Midweek Outlook (29 Apr 2008)

Manchester United vs Barcelona

"What are the chances of winning the European Cup and qualify automatically for the group stages next season?"

-Gary, 29 April 2008

Before the last weekend deciding match was underway, i have a chat with Voxeros. He say that with the odds at 1.8, Man Utd is playing for a draw. He get it correctly but Chelsea have other ideas. Man Utd aiming for a draw and Fergie rests key players for the crunch match against Barcelona. Result didnt go as planned. Look like the next 2 matches will be the deciding factor. West Ham and Wigan. And i just saw the odds for West Ham game. It was a "WTF moment" for me. Look like Man Utd have to work extra hard for these 3 matches including Barcelona.

Both Man Utd and Barcelona lose during the weekend. Both of them rest their key players. Both of them are focus on this match rather than the weekend matches.

One question i would like to post to Barcelona is, "What are the chances of winning the European Cup and qualify automatically for the group stages next season?" 25%? 50? 75%? By tomorrow morning, we will know the answer. Barcelona last 32 matches in European stage, they lost twice to Premier League oppositions - Chelsea and Liverpool. Overall Barcelona have lose 11 and won 6 of 23 visits to England.

With Man Utd still defending a home record that lasts from 2006, it doesnt look good at all as Man Utd does not win at home when they return from a goalless draw. Yet Man Utd have a strong home record against Spanish teams. Pengz.

Man Utd Team News: Rooney and Vidic are doubtful for the match. I think Fergie will play them.

Barcelona Team News: Ronaldinho is still injured. Carlos Puyol is back from suspension.

Odds and Analysis: Man Utd giving 0.5 handicap. I think it will be a goalless draw once again and will be decided by penalties. Take Barcelona for the handicap.

Disclaimer: This review is entirely on my own views and opinion. I didn’t point a gun at you to ask you to follow. If you want to bet on this game, do so at your own risk. Pls bet within limits. Good luck.