EUROPEAN NIGHTS ~ Champions League Preview

La Liga vs Europe: Closer to the Next Phase, La Liga is a step away. Author: Raphael Harry


We are back to our European Nights and boy was La Liga on fire in the last round of matches! No defeat in the Champions League and only a single defeat in Europa League. The Ambassadors are really flying the La Liga flag high, and I expect them to continue, in this next round of matches.

As usual, we begin in the League of Champions (UCL). Star match for me is the visit of Rangers to Valencia. The first leg was very explosive and both teams could have won it, even though Rangers made some amazing misses, which would be added to the next compilation of Bloopers DVD. Ever since Valencia lost to Barcelona in the league, it looks like they have been struggling to find that confidence that made them start the season in such a blistering form. I think the main problem is the coach (not asking for him to be fired, except they should take Pellegrini in his place). Emery started the season using Aduriz and Soldado upfront. They quickly formed a fine pairing and cool understanding. Now he plays only one of them, especially since the return of Banega from injury, (which should have made his team stronger). Too many times Valencia have looked like a team not wanting to score and they can’t afford to play that way against a stubborn Rangers that would defend in numbers. Emery has to go for it from the start and start his two strikers and give it a shot. With the right approach Valencia should win this game.



I won’t dwell much on the remaining two games, Barcelona (and Messi) should pick up another 3pts and maybe a Messi brace. Copenhagen would try for the sake of it. Barcelona has been blowing hot and bold this season. If Copenhagen can pack a 40 seater bus in front of their goal, that may help their cause, but this is the kind of game Barca can win with their eyes closed (I guess).

Real Madrid at the San Siro should be hot. Milan is coming on the back of a defeat to one of their biggest rivals, Juventus, which did little to inspire confidence in this team for the neutral viewer. Allegri does not seem sure of what formation to play and he doesn’t know if he should start Robinho or Ronaldinho along with Pato and Ibra. But the main problem is in the Milan midfield and defense, old legs are going to be involved in plenty of running and all this will neatly play into Madrid’s plan. I see another victory for Real or worst case scenario result, a draw.

All things considered, this should be a very good round for La Liga. If results go to plan, all 3 La Liga teams should book a place or go a step closer to the knockout stage. I am going to stick my neck out for three victories for La Liga teams. Unfortunately I won’t be able to touch on the Europa League today, due to work schedule. I promise to do so next time.


Raphael Harry