Champions League Preview, Part 1

UEFA Champions League is down to four teams: Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Barcelona. The participants of the final in Rome will be decided today and tomorrow during the second matches of the quarterfinals. Let's take a look at the first pair, Arsenal vs. Manchester United.

First Match: 29 April, Manchester United-Arsenal 1-0 (O'Shea 22')
The game was controlled by ManU, Arsenal couldn't play its quick, short-passing game. Still, a one-goal deficit was considered as a satisfactory result from Arsenal.

Today: At home, Arsenal has to be more agressive. Because they're only down by one in aggregation, they don't have to rush from the first minute. Also, if they open up the field too much, Manchester can easily score from quick counterattacks. As for Manchester, they have to remain patient as the game goes on. They have more freedom to adapt to Arsenal's game. ManU will come out with a rather defensive set, but players like Rooney or C. Ronaldo can always create havoc in opposing defenses.

Key Matchup: van Persie and Adebayor vs. Ferdinand and Vidic
Van Persie was inactive last week, and without him Adebayor was a bit lost among ManU defenders. With van Persie, however, they can play their two-man game, and with hep from the wingers, Arsenal will have five offensive-minded players on the field.

X-factor: Theo Walcott
The lightning-quick Arsenal winger has to be at the top of his game. He has to get behind the defenders and make good centering passes if Arsenal wants to be more dangerous.

Prediction: Manchester will advance
It is hard to bet against the defending champion. Manchester has showed in the past that they can protect a lead, no matter how small it is, and score goals if needed. Still, if Arsenal manages to score a goal, it can be an interesting game.