the cheap over
can you smell the 2-2 tie...(though call on Roma). Instead of this risk, I am hoping Valencia shows no merci.
If they even remotely make the effort, it could be 2-0 by half time.
the question is: Do they send the subs in the second half and coast
for a scoreless half? - Thus making it a crappy under?
Cautiously...3 units on Valencia over 2.5 goals
let's hope for the 2-1 win.
Cheers, and good luck
rhinooooo said:
can you smell the 2-2 tie...(though call on Roma). Instead of this risk, I am hoping Valencia shows no merci.
If they even remotely make the effort, it could be 2-0 by half time.
the question is: Do they send the subs in the second half and coast
for a scoreless half? - Thus making it a crappy under?
Cautiously...3 units on Valencia over 2.5 goals
let's hope for the 2-1 win.
Cheers, and good luck
UEFA.COM Preview - Werder Bremen vs. Levski Sofia
Buoyant Bremen look for Levski lift-off
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
<!-- /noindex --><!-- noindex -->
<!-- /noindex -->Although Werder Bremen have failed to win either of their first two games in UEFA Champions League Group A, coach Thomas Schaaf is full of confidence ahead of the visit of PFC Levski Sofia.
Bremen boost
Bremen bounced back from losing at Chelsea FC on Matchday 1 with an impressive display against holders FC Barcelona, only for Lionel Messi's last-gasp equaliser to deny them a morale-boosting victory. Schaaf's men did win 6-0 at VfL Bochum 1848 on Saturday, and the coach believes that result has provided an injection of optimism, saying: "We respect Levski, their qualification for the group stage speaks for itself. But we are obviously full of confidence. The win at Bochum provided us with even more strength and there's no reason we shouldn't take these positive aspects into the match."
Midfield absentees
The German club will be without key midfielders Frank Baumann and Tim Borowski, with Jurica Vranješ likely to shield the back four in their absence. "We had hoped Frank's injury would improve but it didn't and therefore he hasn't been included. Tim has recovered from his knee injury very quickly but he still has a few problems and it would be stupid to take any risks," explained Schaaf, who is keen to avoid underestimating a Levski team who have conceded eight goals in losing to Barça and Chelsea. "I don't care what the so-called experts say. Levski play very well as a unit and can pose a danger. We want to play well, win and put on an exciting display for our fans and that's exactly what we'll do."
Lessons learnt
Although the Bulgarian side went down 5-0 at Camp Nou in their first away fixture, coach Stanimir Stoilov is adamant that they have learned a lot from that defeat and the home reverse on Matchday 2. "We enjoyed a lot of possession, especially against Chelsea," he said. "Sadly we didn't get the result we all wanted but hopefully we can continue where we left off in that game and get a good result. This is our first time in the Champions League and we are suffering under the pressure. Hopefully we can improve with every game but Bremen are one of the best teams in Europe. We must defend extremely well and keep possession. Bremen won't give us a minute to relax and will attack whenever possible."
Strikers missing
But even with strikers Valeri Domovchiyski and Georgi Ivanov rated doubtful with minor injuries, and Emil Angelov still missing with a groin problem, Stoilov will not adopt a defensive approach in Bremen. "We can't just rely on our defence," said the coach, who is expected to start with Hristo Yovov up front with Cédric Bardon in a slightly deeper role. "We must also get players forward to have any hope of getting the result we want. I am sure the fans can look forward to an exciting tie."
Probable teams
Bremen: Tim Wiese; Clemens Fritz, Per Mertesacker, Naldo, Pierre Wome; Torsten Frings, Jurica Vranješ, Diego, Christian Schulz; Miroslav Klose, Aaron Hunt.
Levski: Georgi Petkov; Zhivko Milanov, Igor Tomašić, Elin Topuzakov, Lucio Wagner; Daniel Borimirov, Richard Eromoigbe, Dimitar Telkiyski, Stanislav Angelov, Cédric Bardon; Hristo Yovov.
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Buoyant Bremen look for Levski lift-off
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
<!-- /noindex --><!-- noindex -->
<!-- /noindex -->Although Werder Bremen have failed to win either of their first two games in UEFA Champions League Group A, coach Thomas Schaaf is full of confidence ahead of the visit of PFC Levski Sofia.
Bremen boost
Bremen bounced back from losing at Chelsea FC on Matchday 1 with an impressive display against holders FC Barcelona, only for Lionel Messi's last-gasp equaliser to deny them a morale-boosting victory. Schaaf's men did win 6-0 at VfL Bochum 1848 on Saturday, and the coach believes that result has provided an injection of optimism, saying: "We respect Levski, their qualification for the group stage speaks for itself. But we are obviously full of confidence. The win at Bochum provided us with even more strength and there's no reason we shouldn't take these positive aspects into the match."
Midfield absentees
The German club will be without key midfielders Frank Baumann and Tim Borowski, with Jurica Vranješ likely to shield the back four in their absence. "We had hoped Frank's injury would improve but it didn't and therefore he hasn't been included. Tim has recovered from his knee injury very quickly but he still has a few problems and it would be stupid to take any risks," explained Schaaf, who is keen to avoid underestimating a Levski team who have conceded eight goals in losing to Barça and Chelsea. "I don't care what the so-called experts say. Levski play very well as a unit and can pose a danger. We want to play well, win and put on an exciting display for our fans and that's exactly what we'll do."
Lessons learnt
Although the Bulgarian side went down 5-0 at Camp Nou in their first away fixture, coach Stanimir Stoilov is adamant that they have learned a lot from that defeat and the home reverse on Matchday 2. "We enjoyed a lot of possession, especially against Chelsea," he said. "Sadly we didn't get the result we all wanted but hopefully we can continue where we left off in that game and get a good result. This is our first time in the Champions League and we are suffering under the pressure. Hopefully we can improve with every game but Bremen are one of the best teams in Europe. We must defend extremely well and keep possession. Bremen won't give us a minute to relax and will attack whenever possible."
Strikers missing
But even with strikers Valeri Domovchiyski and Georgi Ivanov rated doubtful with minor injuries, and Emil Angelov still missing with a groin problem, Stoilov will not adopt a defensive approach in Bremen. "We can't just rely on our defence," said the coach, who is expected to start with Hristo Yovov up front with Cédric Bardon in a slightly deeper role. "We must also get players forward to have any hope of getting the result we want. I am sure the fans can look forward to an exciting tie."
Probable teams
Bremen: Tim Wiese; Clemens Fritz, Per Mertesacker, Naldo, Pierre Wome; Torsten Frings, Jurica Vranješ, Diego, Christian Schulz; Miroslav Klose, Aaron Hunt.
Levski: Georgi Petkov; Zhivko Milanov, Igor Tomašić, Elin Topuzakov, Lucio Wagner; Daniel Borimirov, Richard Eromoigbe, Dimitar Telkiyski, Stanislav Angelov, Cédric Bardon; Hristo Yovov.
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UEFA.COM Preview - Inter Milan vs. Spartak Moscow
Mancini sets target as Spartak arrive
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
<!-- /noindex -->Ahead of FC Spartak Moskva's arrival at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday, FC Internazionale Milano coach Roberto Mancini defended his side against the growing hysteria surrounding the Nerazzurri's stuttering quest for UEFA Champions League glory.
Mixed form
Inter needed to call on all their reserves to come from behind to beat promoted Calcio Catania 2-1 on Sunday, a victory which takes them two points clear at the Serie A summit after six matches. Their European form is another matter entirely, back-to-back defeats leaving them at the foot of Group B with four games to play. "I think ten points from those games will be enough to qualify," Mancini said. "The main thing is that we win against Spartak. We hope we'll do so in style but you can't always guarantee that. If we win, everything will return to normal. We were much better in the second half on Sunday, created lots of chances and could have scored three or four.
Midfield absences
"To be honest, I'm very pleased with the way we are playing. Of course, there are times when you could do better but when you are without two first-choice central midfielders it is a hard situation for any side," added Mancini, referring to the continued absence through injury of Esteban Cambiasso and Patrick Vieira's suspension for the 2-0 home loss to FC Bayern München. Fabio Grosso and Zlatan Ibrahimović were sent off in that match and miss out this time, although Hernán Crespo is in contention after a speedy recovery from a thigh strain.
'Belief'
Spartak - "an excellent, physically strong side who attack at great pace" according to Mancini - are one point ahead of Inter after following up a 4-0 defeat at Bayern with a 1-1 draw against Sporting Clube de Portugal, yet consider themselves hard done to. "We know we are in a tough group but we played well in the first half against Bayern and deserved more than a point against Sporting," said Spartak's former Reggina Calcio midfielder Mozart. "Wednesday will be hard but we have belief. We must try to attack and not just defend. Who knows? We might even win."
'Golden opportunity'
His coach Vladimir Fedotov agreed that it was important for the Muscovites not to be cowed by Inter's all-star cast. "Just a glance at the names and you know that Inter are a team that needs no introduction, but we also have our strengths. We haven't been in the UEFA Champions League for four years so this is a golden opportunity for us to show what we can do and progress in this competition."
Duo in doubt
Fedotov has slight concerns over Austria defender Martin Stranzl, who sat out Saturday's 1-0 home win against FC Zenit St. Petersburg with flu, and Radoslav Kováč, although the Czech midfielder is expected to start. Vladimir Bystrov, a former Zenit winger, scored the weekend winner in added time to leave Spartak two points behind leaders PFC CSKA Moskova with seven Premier-Liga matches remaining.
Probable teams
Inter: Júlio César; Maicon, Marco Materazzi, Iván Córdoba, Javier Zanetti; Luís Figo, Patrick Vieira, Olivier Dacourt, Dejan Stanković; Julio Cruz, Adriano.
Spartak: Wojciech Kowalewski; Roman Shishkin, Geder, Martin Jiránek, Clemente Rodríguez; Vladimir Bystrov, Mozart, Radoslav Kováč, Yegor Titov, Denis Boyarintsev; Roman Pavlyuchenko.
Mancini sets target as Spartak arrive
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
<!-- /noindex -->Ahead of FC Spartak Moskva's arrival at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday, FC Internazionale Milano coach Roberto Mancini defended his side against the growing hysteria surrounding the Nerazzurri's stuttering quest for UEFA Champions League glory.
Mixed form
Inter needed to call on all their reserves to come from behind to beat promoted Calcio Catania 2-1 on Sunday, a victory which takes them two points clear at the Serie A summit after six matches. Their European form is another matter entirely, back-to-back defeats leaving them at the foot of Group B with four games to play. "I think ten points from those games will be enough to qualify," Mancini said. "The main thing is that we win against Spartak. We hope we'll do so in style but you can't always guarantee that. If we win, everything will return to normal. We were much better in the second half on Sunday, created lots of chances and could have scored three or four.
Midfield absences
"To be honest, I'm very pleased with the way we are playing. Of course, there are times when you could do better but when you are without two first-choice central midfielders it is a hard situation for any side," added Mancini, referring to the continued absence through injury of Esteban Cambiasso and Patrick Vieira's suspension for the 2-0 home loss to FC Bayern München. Fabio Grosso and Zlatan Ibrahimović were sent off in that match and miss out this time, although Hernán Crespo is in contention after a speedy recovery from a thigh strain.
'Belief'
Spartak - "an excellent, physically strong side who attack at great pace" according to Mancini - are one point ahead of Inter after following up a 4-0 defeat at Bayern with a 1-1 draw against Sporting Clube de Portugal, yet consider themselves hard done to. "We know we are in a tough group but we played well in the first half against Bayern and deserved more than a point against Sporting," said Spartak's former Reggina Calcio midfielder Mozart. "Wednesday will be hard but we have belief. We must try to attack and not just defend. Who knows? We might even win."
'Golden opportunity'
His coach Vladimir Fedotov agreed that it was important for the Muscovites not to be cowed by Inter's all-star cast. "Just a glance at the names and you know that Inter are a team that needs no introduction, but we also have our strengths. We haven't been in the UEFA Champions League for four years so this is a golden opportunity for us to show what we can do and progress in this competition."
Duo in doubt
Fedotov has slight concerns over Austria defender Martin Stranzl, who sat out Saturday's 1-0 home win against FC Zenit St. Petersburg with flu, and Radoslav Kováč, although the Czech midfielder is expected to start. Vladimir Bystrov, a former Zenit winger, scored the weekend winner in added time to leave Spartak two points behind leaders PFC CSKA Moskova with seven Premier-Liga matches remaining.
Probable teams
Inter: Júlio César; Maicon, Marco Materazzi, Iván Córdoba, Javier Zanetti; Luís Figo, Patrick Vieira, Olivier Dacourt, Dejan Stanković; Julio Cruz, Adriano.
Spartak: Wojciech Kowalewski; Roman Shishkin, Geder, Martin Jiránek, Clemente Rodríguez; Vladimir Bystrov, Mozart, Radoslav Kováč, Yegor Titov, Denis Boyarintsev; Roman Pavlyuchenko.
UEFA.COM Preview - Valencia vs. Shakhtar Donetsk
Sánchez Flores calls for restored order
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450274,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->Valencia CF coach Quique Sánchez Flores is demanding his team shake off their inconsistency and impose themselves on an FC Shakhtar Donetsk side who have not won in their last seven UEFA Champions League away matches when the clubs meet in Group D.
Valuable victory
An abject Valencia were beaten 3-2 at RC Celta de Vigo at the weekend and Sánchez Flores says he will not tolerate more of the same against Shakhtar at the Mestalla, despite the absence of Vicente Rodríguez with a sprained ankle. "We deserve the favourites' tag but we have to live up to expectations," he warned. "I think victory would pretty much guarantee our progress and we are certainly strong enough to impose ourselves on Shakhtar. We must return to good habits though, and work hard in order to register that victory because we were not ourselves at the weekend."
'Disciplined play'
Valencia have had no problem being themselves in the UEFA Champions League this term, kicking off with back-to-back triumphs against Olympiacos CFP and AS Roma, yet Sánchez Flores is keen to caution against complacency. "I've warned my players that I want a return to careful, composed and disciplined possession play," he said. "I don't want open, end-to-end games which can be won or lost on a moment of luck. The fans may like that kind of game but I don't."
Travel woes
Despite the air of determination, Sánchez Flores is reportedly toying with the idea of resting Roberto Ayala and David Villa, although his Shakhtar counterpart Mircea Lucescu insists that whatever Valencia team takes to the field will provide a stiff test for his men. "They are powerful, they have superb players on the bench and in my opinion Valencia are potential finalists and perhaps even winners of the Champions League," said the Romanian. "We have a very young side and this is like an apprenticeship at the moment."
'Superb players'
Lucescu's charges twice came from behind to pick up their first point of the campaign against Olympiacos in Donetsk on Matchday 2 but they have an unenviable record away from home in this tournament, having failed to win in seven previous away trips, conceding 23 goals. The 4-0 defeat at Roma on Matchday 1 certainly provided a steep learning curve although Lucescu, who is without key creative forces Zvonimir Vukić and Elano Blumer, is adamant there were positives.
Reason for optimism
"In our defeat against Roma we kept them at bay for the majority of the match and a similar display of concentration here will suit me," he said. "I think Valencia are the best team in Spain with the single exception of last Sunday's game. Then I saw a totally different side to the one that played so well in Athens and then beat Roma." This at least provides hope for his young side.
Probable teams
Valencia: Santiago Cañizares; Luis Miguel, David Navarro, Raúl Albiol, Emiliano Moretti; Joaquín Sánchez, David Albelda, Edu, Jaime Gavilán; Fernando Morientes, David Silva.
Shakhtar: Stipe Pletikosa; Viacheslav Sviderskiy, Dmytro Chygrynskiy, Mariusz Lewandowski, Ravzan Rat; Fernandinho, Tomáš Hübschman, Anatoliy Tymoschuk, Matuzalem; Ciprian Marica, Brandão.
Sánchez Flores calls for restored order
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450274,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->Valencia CF coach Quique Sánchez Flores is demanding his team shake off their inconsistency and impose themselves on an FC Shakhtar Donetsk side who have not won in their last seven UEFA Champions League away matches when the clubs meet in Group D.
Valuable victory
An abject Valencia were beaten 3-2 at RC Celta de Vigo at the weekend and Sánchez Flores says he will not tolerate more of the same against Shakhtar at the Mestalla, despite the absence of Vicente Rodríguez with a sprained ankle. "We deserve the favourites' tag but we have to live up to expectations," he warned. "I think victory would pretty much guarantee our progress and we are certainly strong enough to impose ourselves on Shakhtar. We must return to good habits though, and work hard in order to register that victory because we were not ourselves at the weekend."
'Disciplined play'
Valencia have had no problem being themselves in the UEFA Champions League this term, kicking off with back-to-back triumphs against Olympiacos CFP and AS Roma, yet Sánchez Flores is keen to caution against complacency. "I've warned my players that I want a return to careful, composed and disciplined possession play," he said. "I don't want open, end-to-end games which can be won or lost on a moment of luck. The fans may like that kind of game but I don't."
Travel woes
Despite the air of determination, Sánchez Flores is reportedly toying with the idea of resting Roberto Ayala and David Villa, although his Shakhtar counterpart Mircea Lucescu insists that whatever Valencia team takes to the field will provide a stiff test for his men. "They are powerful, they have superb players on the bench and in my opinion Valencia are potential finalists and perhaps even winners of the Champions League," said the Romanian. "We have a very young side and this is like an apprenticeship at the moment."
'Superb players'
Lucescu's charges twice came from behind to pick up their first point of the campaign against Olympiacos in Donetsk on Matchday 2 but they have an unenviable record away from home in this tournament, having failed to win in seven previous away trips, conceding 23 goals. The 4-0 defeat at Roma on Matchday 1 certainly provided a steep learning curve although Lucescu, who is without key creative forces Zvonimir Vukić and Elano Blumer, is adamant there were positives.
Reason for optimism
"In our defeat against Roma we kept them at bay for the majority of the match and a similar display of concentration here will suit me," he said. "I think Valencia are the best team in Spain with the single exception of last Sunday's game. Then I saw a totally different side to the one that played so well in Athens and then beat Roma." This at least provides hope for his young side.
Probable teams
Valencia: Santiago Cañizares; Luis Miguel, David Navarro, Raúl Albiol, Emiliano Moretti; Joaquín Sánchez, David Albelda, Edu, Jaime Gavilán; Fernando Morientes, David Silva.
Shakhtar: Stipe Pletikosa; Viacheslav Sviderskiy, Dmytro Chygrynskiy, Mariusz Lewandowski, Ravzan Rat; Fernandinho, Tomáš Hübschman, Anatoliy Tymoschuk, Matuzalem; Ciprian Marica, Brandão.
As Hooligans said, Valencia seem to be the best pick of the three matches you mentioned UT-Longhorn.
I've got Inter, Valencia, Werder in a 5team ML parlay. I believe they'll all win, but Valencia looks like the best bet due to a stronger team with a lack of injuries, and two in-form strikers in Villa and Morientes.
Also, the UEFA.com article highlights this about their opponents:
I've got Inter, Valencia, Werder in a 5team ML parlay. I believe they'll all win, but Valencia looks like the best bet due to a stronger team with a lack of injuries, and two in-form strikers in Villa and Morientes.
Also, the UEFA.com article highlights this about their opponents:
the mad actuarian said:
As you and Markie have said, it may be best to stay away from the Roma match.
I think you've got a good bet on the over 2.5. I understand your concerns but Valencia will dominate the match and create a lot of chances. I think they'll bounce back really well from a poor loss on the weekend.
Good luck!:toast:
UEFA.COM Preview - Bordeaux vs. Liverpool
Bordeaux bank on 'brave' approach
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450272,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->With only one point and no goals to show for their opening two UEFA Champions League Group C games, FC Girondins de Bordeaux know they must get something from Wednesday's encounter with Liverpool FC to stand a realistic chance of progressing to the knockout stage.
Taking risks
The French side drew 0-0 at Galatasaray SK on Matchday 1 before losing at home to PSV Eindhoven three weeks ago, and coach Ricardo Gomes acknowledges those results will force a more adventurous approach against Liverpool. "We'll be taking risks inasmuch as we really want to impose ourselves on Liverpool," he said. "We didn't make the most of our chances against PSV and didn't give a good account of ourselves. We have to do better this time. It is extremely important for us to take all three points."
Tactical switch
Ricardo is without former Liverpool midfielder Vladimír Šmicer as well as Stéphane Dalmat, who miss out with thigh injuries, while centre-back Marc Planus has not played since the trip to Istanbul due to a foot problem. Bordeaux adopted a new midfield diamond formation for Saturday's league visit of AS Monaco FC, and the resulting 1-0 victory could prompt the coach to continue with Johan Micoud just behind the strikers. Rio Antonio Mavuba should come in on the left of midfield and defender Fernando Menegazzo is also set to start. "We have to be positive," Ricardo said. "A team that doubts is a team that's fragile."
'Strong and experienced'
The significance of Steven Gerrard's absence - the Liverpool captain has remained in England after tweaking a hamstring during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers FC - was played down by the coach. "Liverpool are strong and experienced, and have plenty of quality to draft into midfield," Ricardo said. "I've studied them closely over the past few weeks. Without Gerrard they will still be hard to beat."
Onus on Bordeaux
With undefeated Liverpool leading the section on four points, the onus is on the hosts to take the initiative. "We may get a few more opportunities because Bordeaux have to bring the game to us," said Reds midfielder Boudewijn Zenden, whose presence at the press conference hinted that he may be asked to deputise for the captain in central midfield, with the influential Mohamed Sissoko again likely to be sidelined with an ankle injury.
Fitness doubts
A similar problem makes Dutch international striker Dirk Kuyt an improbable starter, while Gerrard, Robbie Fowler and Daniel Agger are definitely out. Rafael Benítez's side are without an away win in all competitions this term, but the Spaniard is not overly concerned, explaining: "I'm happy with the work-rate and commitment of my players. We just have to put away more chances. We always go out with the intention of winning." His team will have the opportunity to prove that at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.
Probable teams
Bordeaux: Ulrich Ramé; Franck Jurietti, Henrique, David Jemmali, Florian Marange; Geraldo Mauricio Wendel, Fernando Menegazzo, Johan Micoud, Rio Antonio Mavuba; Lilian Laslandes, Jean-Claude Darcheville.
Liverpool: Pepe Reina; Steve Finnan, Sami Hyypiä, Jamie Carragher, John Arne Riise; Luis García, Boudewijn Zenden, Xabi Alonso, Jermaine Pennant; Peter Crouch, Craig Bellamy.
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450272,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->With only one point and no goals to show for their opening two UEFA Champions League Group C games, FC Girondins de Bordeaux know they must get something from Wednesday's encounter with Liverpool FC to stand a realistic chance of progressing to the knockout stage.
Taking risks
The French side drew 0-0 at Galatasaray SK on Matchday 1 before losing at home to PSV Eindhoven three weeks ago, and coach Ricardo Gomes acknowledges those results will force a more adventurous approach against Liverpool. "We'll be taking risks inasmuch as we really want to impose ourselves on Liverpool," he said. "We didn't make the most of our chances against PSV and didn't give a good account of ourselves. We have to do better this time. It is extremely important for us to take all three points."
Tactical switch
Ricardo is without former Liverpool midfielder Vladimír Šmicer as well as Stéphane Dalmat, who miss out with thigh injuries, while centre-back Marc Planus has not played since the trip to Istanbul due to a foot problem. Bordeaux adopted a new midfield diamond formation for Saturday's league visit of AS Monaco FC, and the resulting 1-0 victory could prompt the coach to continue with Johan Micoud just behind the strikers. Rio Antonio Mavuba should come in on the left of midfield and defender Fernando Menegazzo is also set to start. "We have to be positive," Ricardo said. "A team that doubts is a team that's fragile."
'Strong and experienced'
The significance of Steven Gerrard's absence - the Liverpool captain has remained in England after tweaking a hamstring during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers FC - was played down by the coach. "Liverpool are strong and experienced, and have plenty of quality to draft into midfield," Ricardo said. "I've studied them closely over the past few weeks. Without Gerrard they will still be hard to beat."
Onus on Bordeaux
With undefeated Liverpool leading the section on four points, the onus is on the hosts to take the initiative. "We may get a few more opportunities because Bordeaux have to bring the game to us," said Reds midfielder Boudewijn Zenden, whose presence at the press conference hinted that he may be asked to deputise for the captain in central midfield, with the influential Mohamed Sissoko again likely to be sidelined with an ankle injury.
Fitness doubts
A similar problem makes Dutch international striker Dirk Kuyt an improbable starter, while Gerrard, Robbie Fowler and Daniel Agger are definitely out. Rafael Benítez's side are without an away win in all competitions this term, but the Spaniard is not overly concerned, explaining: "I'm happy with the work-rate and commitment of my players. We just have to put away more chances. We always go out with the intention of winning." His team will have the opportunity to prove that at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.
Probable teams
Bordeaux: Ulrich Ramé; Franck Jurietti, Henrique, David Jemmali, Florian Marange; Geraldo Mauricio Wendel, Fernando Menegazzo, Johan Micoud, Rio Antonio Mavuba; Lilian Laslandes, Jean-Claude Darcheville.
Liverpool: Pepe Reina; Steve Finnan, Sami Hyypiä, Jamie Carragher, John Arne Riise; Luis García, Boudewijn Zenden, Xabi Alonso, Jermaine Pennant; Peter Crouch, Craig Bellamy.
UEFA.COM Preview - Olympiacos vs. Roma
Sollied seeks home comfort
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450275,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->Olympiacos CFP coach Trond Sollied hopes to make home advantage count as his side welcome AS Roma to Athens for the first of two back-to-back UEFA Champions League Group D matches against the Italian club.
Away troubles
After his team's 2-2 draw at FC Shakhtar Donetsk three weeks ago and an opening-night 4-2 home reverse against Valencia CF, Sollied has described the meeting with Luciano Spalletti's Roma as Olympiacos's "most important game so far". Given Olympiacos's poor away record - they have never won in 29 matches on the road in the competition - the importance of a home victory is not lost on Sollied, who is also seeking a slice of birthday luck on the day his son turns four.
Birthday bonus
"We are playing our most important Champions League game so far," said Sollied. "We know that if we get a good result everything is open, and we also know that because we will meet Roma twice in a row, a draw could also be a good result. But normally we have to win at home and that is what we will try to do. In these games you also need a little luck and since my son is four tomorrow, I hope this is a good omen for us."
League defeat
Olympiacos play Roma on the back of a 3-1 friendly win against second division Levadiakos FC as the Superleague was suspended for the weekend due to local elections. By contrast, Roma are reeling from a 1-0 defeat at Reggina Calcio. According to Sollied, not too much should be read into that Serie A setback. "Roma have a good team who lost over the weekend," Sollied said. "It doesn't mean anything because the Champions League is the Champions League and it's totally different from the domestic championship."
Rome tragedy
Roma go into the game against the backdrop of Tuesday's train crash in the Italian capital which claimed the lives of two people and left more than 50 injured. Coach Spalletti could not confirm whether his players would wear black armbands out of respect for the victims, but said: "We feel sympathy for the victims and we will try to help the mood with a good result."
Weakened tean
The visitors, three points behind group leaders Valencia with one win to their name, are looking to avoid a fifth successive away defeat in the UEFA Champions League. However, they are without injured trio Vincenzo Montella, Mancini and Philippe Mexes while forward David Pizarro is absent for personal reasons. Those problems were compounded when Matteo Ferrari and Francesco Totti sustained thigh injuries in training, with the defender's knock regarded as the more serious of the two.
High hopes
"We face a difficult game but I think my players will be serious in their approach to get a positive result," Spalletti said. "The loss to Reggina has had a good effect on us because we didn't play badly and we have learnt something. Our fans have high expectations of us and I think we can match them here."
Probable teams
Olympiacos: Antonios Nikopolidis; Christos Patsatzoglou, Georgios Anatolakis, Abdeslam Ouaddou, Dider Domi; Nery Alberto Castillo, Ieroklis Stoltidis, Pantelis Kafes, Predrag Djordjevic; Rivaldo, Michalis Konstantinou.
Roma: Doni; Christian Panucci, Cristian Chivu, Matteo Ferrari, Max Tonetto; Simone Perrotta, Daniele De Rossi, Alberto Aquilani, Aleandro Rosi, Taddei; Francesco Totti.
Sollied seeks home comfort
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450275,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->Olympiacos CFP coach Trond Sollied hopes to make home advantage count as his side welcome AS Roma to Athens for the first of two back-to-back UEFA Champions League Group D matches against the Italian club.
Away troubles
After his team's 2-2 draw at FC Shakhtar Donetsk three weeks ago and an opening-night 4-2 home reverse against Valencia CF, Sollied has described the meeting with Luciano Spalletti's Roma as Olympiacos's "most important game so far". Given Olympiacos's poor away record - they have never won in 29 matches on the road in the competition - the importance of a home victory is not lost on Sollied, who is also seeking a slice of birthday luck on the day his son turns four.
Birthday bonus
"We are playing our most important Champions League game so far," said Sollied. "We know that if we get a good result everything is open, and we also know that because we will meet Roma twice in a row, a draw could also be a good result. But normally we have to win at home and that is what we will try to do. In these games you also need a little luck and since my son is four tomorrow, I hope this is a good omen for us."
League defeat
Olympiacos play Roma on the back of a 3-1 friendly win against second division Levadiakos FC as the Superleague was suspended for the weekend due to local elections. By contrast, Roma are reeling from a 1-0 defeat at Reggina Calcio. According to Sollied, not too much should be read into that Serie A setback. "Roma have a good team who lost over the weekend," Sollied said. "It doesn't mean anything because the Champions League is the Champions League and it's totally different from the domestic championship."
Rome tragedy
Roma go into the game against the backdrop of Tuesday's train crash in the Italian capital which claimed the lives of two people and left more than 50 injured. Coach Spalletti could not confirm whether his players would wear black armbands out of respect for the victims, but said: "We feel sympathy for the victims and we will try to help the mood with a good result."
Weakened tean
The visitors, three points behind group leaders Valencia with one win to their name, are looking to avoid a fifth successive away defeat in the UEFA Champions League. However, they are without injured trio Vincenzo Montella, Mancini and Philippe Mexes while forward David Pizarro is absent for personal reasons. Those problems were compounded when Matteo Ferrari and Francesco Totti sustained thigh injuries in training, with the defender's knock regarded as the more serious of the two.
High hopes
"We face a difficult game but I think my players will be serious in their approach to get a positive result," Spalletti said. "The loss to Reggina has had a good effect on us because we didn't play badly and we have learnt something. Our fans have high expectations of us and I think we can match them here."
Probable teams
Olympiacos: Antonios Nikopolidis; Christos Patsatzoglou, Georgios Anatolakis, Abdeslam Ouaddou, Dider Domi; Nery Alberto Castillo, Ieroklis Stoltidis, Pantelis Kafes, Predrag Djordjevic; Rivaldo, Michalis Konstantinou.
Roma: Doni; Christian Panucci, Cristian Chivu, Matteo Ferrari, Max Tonetto; Simone Perrotta, Daniele De Rossi, Alberto Aquilani, Aleandro Rosi, Taddei; Francesco Totti.
UEFA.COM Preview - THE BIG ONE - CHELSEA vs. BARCELONA
Mourinho hopes for Barça spectacle
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450269,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->José Mourinho believes a UEFA Champions League group-stage confrontation between Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona will allow two great sides to relax more and he expects a better spectacle than their previous meetings when the knockout format added to the intensity of the occasion.
Knock-out blows
Both Group A rivals have landed a knockout blow on the other in the last two seasons - Barcelona making progress in the round of 16 in February after gaining a 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea holding sway the previous year as they overturned a 2-1 loss in Spain to win 4-2 on their own ground. This time defeat will not spell the end of UEFA Champions League ambitions for another season and with Werder Bremen and PFC Levski Sofia lagging behind, the Group A heavyweights are favoured to go through.
'Great football'
"Because this is a game in the group stage it provides the opportunity to see great football, calm football," said Mourinho. "There is more chance for the quality to shine through because the teams are not fearful of the situation if they lose. I also hope to see eleven men finish the game on each side." Chelsea are still reeling from the head injuries that put both their senior goalkeepers Petr Čech and Carlo Cudicini in hospital following Saturday's 1-0 win at Reading FC. Čech is the more seriously injured after suffering a depressed fracture of the skull but Cudicini is also unable to face the reigning champions after he was concussed in a collision having replaced the Czech No1.
Opportunity knocks
So opportunity knocks for Chelsea's third-choice keeper, Hilário, a 30-year-old Portuguese who was signed from CD Nacional in the summer. He shipped four goals as FC Porto lost Manchester United FC in 1996/97 but Mourinho has no fears about his ability to handle the big occasion. "He's not a kid, he's 30 years old and he's played in the Champions League before. I trust him and the team trusts him." There are fitness doubts concerning Claude Makelele, Ashley Cole and Didier Drogba but all three should be available.
Gudjohnsen returns
Since their 1-1 draw in Bremen on Matchday 2, Barça have lost Samuel Eto'o to a long-term knee injury and former Chelsea forward Eidur Gudjohnsen looks certain to win a starting place on his return to Stamford Bridge. Elsewhere, full back Juliano Belletti is out with a shoulder injury. Coach Frank Rijkaard said that if there was less tension around the game it was possibly because of the two injured goalkeepers. "That may be why things are a bit more peaceful than in the past, possibly that's why the Chelsea people are calmer than before," he said.
No special tactics
"They are a great club with wonderful players to choose from. Of course it's not easy for them to lose Petr Čech and Carlo Cudicini but other people have their own qualities and can show them on the pitch. We don't have specific tactics to take advantage of the situation."
Probable teams
Chelsea: Hilário; Paulo Ferreira, John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, Ashley Cole; Michael Essien, Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard, Arjen Robben; Andriy Shevchenko, Didier Drogba.
Barcelona: Víctor Valdés; Gianluca Zambrotta, Carles Puyol, Rafael Márquez, Giovanni van Bronckhorst; Xavi Hernández, Edmílson, Deco; Lionel Messi, Eidur Gudjohnsen, Ronaldinho.
Mourinho hopes for Barça spectacle
Wednesday, 18 October 2006
http://www.uefa.com/news/newsId=450269,printer.htmx <!-- /noindex -->José Mourinho believes a UEFA Champions League group-stage confrontation between Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona will allow two great sides to relax more and he expects a better spectacle than their previous meetings when the knockout format added to the intensity of the occasion.
Knock-out blows
Both Group A rivals have landed a knockout blow on the other in the last two seasons - Barcelona making progress in the round of 16 in February after gaining a 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea holding sway the previous year as they overturned a 2-1 loss in Spain to win 4-2 on their own ground. This time defeat will not spell the end of UEFA Champions League ambitions for another season and with Werder Bremen and PFC Levski Sofia lagging behind, the Group A heavyweights are favoured to go through.
'Great football'
"Because this is a game in the group stage it provides the opportunity to see great football, calm football," said Mourinho. "There is more chance for the quality to shine through because the teams are not fearful of the situation if they lose. I also hope to see eleven men finish the game on each side." Chelsea are still reeling from the head injuries that put both their senior goalkeepers Petr Čech and Carlo Cudicini in hospital following Saturday's 1-0 win at Reading FC. Čech is the more seriously injured after suffering a depressed fracture of the skull but Cudicini is also unable to face the reigning champions after he was concussed in a collision having replaced the Czech No1.
Opportunity knocks
So opportunity knocks for Chelsea's third-choice keeper, Hilário, a 30-year-old Portuguese who was signed from CD Nacional in the summer. He shipped four goals as FC Porto lost Manchester United FC in 1996/97 but Mourinho has no fears about his ability to handle the big occasion. "He's not a kid, he's 30 years old and he's played in the Champions League before. I trust him and the team trusts him." There are fitness doubts concerning Claude Makelele, Ashley Cole and Didier Drogba but all three should be available.
Gudjohnsen returns
Since their 1-1 draw in Bremen on Matchday 2, Barça have lost Samuel Eto'o to a long-term knee injury and former Chelsea forward Eidur Gudjohnsen looks certain to win a starting place on his return to Stamford Bridge. Elsewhere, full back Juliano Belletti is out with a shoulder injury. Coach Frank Rijkaard said that if there was less tension around the game it was possibly because of the two injured goalkeepers. "That may be why things are a bit more peaceful than in the past, possibly that's why the Chelsea people are calmer than before," he said.
No special tactics
"They are a great club with wonderful players to choose from. Of course it's not easy for them to lose Petr Čech and Carlo Cudicini but other people have their own qualities and can show them on the pitch. We don't have specific tactics to take advantage of the situation."
Probable teams
Chelsea: Hilário; Paulo Ferreira, John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, Ashley Cole; Michael Essien, Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard, Arjen Robben; Andriy Shevchenko, Didier Drogba.
Barcelona: Víctor Valdés; Gianluca Zambrotta, Carles Puyol, Rafael Márquez, Giovanni van Bronckhorst; Xavi Hernández, Edmílson, Deco; Lionel Messi, Eidur Gudjohnsen, Ronaldinho.
I already have my BARCELONA (+0.5) -150 bet in since Monday. This is my biggest wager of the day!
I am also holding a moneyline parlay with VALENCIA and WERDER BREMEN at -200.
The UNDER for BORDEAUX vs. LIVERPOOL is very tempting but I think I will just sit on these 2 wagers.
Let's have another great day. :toast:
I am also holding a moneyline parlay with VALENCIA and WERDER BREMEN at -200.
The UNDER for BORDEAUX vs. LIVERPOOL is very tempting but I think I will just sit on these 2 wagers.
Let's have another great day. :toast:
Markie Mark said:
The world is, and will be betting the bordeaux under:
(under 2.5 goals -200)
Now you know why the books make money...It's spots like these
that usually end the otherway, OVER. You know, as I expect to
lose some money today, I will pluck 1.5 units on the over.
(My other losers are posted in quantum's thread):grandmais
