Big Guns Draw Each Other In Last 16

Manchester United drew Spanish giants Real Madrid today in the last 16 of the Champions League. With the prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo going back to his old stomping ground, anticipation between both sets of fans is unbearable.

Although a fixture more suited for a major final, with Real Madrid being pipped to first position by Borussia Dortmund, a difficult tie was always on the cards for the reigning Spanish champions.

Other ties include AC Milan v Barcelona and Bayern Munich versus a very inconsistent Arsenal side. Without making predictions too early, I see Barcelona and Bayern making a rather easy progression through to the semi final stage.

So as Cristiano Ronaldo tucks himself in to bed tonight, I'm sure his dreams will consist of a goal at the Theatre of Dreams but more importantly a win for his side.

What are your predictions for any of the fixtures mentioned? How do you think Ronaldo will feel about the whole occasion?

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Toss Of A Coin Overshadows Epic Encounter

As Rio Ferdinand got suited up for the X Factor final, just a few hours previous, he was wiping the blood from his eye as a crazed Manchester City fan threw a coin as he saw his side lose out to local rivals Manchester United.

It was an enthralling match, especially the second half as City had to overturn a two goal deficit. Carlos Tevez was yet again the difference for City after a disappointing display by Mario Balotelli.

Just as it looked set for another magical moment from Aguero, van Persie stole the headlines as he slotted home a free kick just outside the penalty area. A deflected shot off a cowardly Samir Nasri, was enough to beat Joe Hart.

As the euphoric United players joined the equally euphoric United fans in celebration, a few City fans decided to take matters in to there own hands and propelled coins in the direction of the United players, one of which hit Rio Ferdinand. Luckily no serious damage was done to Ferdinand's eye.

Although the passion of the fans is what we all like to see, the throwing of missiles such a coins is simply not and a lot will be asked of the FA to improve player protection.

What are your views on this topic? What are our thoughts on the game itself?

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City Crash Out Of Europe

Having been unable to get the result they needed against Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City now have to settle for no midweek football after Ajax claimed third spot. 

Although the caliber of the group was astounding, I feel City would have struggled to beat Burnley, never mind Borussia Dortmund with some of the performances they put in.

As per usual in this Champions League campaign, City really struggled to take the game into their own hands and Dortmund never looked threatened. Carlos Tevez had bright spells and was the stand out player for the Blues with no one else really stepping up to the plate.

Borussia Dortmund, even with a weakened side, looked comfortable and further showed why they are many people's pick to get their hands on the trophy in May 2013.

Man City now turn their attention to Sunday as they face league and local rivals, Manchester United. With the famous 1-6 victory still fresh in the memory of the Eastlands faithful, Kompany and co. look to add more memories come Sunday.

Whats your view on City's Champions League display? Predictions for Sunday's Manchester Derby?

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Wenger Adamant Walcott Will Stay

Arsene Wenger has hit out today insisting Theo Walcott will remain at Arsenal despite constant rumors suggesting a move away in January is on the cards. Arsenal take the risk of selling Walcott, 23, for nothing in the summer as his contract is due to run out.

Contract talks have been held up, leaving, I could imagine, many Arsenal fans worried. Although rather inconsistent for me, he is a threat on any given day if he just puts his head down and gets the bounce of the ball.

Reports suggest though that Walcott had rejected a 5 year deal worth £75,000 a week. Walcott is believed to rest his future on whether or not he plays in a striking role.

I think Arsenal should do just about anything to keep Walcott as long as its within reason. I say this because it's obvious he's improving technically as a footballer and if you add that to the bundles of pace he has the results are frightening.

So what do you think? Is Walcott making a bigger hassle than he's actually worth?

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Messi Still 'Hurt' Over Penalty Miss

Lionel Messi has today admitted he is still hurt over his penalty miss over Chelsea in April which sent Spanish giants Barcelona crashing out of the Champions League. 

Although, due to away goals, Barcelona would still have been knocked out, it was because of Messi's miss that Barcelona were scrambling to get the ball in the net with minutes to go leaving Torres with acres of space to put the ball past Victor Valdes.

Last season was a poor one by Barcelona standards as fans have become accustomed to seeing their side win countless trophies and scoring goals for fun. But with Real Madrid getting the better of them in the league, their Copa del Rey victory was the only reward to show for their efforts.

Lionel Messi though has said that he 'hopes we can get back to winning ways' and with the introduction of some new quality players such as Jordi Alba who impressed at this Summer's European Championships, there is no reason the Nou Camp faithful won't see the likes of Messi and his team mates lifting up silverware come the end of next season.

So do you think Barcelona will come back stronger or will Real Madrid just have too much for them?

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