Friday, March 29, 2013

Champions League Quarter-finals: Real Madrid vs. Galatasaray

Real Madrid vs. Galatasaray is going to be another entertaining game. For most people, this seems like an easy match-up for Madrid, but for soccer scholars, have we forgotten the amazing comeback displayed by the Turkish club back in April 3rd in 2001. In that Champions League series the Turkish squad came from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. The second leg was a bit of a different story, Madrid won the second encounter 3-0, eliminating the Turkish club from the tournament.

So how will Galatasaray stand up to Spanish giants Real Madrid? The first leg is slated to be played on April 3rd at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. The fact that the first encounter is going to be an away game is crucial for a team like Galatasaray. Being that the game isn't a home game means that a goal is highly valuable.  Going into the first leg expect to see a highly motivated attack squad, especially in the first half of the game.  Led by Wesley Sneijder who's the midfield general, look for him to link up with ex-Chelsea player Didier Drogba playing up front. 

Real Madrid will have a different mindset.  Being that its a home game, they know the importance of an away goal getting scored on them. Look for the Madrid side to play a balanced game. Most likely using Xabi Alonso as a holding midfielder launching long-balls to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Ozil. As for their front, most likely Benzema will start and provide for a better counter attack option down each flank, winning crosses sent in by Ronaldo and Di Maria.

As for set pieces I'm giving the edge to Madrid. They have players with amazing heading ability that can really get up there when needed to. Look for Sergio Ramos to get a few headed shots on target if Madrid are awarded corners.  A pretty exciting match, with a pretty star studded lineup on both sides of the field.  Players to watch for this one are going to be Wesley Sneijder playing for Galatasaray and Cristiano Ronaldo for Real Madrid. Both will be setting the tempo for each team and when these players are on, look out for fireworks.

3 comments:

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