The 2009/2010 UEFA Champions League is down to the final eight clubs after the second leg of the Round 16 was held this past week. The advancing teams were placed into the quaterfinal draw and produced the following match-ups:
Draw 1:
Lyon (FRA) vs. Bordeaux (FRA)
Thoughts: The first draw guarantees France a team in the semi-finals for the first time since 2003-2004 when Monaco lost in the final to Porto. Lyon will be the favorites going into the first leg following their two-leg victory over Real Madrid, while Bordeaux advanced by playing Olypmiacos.
Draw 2:
Manchester United (ENG) vs. Bayern Munich (GER)
Thoughts: While not an easy opponent, Manchester United must be please to be going up against Bayern Munich instead of some of the other top European clubs remaining. The draw also guarantees that the Red Devils will not have to play Barcelona, Inter Milan or Arsenal until the final.
Draw 3:
Barcelona (SPA) vs. Arsenal (ENG)
Thoughts: The hightlight of the quarterfinal round. Arsene Wenger can not be pleased with this draw, espcially after Barcelona dismantled Stuttgart 4-0 in the second leg of the last round. The winner of this match will most likely have to face off against Inter Milan making their road to the final in Madrid even harder.
Draw 4:
Inter Milan (ITA) vs. CSKA Moscow (RUS)
Thoughts: Following the knock-out of Chelsea by Inter, Jose Mourinho's side will be the clear favorites to dominate CSKA Moscow. However, just like in the Round of 16 the Russian club will have nothing to lose and having already advanced farther than ever before
The winners of Draw 1 & Draw 2 will face each other in the semi-finals, pitting the winners of Draw 3 & 4 against one another.
The first leg matches will take place over March 30th and 31st and the second leg will be held on April 6th and 7th.
What are your thoughts on the quarter-final draws? Predictions?
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