Manchester vs. Barcelona

Wednesday, May 27, 2009, will be a day to remember for soccer fans everywhere. Enthusiasts wait all year for this epic day; the European Union Football Club (EUFC) finals. This year, England’s best, Manchester United, will be facing off against Spain’s top team, Barcelona, in an intense display of “fluid and beautiful football.”
Many people believe that who wins will be decided by the team managers: Manchester United’s Sir Alec Ferguson and Barcelona’s Pep Guardiola. They think that the strategies outlined by these two important figures will be the determining factor. I, however, agree with the author of the article and believe that “it will be the players that will matter most.” A coach can outline as many strategies as he likes, but if the players cannot execute, it will not matter. Manchester may have the upper hand when it comes to execution because they have the dreaded Ronaldo, “this year’s Best Soccer Player.”
Many discussions have sprung up on the subject of the Manchester defense versus the Barcelona offense. Both teams are known for these aspects of the game. The defense of Manchester is described to be “as solid as a steel wall” and it will be difficult even for an “attacking team like Barcelona” to break it. Though Manchester is famous for “manhandling” their opponents, Barcelona does have an excellent ability to “[turn] things their way.” A matchup such as this is exactly what soccer fans hope for. This will be a game for the record books.
The last time Barcelona won the title was in 2006, but back then they had the notable Ronaldinho. This master of the game was one of the keys to Barcelona’s success. Now, the Catalan team will be as determined as ever to prove that they can win the title without him. Even so, Manchester has the ability to “spoil the attack.” Experts still agree that the current Spanish representatives are much better now than when they lost to “the red devils” last year. These same “red devils” are the current trophy holders and are looking to extend their winning streak for another year.
A lot of debate has surrounded this game and everyone is keen to add their predictions to the mix. While I am cheering for the boys in red (ManU), it is clear that whatever happens, it will “be a joy to watch these two teams fight for the trophy.”

http://ceblogger.com/2009/05/13/barcelona-vs-manchester-united-champions%E2%80%99-league-finals-results-predictions/