win and 4-1 on aggregate and move onto the final in Rome with the chance to defend their trophy from last season.

It got started quick when Cristiano Ronaldo centered a ball to Ji-Sung Park, who capitalized on a slip by Kieran Gibbs, as the Korean international powered it past Manuel Almunia in the 11th minute.

Before Arsenal could even catch its breath, it was Ronaldo at the ready three minutes later. On the same day there were heavy rumors Manchester United would make a world-record transfer bid on Franck Ribery to possibly replace the Portuguese winger should the siren's song of Real Madrid prove too strong, Ronaldo showed why he is priceless to United. His picture-perfect dipping free kick all but ended the match with nearly 75 minutes still showing on the Emirates clock.

United capped the onslaught midway through the second half on another classy goal, this time a text book work of counter-attacking displayed by Ronadlo, Park and Wayne Rooney. Ronaldo started the movement in his own half and then finished it off with a powerful shot from up close on the other. Truly brilliant stuff for United.

Champions League Snapshots

Match referee Roberto Rosetti , left shows Manchester United's Darren Fletcher, right, the red card during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match against Arsenal at the Emirates stadium in London, Tuesday, May 5, 2009. Manchester United defeated Arsenal 3-1.(AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo, left, scores his second goal of the game during the Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match against Arsenal at the Emirates stadium in London, Tuesday, May 5, 2009. (AP Photo/PA, David Davies) ** UNITED KINGDOM OUT, NO SALES, NO ARCHIVE **

Manchester United players celebrate after defeating Arsenal in their second leg Champions League semi-final soccer match at the Emirates stadium in London May 5, 2009. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Manchester United's South Korean midfielder Park Ji-Sung (R) tussles with Arsenal's Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Eboue (L) during their UEFA Champions League semi final second leg football match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, North London, England, on May 5, 2009. Manchester United won 3-1. AFP PHOTO/CARL DE SOUZA (Photo credit should read CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Manchester United's South Korean midfielder Park Ji-Sung (R) vies with Arsenal's Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Eboue (L) during their UEFA Champions League semi final 2nd leg football match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, North London, England, on May 5, 2009. Titleholders Manchester United qualified for the European Champions League final, beating Arsenal 3-1 on the night and 4-1 on aggregate in their Champions League semi-final.AFP PHOTO/CARL DE SOUZA (Photo credit should read CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Arsenal's Spanish goalkeeper Manuel Almunia shows his disappointment during their UEFA Champions League semi final 2nd leg football match against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, North London, England, on May 5, 2009. Titleholders Manchester United qualified for the European Champions League final, beating Arsenal 3-1 on the night and 4-1 on aggregate in their Champions League semi-final. AFP PHOTO/CARL DE SOUZA (Photo credit should read CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Park Ji-Sung (C) of Manchester United celebrates scoring his team's first goal with Darren Fletcher during their Champions League second leg semi-final soccer match at the Emirates stadium in London May 5, 2009. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh (BRITAIN SPORT SOCCER)

Reuters

Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor, left vies for the ball with Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic, right during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match at the Emirates stadium in London, Tuesday, May 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Arsenal's Theo Walcott, right vies for the ball with Manchester United's Wayne Rooney, left during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match at the Emirates stadium in London, Tuesday, May 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

The only blemish for the Red Devils was that inside the final 10 minutes Darren Fletcher was sent off with a straight red card for apparently dragging down Cesc Fabregas in the box. Replays showed that the Scottish midfielder might have gotten a raw deal, as he first played the ball. Robin van Persie converted the ensuing penalty for Arsenal.

All in all, this was a complete dismantling of Arsenal by Manchester United. The Red Devils dictated the pace from the start and never allowed the Gunners any room to do anything on offense.

Sir Alex Ferguson has achieved just about everything with Manchester United, but winning back-to-back Champions Leagues would be the icing on the cake of a legendary career.

Manchester United Thumps Arsenal, Advances to Champions League Final originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 05 May 2009 16:52:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Arsenal vs. Manchester United Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

The second leg of the all-English Champions League semifinal resumes Tuesday afternoon when Manchester United heads south to London to face rival Arsenal. The defending tournament champion Red Devils head to the capital with a 1-0 lead thanks to John O'Shea's tally in first half last week.

Manchester United is expected to have defender Rio Ferdinand back, who picked up an injury in the final minutes last week. Playing against Arsenal is that the Gunners haven't advanced from a Champions League knockout game after losing the first leg, yet they also haven't lost a home game in the competition since 2004-05.

The match kicks off at 2:45 PM ET and we'll be blogging shortly before that.

&amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;altcast_code=1300bb1da4" &amp;gt;Arsenal vs. Manchester United Live Blog&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

Arsenal vs. Manchester United Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manchester United vs. Arsenal Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Update: Follow second leg of their Champions League semifinal match.

There are big games, and then there are big games. It's safe to classify Wednesday's Champions League semifinal between English powers Manchester United and Arsenal in the latter category. Oddly enough this is the first time the two rivals will meet in European competition.

Manchester United, the defending champions, haven't lost in the Champions League in 23 matches, which is a record. It's also the 37th meeting between managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. The Frenchman owns a slim advantage in the wins category at 14-13.

The action kicks off in Manchester at 2:45 PM ET, and we'll be blogging shortly beforehand.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=d0532e1f32&amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;gt;Manchester United v. Arsenal Live Blog&amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/center&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Manchester United vs. Arsenal Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Arsenal's Vela Quarantined as Precaution Before Champion League Match

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:38:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, International, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Tuesday wasn't exactly the best day to be a Mexican soccer player. During Barcelona's Champions League 0-0 draw with Chelsea, Rafael Marquez crumpled to the ground with a contact-free knee injury, which will knock him out for the season.

Later in the day it was revealed that Arsenal midfielder Carlos Vela was quarantined and told to stay away from training ahead of the Gunners Wednesday Champions League semifinal with Manchester United. Arsenal took the precaution due to this week's swine flu outbreak and because Vela had recently had friends visit from Mexico, which is at the epicenter of the health crisis.

The swine flu crisis already forced health authorities to close doors for Mexican soccer matches last weekend and the fan spectator ban will be in effect again this weekend. Also, Wednesday night's friendly between Club American and the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park will feature hand sanitizers around the stadium.

Arsenal's Vela Quarantined as Precaution Before Champion League Match originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:38:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FC Porto vs. Manchester United Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Manchester United's quest for five titles might come to an end Wednesday in Porto, Portugal when the Red Devils play FC Porto in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League (following a 2-2 result in the first leg last week). Porto has never lost at home to an English opponent in 11 matches. On the plus side, however, Manchester United is expected to welcome defender Rio Ferdinand back into the fold.

The match kicks off at 2:45 PM ET and we'll be live blogging shortly beforehand. Hit the jump for the chat.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=b581657e3e&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;FC Porto vs. Manchester United Live Blog&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

FC Porto vs. Manchester United Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chelsea vs. Liverpool Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Six days ago at Anfield, Chelsea notched an impressive and comprehensive 3-1 scoreline against rival Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal affair. To put it mildly, Liverpool needs a minor miracle to overcome the two-goal deficit. The Reds must score at least three goals to have any hope of advancing.

Chelsea's defense isn't as air-tight as it once was -- witness three goals in the second half allowed to Bolton on Saturday. Either way, these affairs are always must-watch, and if there's one team that can conjure something magical on a European night, it's Liverpool.

The match kicks off at 2:45 PM ET, we'll start blogging shortly before that.

&amp;amp;lt;a href=&quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=2c04a5eb7e&quot; &amp;amp;gt;Chelsea vs. Liverpool Live Blog&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Chelsea vs. Liverpool Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Liverpool vs. Chelsea Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Update: Check out the second leg of Liverpool-Chelsea at FanHouse.

For the 235th time in the last five years, Liverpool and Chelsea will play each other in the UEFA Champions League. Actually, the real total is the fifth straight year it just feels a whole lot more. This time around the rivals renew things in the 2008-09 quarterfinals.

The match kicks off at 2:45 PM ET, we'll be blogging shortly before.
&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=9afe3b7ae7&amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Liverpool vs. Chelsea Live&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Liverpool vs. Chelsea Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manchester United vs. FC Porto Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

Update: Check out second leg of Manchester United-FC Porto now.

The UEFA Champions League resumes this afternoon with a pair of games, including Manchester United hosting FC Porto in a rematch of a famous 2004 affair which saw the Dragões knockout on the Red Devils en route to winning the entire competition. This time around, Jose Mourinho will not be there to celebrate on the touchline.

Tuesday's match pits the leaders in the Premier League and the Liga Sagres with the winner getting the Arsenal/Villareal winner. The match starts at 2:30 PM ET, and we'll be live blogging shortly before the start.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=ab3ed87db9&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Manchester United vs. FC Porto&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Manchester United vs. FC Porto Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fox Soccer Wins American UEFA Champions League Rights

Michael Cardillo — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 20:15:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

This dropped out of the sky Monday, the fact that Fox Soccer Channel won the American rights to broadcast the UEFA Champions League starting next season, edging out ESPN -- the self-proclaimed 'Worldwide Leader in Sports.' Fox Soccer hasn't made an official statement, but ESPN has apparently confirmed the deal.

The ramifications for the American soccer fan could pretty large -- namely because ESPN is currently available in almost triple the homes compared to FSC. Granted the games are usually on during the middle of the afternoon in the States, but these certainly cuts down on the number of eyeballs on the games, meaning Fox must have blown UEFA's doors off with its bid.

For Fox, this has to be considered a major power play to get FSC on more homes in the country. It'll be a lot easier to convince carriers and soccer fans to add the channel now that it's home to the two biggest non-World Cup entities -- the Champions League and the Premier League.

Monday's out of left field announcement is a good news/bad news scenario for American soccer fans. It's hard to overlook the major fact that ESPN is much more readily available than FSC. Beyond that, it's probably a good thing since it's a network devoted to soccer and will likely develop some original programming around the competition. It'll likely also force FSC to up its production value from the ground floor, which won't hurt.

What this means for the long-term future of soccer on ESPN is harder to figure out right now. I'm guessing ESPN retained its Champions League rights in other markets, like the Pacific Rim. ESPN is already committed to the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, but beyond that, who knows? It's a safe guess the Bottom Line won't be running scores of a CSKA/Lyon match any time in the near future.

ESPN aired the matches and did have a weekly show on ESPN Classic, but beyond that, the competition was relegated to the back burner. Then again, the mere fact the Champions League aired on ESPN was probably a good thing for the growth of the sport in America. It's odd ESPN, which seemed so gung-ho toward soccer post Euro-2008, would lose these rights, along with striking out on the Premier League. Will ESPN bid for the next World Cup or renew its MLS contract when that runs out?

And if it means more Bobby McMahon in our lives, that's never a bad thing.

Fox Soccer Wins American UEFA Champions League Rights originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 20:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions League Quarterfinals Drawn

Michael Cardillo — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:45:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, Soccer, UEFA Champions League

One of these days I'd like to find out who the man was that proposed to FIFA and or UEFA that the best way to draw teams together in a competition is pulling numbered balls out of bowls. This is the 21st century last time I checked, right?

Anyway, that's the system used by UEFA Friday to determine it's quarterfinal match-ups for the 2008-09 Champions League. Conspiracy theorists love to think that the balls are somehow doctored to rig the pairings, but after today's draw those complaints fall on dead ears, because quite simply does anyone want to see Chelsea and Liverpool play yet again in the Champions League?

The Chelsea/Liverpool pairing ensures that it won't be an all-English, 4-for-4 semifinal. It also means the two Premier League giants will play each other in Europe's top tier club competition for the fourth time in five years in the knockout rounds and fifth straight year overall. Chelsea knocked out Liverpool last year on its way to losing the final to Manchester United in Moscow.

The chance for three English teams in the semifinals still remains, as Arsenal drew Villareal and defending champion Manchester United is paired with 2004 winner FC Porto. The final quarterfinal pits two of the world's super-clubs Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

If Manchester United and Arsenal each win, they'd play each other in the semifinals. While the Liverpool/Chelsea winner gets the Barca/Bayern winner.

The first legs of the quarterfinals are on April 7 or 8 and the second leg a week later.

Champions League Quarterfinals Drawn originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manchester United vs. Inter Milan Live Blog

Michael Cardillo — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:45:00 EST

Filed under: European Soccer, English Premier League, Soccer, UEFA Champions League, Serie A (Italy)

Manchester United and Inter Milan face off in Wednesday's second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 affair at Old Trafford. Choose your adjective to describe it -- huge, massive, epic, etc. Before the match, Inter defender Ivan Cordoba was quoted as saying the team will need to play the "game of its lives" to advance. So yeah, it's a big one.

Two weeks ago, the teams played to a 0-0 draw at the San Siro. Since then, Inter boss Jose Mourinho said he could coach Manchester United; maybe just to stir the pot and create some controversy. However you want to slice it, either the leader in England or Italy is going home earlier than expected.

The fun kicks off at 3:30 PM ET after the jump.

Manchester United vs. Inter Milan Live Blog originally appeared on Soccer FanHouse on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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