A result none of the English teams wanted? Martin Lipton analyses the Champions League draw
The Champions League quarter-final draw this morning threw up some mouth-watering ties. Here's Daily Mirror Chief Football Writer Martin Lipton's instant analysis:
Real Madrid vs Tottenham
Not quite the worst draw possible for Spurs - but not far short. Jose Mourinho versus Harry, the Special One against the man dreaming the Impossible Dream, Bale and Van der Vaart against Ronaldo and Ozil. It'll take something truly magical for Tottenham to get through this one, although at least they play the second leg at White Hart Lane. It does look like the end of the European road, though with Mourinho already plotting for Barcelona in the semis.
Chelsea vs Manchester United
A draw neither Ancelotti nor Fergie would have wanted could have a huge psychological effect on the Premier League title race. A month ago, United would have been odds-on favourites but last month's defeat at the Bridge may have altered the balance. There'll be no cup-tied Luiz for Chelsea but United are injury-hit and the Blues will believe it is time to gain vengeance for the heartbreak of Moscow. The winners will believe the door to Wembley is wide open. No Martin Atkinson this time, either.
Barcelona vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Surely only one outcome in this one, although the Ukrainians did beat Barca at home in the group phase a couple of years ago. Shakhtar's Brazilian legion will have plenty to discuss with Alves and Adriano, but Messi, Villa, Xavi, Pedro and Iniesta look to have far too much fire-power. The Ukrainians need to keep the tie alive for the second leg in their intimidating Donbass lair, but it's hard to see that happening.
Inter Milan vs Schalke
The Italians are not the side they were but even so, Schalke, under new management as of yesterday, should not prevent the holders reaching the last four again. Tuesday's remarkable comeback from the dead in Munich mean there will be no fears over another trip to Germany for Leonardo and his side, who have class acts in Sneijder and Eto'o. Chelsea and United will see them as the easiest of the likely last four opponents, though.
Champions League last eight: Your team-by-team guide
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