Champions League draw

What were the odds of that happening? Once again last years runners up, Chelsea, have been drawn against five time winners Liverpool. Arsenal have another trip to Villareal, who they knocked out on penalties on their way to their only final appearance a couple of seasons ago.

Manchester United, favourites in my opinion, have the easiest draw of the lot. But then again there are no easy draws in the champions league. United will face FC Porto, a shadow of their former self when they won the competition back in 2004 after beating Monaco in the final under the guidance of Jose Mourinho. No matter what Chelsea and Liverpool fans say, the tie of the round has to be the mouth watering clash between European giants Barcelona and German Champions, Bayern Munich, who shipped 12 goals past Sporting Lisbon in the last round.

The semi final draw is such that there could be a repeat of the 1999 CL final when Mancheseter United beat Bayern Munich winning 'the treble' in the process. I don't think too many neutrals would complain if there was a repeat performance. But i'm sure Barcelona will have something to say about that.

Semi-final draw is:

Liverpool/Chelsea v Barcelona/Bayern Munich

Manchester United/FC Porto v Arsenal/Villareal

I think it's safe to say that i will be missing a fair few Bops to witness such great sporting events.

I can't help but want a Man U - Liverpool final then perhaps the on going war of words between Sir Alex Ferguson and Rafael Benitez may be put to bed...well we can all dream.