Midweek Review (2 May 2007)

AC Milan vs Manchester United

Champions League Semi Final 2nd Leg

Man United have not lost an European tie after winning the first leg since 1985 and have never done so under Fergie.

- Gary, 1/5/07

Last match got all kind of element in it. Shock, despair, relieved and overjoyed at the final whistle. But somehow this match will only remembered two names, Phil Neville for scoring an own goal and Wayne Rooney to score and bring Man United back into the title race. Despite a makeshift defence, i cant blame Man United for the 2 conceded goals. One was a deflection, another was a wonder strike.

Chelsea match against Bolton not only give Man United with 5 points clear with 3 matches remaining, they literally hand Man United the title on a platter.

Despite taking a slim lead to Milan, I am optimistic after the first leg due to some facts.

•Man United have not lost an European tie after winning the first leg since 1985 and have never done so under Fergie.
•Man United are one win away for a century wins in the European Cup including qualifying.
•Milan have only won 3 out of 6 times when faced first leg deficit. The last time was in 1968.

For the game against Milan, latest news is that Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have travelled along with their team mates to Italy. But three men may missed the final with one suspension away – Ronaldo, Heinze and Paul Scholes, who famously missed the final in 1999.

Like what Jay have say, Milan might have a problem towards the end of the match as Man United attackers are young and fast, compare to Milan’s defenders are old, lack of speed but are experienced in reading the game and sniffing out the dangers.

Milan’s danger man will be Kaka. Gabriel Heinze was able to make him quiet in the first leg. But two goals from Kaka was due to lack of communication between the 4 defenders. Evra knock onto Heinze when Kaka scored the second. With 2nd leg in Italy, Man United will not have Gary Neville, Park and Silvestre. Look like Man United will have to do with Darren Fletcher, Wes Brown, Gabriel Heinze and don’t be surprised to see this, Kieran Richardson.

Milan will be without Paolo Maldini. Gattuso is fit again to play in the second leg.

Odds and Analysis: With 0.25 handicap at 1.95, I foresee a high-scoring draw. Man United will go through to the final.

Disclaimer: The above views are purely my own two-cents' worth. In other words, I cannot and will not guarantee that my predictions are accurate. If you want to bet on the game, do so at your own risk. Also, please bet responsibly and within your means regardless of how "sure thing" that game may appear to be. As the old saying goes, "The Ball Is Round". Good luck.