Champions League: Man United vs. Marseille, Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan
By Ty Duffy
Manchester United are better Marseilles and have never lost to a French side at home, but L’OM could make this tricky. They are the best team in France. They won their last four matches in the group to advance and have gone five matches without allowing a goal. They have scored 10 goals in their last two away matches in Europe. Man U have been the stingiest Champions League team, allowing one goal, but they will be missing their two central defensive stalwarts, Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.
Nani has recovered from his Carragher kicking and, desire to leave aside, should be in the squad. He gave Gabrielle Heinze fits in the first leg. Marseilles may reorganize their back four to avoid a repeat of that matchup. United should win, but if the French side can score a quick away goal the match changes entirely.
Bayern Munich 1-0 Inter Milan
Though they’ve been dismal domestically, the away goal makes the Germans favorites here. Ajax in 1996 is the only club in the Champions League era to advance after dropping the first leg at home. Inter have missed Mourinho’s discipline and been terrible on the road this season. The Nerrazzuri have lost five away matches in Serie A. They took just one point from three away matches in the Group Stage, getting blown out by Werder Bremen and Tottenham. Bayern are much better at home. They should be flush with confidence after hammering Hamburg 6-0 last Saturday. It’s hard to see Inter crawling back.
[Photo via Getty]