Champions League Quarter Finals - WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

UEFA Champions League. The elite competition of European football. The pinnacle of continental competition. Time and time again we see incredible stories play out and this year's most recent batch of games might just have topped the lot. When the draw was made, we knew it had the potential to be special. The two remaining English sides, Liverpool and Manchester City to face off in a whole new Battle of Britain. A replay of last year's final, Real Madrid took on Juventus. And in the two more one sided ties (We'll get into that later) Roma and Sevilla challenged Barcelona and Bayern Munich respectively. 

So what exactly was so special? Well...

LIVERPOOL 5-1 Manchester City. 

Well if you've been living under a rock for the last week, you might have missed the English champions elect bottling the biggest week in their history. Starting with a lesson in intimidation from Liverpool at Anfield in their quarter final first leg. 

From before the Citizens had even stepped inside Anfield, the Liverpool fans were making their lives hell. Now I can not condone what the fans flanking Anfield Road did, launching bottles and everything else at their opponents team bus. But it worked. The damage on route translated to a damaged and fragmented performance on the pitch, but the credit has to go to Liverpool - and Jurgen Klopp. As managers go, no one has a record against Pep Guardiola that compares to Klopp's. Three wins from four games this season speaks wonders for the German's ability to outsmart the Spanish coach. 

Now onto the match. From the first whistle City actually dominated possession so nothing out of the ordinary just yet. It was when given the chance to stretch the away side's defence that Liverpool changed through the gears. Who else but Mo Salah would you back to score the biggest of goals in the biggest of games for Liverpool. When Bobby Firmino's effort was turned away from Ederson, Salah reacted faster then anyone else. Before having the composure to fire into the net under pressure from back peddling City defenders. 1-0. One turned into two just eight minutes later when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain fired in a rocket from 25 yards into the goal at the Kop end. He LOVES a goal against City. Pep's men were shaken. Struggling to string two passes together, Ox's goal came from them being disposed in a poor position. Lighting would strike twice as Liverpool's heavy pressing again forced City into a mistake, again allowing Salah to break. His initial shot was blocked, but what followed was a beautifully weighted ball onto Sadio Mane's head at the back post. 3-0 on the night. City blown away after a half hour. 

That was how the game would end. Pep's men seemed fresh out of ideas. A solid Liverpool defence sat back throughout the second half, not allowing a single shot on target. Karius having one of the more quiet night of his Liverpool career. Going into the second leg, City needed a miracle.

Liverpool's arrival in Manchester was quite the contrast to their opponents the week before. City needed quite the contrast in performances to progress. Despite the 3-0 defeat in the first leg, a poll on BT Sport found over 40% of people still backed the Premier League leaders to overcome the odds. Two minutes in you could see why, Raheem Sterling pouncing on a mistake to slide in Gabriel Jesus to score an incredibly early opener. Game on. After an early wobble Liverpool were pinned back through out the first half, Bernardo Silva rattling the post with a deflected effort. Leroy Sane had the ball in the net on the stroke of half time, but was chalked off for offside - wrongfully, with Liverpool's James Milner getting the final touch before Sane poked in. 

Protest at half time saw Pep sent to the stands, and it was the beginning of the downfall for his side. Again despite dominating possession in the second half, much like in the first leg Liverpool punished on the counter attack. Mo Salah sliding the ball into the on running Sadio Mane who did brilliantly well to ride the challenge before going down in the box. Not one to take any chances, it was that man again Mo Salah who was on hand to round Ederson and produce the most beautiful chip over a man on the line and into an empty net. An away goal, an equaliser on the night, 4-1 on aggregate. Former captain Steven Gerrard described it best on the BT Sport studio. 

"Game over."

But not before Liverpool's number nine could get in on the act. You'd think defenders would learn not to be sloppy with the ball at the back when Liverpool come to town. But Otamendi, who was at fault for Liverpool's third at Anfield was disposed by Firmino just to the right of his penalty area. It was as easy as strolling up to the goal and slotting past countryman Ederson for Bobby to seal not only the tie, but the win on the night. Handing City their third defeat on the bounce, two of which at the hands of Liverpool. Next came the final whistle, a nightmare week for the home side, jubilation for the visitors. Another failure in Europe without Lionel Messi for Pep. An upset in the 2018 Champions League quarter finals, the first but not the last. 

Barcelona 4-4 ROMA (Roma progress on away goals.)

Now I made predictions for the quarter finals the day of the draw in March (feel free to check out the article on this blog.) And after the first leg, Barcelona leading 4-1 against Roma, I felt as if my prediction for this tie was safe. Well... 

Barcelona came into this quarter final with potentially the kindest draw (oops) and have failed to progress past this stage in each of the last two Champions League campaigns (oops.) Despite what looks like a very dominant scoreline, Barcelona failed to really impress at the Nou Camp. Their dominance in La Liga has given many fans a false sense of security as to just how good the Catalan's are, and the scoreline from the first leg does the same thing. Two incredibly unlucky own goals on Roma's part, from captain De Rossi and Kostas Manolas (We'll get back to them) and Barca lead by two. A very well taken Gerard Pique goal was capped off with Luis Suarez finally ending his draught in the competition this year with a fourth - but not before Dzeko struck. Edin Dzeko clawed an away goal back for his side in the 80th minutes, giving them something to fight for in Rome. 

As mentioned, despite the scoreline Barcelona did not blow Roma away. What's worse for the Spanish giants is their opponents knew this. You could see at full time they felt hard done by in Spain, and went into the second leg knowing they have the quality to give almighty Barcelona a run for their money. But much like Manchester City on the same night, the Italian's needed a miracle. 

For years now the slick passing Barcelona have been criticised for being sloppy at the back. This season a league high defensive record has put that claim to rest. But Roma brought it right back up. Gerard Pique, FIFA World Cup winner was bullied by Edin Dzeko. After six minutes the Bosnian ran onto a loose ball, holding of the Spaniard and slotted home the first of three goals Roma needed to progress. Rome's Olympic Stadium was rocking. Much of the first half played out exactly the same as the game taking place in Manchester. The home side, needed a big win, struck early - but failed to add to it. Then however, came the second half. Again Dzeko bullying the Barca defence, strolling into the box before being brought down for a penalty. Captain and eldest statesman Daniele De Rossi, the man who's own goal but them on the back foot in Spain a week before, stepped up. And fired it into the bottom right hand corner with some venom, 2-0 Roma. One goal needed and one man left to make up for his own goal, step up Kostas Manolas. 

"The Greek god!"

The words that will go down in commentary history. As a corner from the right hand side was whipped into the near post, Roma's big centre back flicked the ball delicately towards and into the side netting of the far post. Ter Stagen stranded, Roma jubilant, Italy's capital ecstatic. And that was it, one of the greatest comebacks in the competitions history. Perhaps the biggest upset of the last decade. Roma may have ruined my predictions, but I'll let them off. 

Sevilla 1-2 BAYERN MUNICH.

Much like Barcelona vs Roma, when this tie was drawn there appeared to be a very clear favourite. Bayern Munich have made a habit of turning it on as the games start to mean more and more, showing that in the round of 16. Despite this, Sevilla are no pushovers. Going to Manchester and beating United in the last round, they were already in the middle of their best every performance in the Champions League. And welcomed the German champions to Spain in the first leg. 

Bayern as expected had the better of the possession, but didn't do anything with it in the early stages of the first leg - Sevilla standing strong. After the half hour a good night for the hosts became great, as Pablo Sarabia opened the scoring and sent the home fans to cloud nine. Pouncing on a rare defensive error from the Germans. But all this goal did was wake the beast, and Bayern started to play with much more purpose. Only minutes later a fast paced attack from the away side saw a dangerous ball in by Frank Ribery turned into his own net by Jesus Navas. Just creeping in at the near post to level the game up once again, sucking the life from the fans.

The second half saw Bayern playing what could easily be seen as a training game. Clearly the better side, but not really playing in top gear. However it took 20 minutes of the second half for Sevilla to switch off, Ribery again involved, his cross to the back post met by Thiago. A slight deflection and the ball bounced into the net. Two away goals on the night for the Germans a victory and one foot in the semi-finals. 

A decent first leg in Spain was followed by the one game out of eight in the quarter finals that failed to entertain. 

Sevilla had something to fight for in Munich, but failed to register a single shot on target. Bayern never really had to get out of first gear, still looking far superior in a game they didn't have to win. With their domestic league title already secured, a cup final to play and now a Champions League semi-final place. The treble is on.

There is always one tie that lets the rest down, and this is that tie. Not to say it was a bad tie, far from it. Bayern were their usual clinical self, Sevilla gave it all they had in their most successful ever Champions League campaign. It just isn't quite up their with the three other quarter finals. Don't worry. I've left the best till last. 

Juventus 3-4 REAL MADRID 

In a replay of last years final, champions of their respective leagues met off in a clash of the titans. All hell broke loose, I can't think of a more appropriate way to explain it. Allegri's Juve coming off the back an impressive tactical display against Spurs, Real Madrid strolling past heavily fancied PSG despite their domestic troubles. 

In Turin the man who will have haunted Buffon's nightmares after his brace in last years final struck again. Cristiano Ronaldo of course - believe it or not he comes up quite a bit over the two games. Sweeping in the opener, a key away goal just three minutes in as the experienced Juventus back line crumbled. Wave after wave of blue shirts, you'd be forgiven for thinking it was Madrid who were the home side, if it wasn't for the boisterous Juventus fans. Kroos rattled the bar with what would have been a stunning strike, but as the half went on Juve came more and more into the game. Forcing Navas into a handful of fine saves towards the end of the first 45. However the away side had a 1-0 lead going into the break - up steps CR7. 

He tormented Juve's back line from the start of the second half, and it was only a matter of time before he struck again. But, no one could have seen this coming. The Portuguese record scorer latched onto a defensive mistake before laying the ball back to Lucas, his shot batted away from Buffon. Dani Carvajal picked up the loose ball left of the goal and floated it back into the Juventus area when Cristiano Ronaldo - running away from goal, launched himself into the air, his right boot easily seven feet from the ground. Before connecting with the most perfect overhead kick, back into Buffon's bottom left corner. An hour played and Ronaldo had torn apart the Italian champions almost on his own. 

"The greatest marksman in the history of the Champions League." 

A poll on BT Sports voted Ronaldo's strike as the second best in Champions League history, behind his manager's (Zidane) sublime volley in the 2002 Champions League final. But Madrid weren't done yet. Left back Marcelo, a key figure in Los Blanco for the last decade, added the third and final goal of a 3-0 thumping. 

If Juventus were to overcome the odds and progress, they'd have to do it without the talents of Paulo Dybala who was sent off in Turin for a high footed challenge on Carvajal. The second leg in Madrid came 24 hours after Roma's incredible comeback against Barcelona by the same margin, so it was possible. 

But much like Ronaldo's stunner in Turin, no one could have expected what the second leg would bring. The Galacticos. Los Blancos. 12 time European Champions. They wouldn't let a three goal advantage slip at home would they? 

Just like Madrid struck early in Turin, Juventus fired right back at the Bernabeu. Douglas Costa floating a lovely ball into the back post for Mario Mandzukic to head in to give the away side the lead, the first of the three goals they needed. Juventus pressed high and fast, Real Madrid looked out of ideas and flustered. Half an hour played another ball into the back post, another Mandzukic header, same result. Navas got a hand to this one but not enough to keep it out as Juventus had exploited a poor start by the holders and scored twice. When the half time whistle blew Real Madrid looked a shadow of themselves from a week prior, and more like the side which are 4th in La Liga. 

You can not afford to make mistakes in this competition, especially this far into the competition. The talk of Madrid targeting David De Gea will certainly be back after this game, when Navas handed Juventus a third goal to equalise the tie. Spilling a simple cross into the path of Blaise Matuidi, who was excellent on the night. The Frenchman tapped in, as it stood, extra time was calling. Zinadine Zidane has to win the Champions League to keep his job. 100%. This season the legendary midfielder has been found out tactically, and Allergi had him all ends up in the Bernabeu. Juventus, knowing another goal would make Madrid's night even harder, pushed on further. Testing the home defence, which started to hold firm. As time ticked on it became very apparent at Juve's desire to break up play. Six yellow cards on the night for what can only be described as identical incidents. Jabs at the ankles of the players in white, it wasn't pretty, but it was effective and clearly put onto them by the manager. 

I have personally called out Zidane on this blog for relying on his players to do the magic and offering very little in a solution when backs are against the wall. And as play ticked on, this appeared to be biting Zidane's men. Cristiano Ronaldo had been very quiet for 90 minutes. But it had to be him didn't it!

Toni Kroos floated the ball up to the back post, Ronaldo's incredible leaping ability allowed him to somehow get the ball back across goal were Lucas was brought down from behind by Benatia. Penalty to Real Madrid in the 93rd minute. The protest commenced. Leading those protests was Gianluigi Buffon, who had lost his head. Sprinting towards the referee, thinking the Englishman had potentially cost him his last every Champions League game (Buffon is said to be retiring at the end of the season.) However it was the reaction of the Italian that cost him, when Michael Oliver produced a red card for Buffon. Meaning even if back up stopper Wojciech Szczesny was to produce the save and the Old Lady went on to win, the great Italian would have been suspended for both legs of the semi final. A cruel moment of Irony, Buffon sent off in his last Champions League match against Zidane's side, mirroring Zidane being dismissed in his last match as a professional against Buffon's Italy. 

The protest and subsequent commotion saw the clock tick over to the 98th minute by the time Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to face Szczesny. A goal would send Juventus packing, anything else and the tie goes into extra time. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, and what must have felt like an eternity passing between the award of the penalty and the whistle being blown to take it. Many would collapse under the pressure. By this isn't just any ordinary player. Not only did Ronaldo put away the penalty, he riffled it into the top right hand corner with virtually the last kick of the tie. He was never going to miss, just like he was never going to keep his jersey on. The famous white shirt pulled off as he posed in the corner of the pitch as 80,000 Madrid fans lost their minds. No words can put the 98 minutes of football in Madrid into perspective, it was just incredible viewing. 

That is it. We have out Champions League semi-finalists for 2018. In a rare occurrence there is a representative from each of Europe's top four league left in the running. Liverpool from England, Roma from Italy, Bayern Munich from Germany, and finally Real Madrid from Spain. Roma being the biggest underdogs of the round, after overturning their 4-1 defeat in the first leg to giants Barca - with one of Euorpe's most famous comebacks. Liverpool rocked English football by comfortably dispatching of the soon to be champions. Bayern did as expected in overcoming Sevilla. And finally, in typical dramatic style. Cristiano Ronaldo inspired Real Madrid to overcome a resilient Juventus side to reach their record breaking eighth consecutive Champions League semi-final. 

Onto the draw on Friday 13th April. 

Mo Salah - The Closest Thing to Messi on Planet Earth.

Now. Now. Now. I am not in any way saying Liverpool's Mo Salah is on the same level as Lionel Messi. The Argentinian is the greatest of not only his own generation, but any generation before him. But, a tricky left footed winger, who is more then capable of playing down the middle. Can glide past opposition defenders effortlessly and is posting record breaking goal scoring stats. For years these attributes have been the calling card of Barcelona's number 10. This season however, he's got some competition. In the form of the man dubbed as, The Egyptian King.

In the race for the European golden boot. Messi and Salah are tied. 29 league goals each. Since signing for Liverpool in the summer of 2017, Mo has gone from strength to strength, and the Liverpool fans have fallen in love with their new talisman. He looks set to win the Premier League golden boot in his Premier League return. And with five league games to play, is just two goals off of the record of 31 goals in a 38 game season. Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Suarez and Alan Shearer are all tied with that amount, illustrious company for Salah to compete with. Not just for him to compete with, but to surpass.

Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has held the record for most goals scored in a single season by an African since 2010. When Salah scored a late winner against Palace on March 31st, he pulled up right besides him. He has already comfortably broken the record for most league goals scored by a foreigner in their debut season. A tally which stood at 24 goals, scored by former red Fernando Torres. Salah's goal against Palace was also the 21st league game he has struck in this season, a joint highest. Cristiano Ronaldo and Robin Van Persie also scored in 21 league games during a single season, and with five games to go, one more goal will make that record his own.

Records continue to tumble with Salah. With 38 goals in all competitions this season, scored in just 41 games, that is the third highest amount ever chalked up by a Liverpool player. Trailing to tallies of 40 and 47 goals, both held by Ian Rush. Mo's debut season for the redmen is the most prolific in the clubs history, and seeing him surpass Rush's record with a minimum of six games left to play is not an impossibility. This season has also seen Robbie Fowler's record for 20 left footed goals in a season surpassed, no prizes for guessing who by.

I'm sure by now I've explained just how good of a season Salah is having. But how does it explain a comparison to Lionel Messi? That would be the execution of his play style. An ability to take on defenders and make them look like amateurs is one that Messi has used to great effect throughout his career. This season, Salah is following in suit. Taking of opposition at full flight, his composure never ceases to amaze. Whether the ball is bouncing, gliding along the turf, or being floated over to him, Salah doesn't panic. Take his most recent goal. The opener against Manchester City in an already famous night at Anfield. Inside 10 minutes, the ball fell to the Egyptian, 6 yards from goal, with the goal gaping. But with Ederson and Kyle Walker both throwing themselves in his direction. The Kop screaming in front of him, and huge expectation on his shoulders. So many would crumble, Salah made it look just as easy as it was. Never rushing, never lashing at it, just firing the ball home.

Now you might be asking. "How does scoring a goal as easy as that compare him to Messi?" If you're asking that you've clearly missed the point but I present, exhibit B. Salah recently struck four (yes four) at Anfield against Watford. His third goal being the pick of the bunch in my opinion. With six (yes six) yellow shirts around him, Liverpool's number 11 twisted and turned, taking every one of them out of the game. Somehow keeping his balance, and then hooking the ball out from underneath his feet, past a stranded goalkeeper and into the corner. That goal wasn't even the only one from that 90 minutes which drew comparisons to Messi. For his first he drove at Watford's defender, gestured to come inside and quickly dropped his shoulder to go outside. Leaving the back tracking defender to fall back as Salah slotted in the goal. In almost identical fashion to how Lionel Messi left Boateng scrambling at the Nou Camp in 2015.

Anyone who still disagrees with me might be saying. "Oh that's just one game." Again, I'd question just how much football you watch. Salah has been hitting these heights all season and playing to a remarkable standard. Away at Porto in the Champions League, Salah was not the star man for the night, with Sadio Mane hitting a hat-trick. However the goal of the night went to the Egyptian, for perhaps the most composed goal you will see all season. After the ball came back off of the post and bounced up for Salah he proceeded to flick it up, before keeping it alive with his head. Knocking it over a diving goalkeeper. As it dropped a defender threw himself in the way of the ball, so Mo allowed it to drop, waiting for the man to over commit. Which he did, before tapping it into an empty net on the volley. The goal oozed class. The man oozes class.

So... this season Salah has demonstrated the play style of Lionel Messi. Scored at the rate of Messi. Broken record after record, and did it with a class and style we're use to seeing from Argentinian number 10's. The key wording there however is 'this season.' This season, Salah has been as good as Messi. But what about next season? And the one after that and so on. I personally believe Salah, if he continues to grow and evolve his game, can be at that level. He has all the tools, a talented set of team mates who all know his quality, and a fan base who quite literally worship him. When Jurgen Klopp signed Mohamed Salah from Roma last summer, no one would have predicted this. Four Premier League POTM awards already to his name, he has also been nominated for March's award. A front runner for the PFA POTY award, competing mostly with Man City's Kevin De Bruyne. The accolades do just continue to stack up and they don't appear to be slowing down.

The Untouchables - Are Pep's Manchester City side the best in Premier League history?

After rolling over Everton at Goodison Park, Manchester City are one win away from history. A win in the Manchester Derby in the coming weekend will secure the Premier League title in record time. Right now Pep's men side sit 16 points clear with eight games to go, and the margin has been substantial for most of the campaign. While everyone below them has been dropping points, City have been winning football matches. Only losing one game all season, and drawing just three, the so far illusive 100 point mark is within their grasp. A minimum of five wins and one draw will make The Citizens the first Premier League side to ever hit 100 points, but will it make them the best?

Pep Guardiola was called a fraud by many after his lacklustre first season in charge of City, and now on for a potential treble, he's left his neigh-sayer's red in the face. The question of the best of all time is thrown around way too often in football. Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo dominates the conversation in the minds of modern day football fans. But with so many changes in style football has undergone over the years, picking the best of all time is a tall order. However, with the Premier League starting in 1992, only 26 years ago, picking the best Premier League side of all time is much more accomplishable.

THE INVINCIBLES!

That is what any Arsenal fan reading this article would have been screaming since they clicked on it. I went into a lot of detail in an article I had published at THE VERSED (FKA Clickon Sports) about why the Invincible's were not as great as you remember. That same article was posted on this blog last October so feel free to click off this and give it a read but to quickly put this argument to rest. A lack of points when compared to other champions. A lack of goals when compared to other champions. A style of play towards the end of the campaign which SCREAMED fear of losing. Speaking of losing, LOSING the biggest game of the season in the Champions League to Chelsea. If you aren't convinced check out my full article on the matter, but although historic, Arsenal's Invinicbles are not the greatest. Sorry.

Now that's out the way let me explain why I believe Pep's City have a very strong case.

Anyone with a footballing brain can appreciate how Guardiola not only manages his side, but
coaches individual players on how to reach their full potential. Raheem Sterling being a prime example. Since the 2013/2014 season at Liverpool, Sterling has floundered, living off of his potential. Rumours off a move to Arsenal in part exchange for Alexis at the start of the season added more fuel to the fire. But now, with the current season still going strong, Sterling is enjoying his best year yet. A guaranteed starter with over 20 goals this campaign, and a shoe in for the World Cup. His erratic movements have been replaced with finely timed and methodically thought out runs. His sloppy final balls it no more, 16 league goals speaks for itself. Perhaps more clearly then any other player, Guardiola has been there to put an arm around the young winger and keep guiding him. Whether in training or mid way through a match, an arm around the shoulder and words of encouragement makes any player feel like gold. Sterling oozes confidence, and it is no coincidence that it coincides with Pep getting is team to play his way.

Speaking of Pep's way. City's Brazilian keeper Ederson was quoted stating that his side's tactics bring joy to all football fans. And he isn't wrong. An incredibly high pressing style, reminiscent of that of Pep's Barcelona side, forces opposition into submission. Keeping the ball away from their goal, and in the rare occasion Ederson does find the ball in his possession, a 60 yard cross field pass is one of the many strings to his bow. David Silva has been having a career defining season in midfield, when many tipped him to be on the way out. A Spaniard over looked for years in the Premier League now can not be ignored. Alongside Fernandinho who has been consistently solid, sometimes going un-noticed but never in a bad way. Of course the talisman Kevin De-Bruyne running the show will draw the headlines, and rightfully so, he's sublime. But every single player in the starting eleven is there because they fit the system. Sane and Sterling have been untouchable down the wings, and are leaps and bounds ahead of where they were 12 months ago.

You can criticise City for 'buying the league' but instead of just throwing money at star names like Arsenal and Manchester United have done this season, they've spend big on players who make their system fit. £50 million on a right back is ludicrous right? Is it when Kyle Walker has been comfortably the best wing back in the league all season and has been a nightmare of any opposition flank that has came across him. The same to be said about £60 million on a centre back right? Laporte has slotted into a defence that has been the stand out this campaign, after being called out for being shaky over the last couple of years. Very little has been spent going forward, and that's because Pep KNEW where the weaknesses were, and fixed them. Yes he had the financial means to bring in the best players, but so do Arsenal and they're in 6th. Pep and his team also has the tactical know how to spot and bring in appropriate targets.

Now into some good old fashion statistics. As mentioned, a win for City this coming week would mean they have secured the title quicker then any other side in Premier League history, which is historic in itself. Also as I mentioned, the form table would indicate that the champions will finish with over 100 points for the first time in Premier League history. Which wasn't even done in the old 42 game season format. Moving away from points. If the season was the end right now, they would have scored more then any of the champions from the last four years. And remember there is seven games to play, the record is in sight. 103 goals is the current record, held by Chelsea's 2010 title winning side. An average of two goals a game would ensure they beat that amount; so far they've averaged 2.8 per game. Switching lanes to defence, City would have to concede 8 more goals between now and the end of the season to end with the joint best defence of the decade. Any less and of course they'd end as the best defensive champions in recent times. With an average of 0.6 goals conceded per game, it's likely they'll hold that record as well.

So broken down, the stats point to Manchester City's 2017/2018 team - Winning the Premier League title, finishing with over 100 points which has never been done before, as well as winning it with 6 games to spare which is a record. On top of that - breaking the record for most Premier League goals scored in a season, and registering the best defensive record in the past decade (fourth best record for the champions this century.)

Now moving away from stats. City play with a style that is eye catching, and enjoyable for any football fan to take in. A style similar to that of the great Barcelona side of 2009-2011, said to be the best club side in European history. During a season when some of England's big guns have been torn apart by the media for playing unattractive and boring football, Pep's men have not only been entertaining, but incredible efficient. One league defeat makes them the second most winningest side currently in Europe's top five leagues this season, only behind the unbeaten Barcelona. With English football under constant scrutiny recently, Manchester City are a shining light. World class players from back to front. World beaters like KDB and Sergio Aguero. Breakthrough superstars like Sane, Sterling and Jesus. Proven masters such as David Silva and Vincent Kompany, The Citizens have it all.

A Champions League quarter final Wednesday 5th April is so far Pep's and City's biggest game of the season, a huge test away at Anfield. A reply of the one Premier League fixture they have lost this season. Nearly impossible to call (But I did, check out my most recent article). But win, lose or draw in Europe, a domestic season to remember Manchester City have put in. The best side in Premier League history? It's hard to argue against it.

Champions League Quarter Finals - Predictions

Europe's top competition is reaching boiling point. With only eight sides left battling it out for the mantel of European Champions. Out of the remaining sides three of them are hunting for their first European crown. Roma, Manchester City and Sevilla. All three sides in history with five titles also remain, in Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. And of course, a repeat of last years final with Juventus and Real Madrid.

There are obvious favorites, dark horses, and massive underdogs. This stage of the competition always throws up interesting match ups, so lets see what this years has to offer.

Sevilla vs Bayern Munich.

Spanish side Sevilla already have their best ever placement in the Champions League to boast about. The Europa League specialists have never progressed past the last 16 in Europe's elite competition before. Achieving this by upsetting Jose's Manchester United in the last round, winning 2-1 away at Old Trafford.

But blocking their path to the semi-finals are soon to be German champions (again) Bayern Munich. Since Carlo Ancelotti's departure last October, the five time European champions have put their early season poor form behind them and are currently on a roll both domestically and in continental competition. This was shown when they easily swept past their Turkish opponents in the last round, winning 5-0 in the first leg to kill off the tie.

Despite Sevilla's heroics in reaching this round by toppling Manchester United, I feel like this is the end of the road for them. Wissam Ben Yedder's sublime form has earned him his first call up to the French national team, so Sevilla will have fire power going forward.

But if there is one thing Bayern Munich are known for (Other than making their league look like a cake walk.) It's turning on the style when the lights are at their brightest. With a front three of Muller, Lewandowski and Robben, I just don't see a way of the Spanish side's defense keeping them out. And that's what i'm going with a Bayern Munich win, 5-2 over two legs. Potentially with another Besiktas-style blow over in the second leg in Germany.

Juventus vs Real Madrid.

In a repeat of last years final, we have 12 time champions Real Madrid taking on the side with a record number of runners up medals in Juventus. Massimiliano Allergri got the better of Spurs in the last round, to see his side progress. Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain being the main attractions across both legs. Back in 2017 the game between these two sides was a lot more even then the 4-1 scoreline represents. Juve had put in a very admirable performance until the 80th minute where Madrid changed up a gear and killed off the final. In a one off game, late on especially, tactics go out the window and it comes down to who can force one final chance. And in Cardiff that was Zidane's side. However in a two legged affair, Allergri may have an advantage over Zidane when tactics are concerned. The Frenchman has came under fire for his lack of tactical knowledge in the League, and maybe the Italian Allegri could use this to his advantage in this tie. Finding a way to keep out the back-to back champions.

On the other hand. It's Real Madrid in a Champions League knockout match. Cristiano Ronaldo is breaking records left right and centre, becoming the first man in the history of the competition to score in the first eight games consecutively. Despite their worst league form in a decade, and a lack lustre group stage, Zidane's side blew past PSG in the last round. The French side many peoples favourites to go all the way. Almost in the vein of a local derby, form doesn't appear to matter when it comes to Real Madrid in the Champions League. Like any true world beater, Los Blancos know how to handle the pressure of a big game, and it has seen them collect accolade after accolade.

When comparing the two sides, my heart is telling me to go with Juventus. The Italian league leaders will be out for revenge after last years final, and Allergri will relish the opportunity to prove his tactical knowledge by knocking out the record breaking Real Madrid. Also hitting form at exactly the right time, in recent weeks Juventus have finally reclaimed top spot in Italy from Napoli, and seem to be in cruise control domestically. Meaning that their focus can be solely aimed towards ending their string of poor luck in the European cup and finally win the big one. Finally the idea of Gainluigi Buffon finally getting his hands on the one trophy that has eluded him is a story written in the heavens.

But then, my head is telling me to never back against Los Blanco. 12 time European champions. Back-to-back winners of the competition, the first time that has ever been achieved. A record breaking Cristiano Ronaldo who is flying at just the right time. Real Madrid are out of the title race in Spain, and therefore need a good showing in Europe to save their season. Perhaps even to save Zidane's job. I can think of more reasons why I believe Juve could upset the odds and knock out the holders. And yet, I'm going with a Real Madrid win. 4-2 on aggregate, but much like last years final, it will be a lot closer then the scoreline suggests.

Barcelona vs Roma.

Perhaps the tie which is easiest to call on paper sees Spanish league leaders Barcelona take on Roma. The second of the two Spanish vs Italian ties of the quarter final. Barcelona come into the game as heavy favourites, and rightfully so. With only one loss to their name in all competitions this season, that makes them the in form side left in the last eight. With the La Liga title all but won, and a Copa del rey final to take place in April, Catalonia's crowing jewel could be on their way to an historic treble. The first since Pep's great side of 2009. And only the second treble of the decade (Inter Milan under Jose in 2010.) To get to this stage Barcelona knocked out a resilient Chelsea side, 4-1 over two legs. Lionel Messi staring, scoring three of the goals across the games, and passing the 100 Champions League goal mark in record time. You can never over analyse Barcelona's attacking threat. With the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and the recently fit Dembele, you'd imagine they wouldn't even notice a lack of Philipe Coutinho in their side. The Brazilian of course cup tied after featuring for Liverpool in the group stage. Their only real criticism over the years has been a leaky defence. Which this season simply isn't the case. Having only conceded 13 league goals all season, one less then the praised defensive unit of Atletico Madrid. Good luck Roma.

Perhaps however, that isn't a bad thing. Roma come into this game with zero expectations. After drawing the favourites the pressure is 100% on their opponents, win or lose, Roma have over achieved in this years competition. Topping a group with Chelsea and Atleti in, as well as over coming a first leg defeat in Ukraine against Shakhtar to reach the last eight. But the Italians will not just be happy to make up the numbers, and they do have the quality to do something special. Brazilian number one Alisson between the sticks is as good as any keeper on the planet right now, and in front of him is a defence which will take some beating. But getting past Barca will ultimately come down to if Dzeko & CO can take their chances, few as they will be. As I mentioned, Barca's defence is solid, so chances will be few and far between but as Chelsea proved, they aren't unbreakable. The Bosnian in particular will have to be on top form to keep the European dream alive.

Despite everything I've just said, it doesn't look good for Roma. Maybe in Rome, with the Stadio Olympico bouncing, Roma may have a chance. But in Barcelona, I can only see one outcome. Their is only so much you can do when your opposition 's best player is perhaps the best in the history of the Game.

Lionel Messi appears to be on a personal quest to regain his lead over Cristiano Ronaldo in the number of Ballon D'or wins to their names. And a Champions League win will go a big way to securing the accolade for the Argentine. Over two legs I'm going for a Barcelona win, 6-2. Lionel Messi to steal the show again.

Liverpool vs Manchester City.

By far, the most interesting tie the quarter finals have thrown up is the one I've left until last. English champions elect Manchester City vs Five time European champions Liverpool. This one really is a coin flip, lets start with City. Pep's side have strolled to the League title, only losing one league game all season (we'll get to that.) And with a league cup already in the bag, a treble is well within reach for the blue half of Manchester. Despite a shocking home defeat to Basel in the last round, the work was done in the first leg, winning 4-0 away from home. That defeat is one of only four in all competitions, Pep's side have been closer to perfect. Many people, including me, consider this side to be the best the Premier League has ever seen. From back-to-front the team is perfectly balanced. A goal keeper who is up for pass of the season, and a striker willing to track back and do the work for his team. They all play for each other, and seem to have a togetherness that resonates when they step over the white lines. Sergio Aguero, flanked either side by Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling. With Gabriel Jesus waiting in the wings, makes up for perhaps the most intimidating striker force outside of Catalonia. Also with David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne both having the best seasons of their careers just behind the front three, it's hard to see any side stopping City.

But Liverpool already have. Manchester City's one league defeat came at Anfield, under the lights, four goals to three. In typical Liverpool style they conceded two late on to make it appear much closer then it was, but Liverpool bossed the league leaders. Mentally that must be huge for the reds, they known they can beat City. Plus when you have Euorpe's top goal scorer in Mo Salah, you can beat anyone! The Egyptian wide man has broken the following records this season: Most goals scored in a debut season for a foreigner in Premier League history. Most left footed goals scored in Premier League history. Most goals scored in a debut season in Liverpool history. Most goals scored in a season for Liverpool in the Premier League era. And we're still only in March, he is only three goals off scoring more then ANYONE in a single season in a 38 game Premier League season. Despite Salah's brilliance, he isn't a one man team. The Kop named 'Bobby' Firmino is enjoying the highest goal scoring season of his career, and Sadio Mane has already topped last seasons tally for both goals and assists. I mentioned City's front three being terrifying, Liverpool's could arguably be better. The heavy metal football of Klopp's side can put away any team in minutes, I don't care who you are, with Salah, Firmino and Mane in full flight, you can't stop them. Liverpool's biggest flaw is their defence, which despite appearing faulty at times away to Manchester United, have kept eight clean sheets in their last eleven. Lloris Karius showing great form between the sticks, and new signing Virgil Van Dijk leading the back four.

This really could go either way. I feel like both sides will win their home fixture, but I'm really struggling to pick a winner over two legs. City's advantage is that they not only have the squad to rotate and keep fresh, but they can do so knowing the league is virtually done. Where as Liverpool are in the middle of a battle for a Champions League position for next season.

By the time the second leg comes around their is a possibility that City could be Champions of England, and the treble will be that much closer. But as anyone will tell you, Anfield on a European night is something special. Liverpool have a love affair with the European cup, and I'm going to say... it will continue into the semi-finals. Over two legs Liverpool to win, 6-4. Crazy aggregate scoreline, for what I imagine to be two crazy games.

So there is my prediction for the quarter finals of the Champions League. Two made with relative ease and two that took real thinking. I like to think I know my stuff, we'll see if that still stands in a few weeks time.

I predict Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Liverpool to progress.

Champions League Round of 16 - Part Two

After last weeks action the Champions League had captured the headlines once again. Giants of the world game going head to head, and world class performances blowing their opponents away. This week was no different. One of recent histories most storied rivalries met at Stanford Bridge, with Chelsea welcoming Barcelona. German champions Bayern Munich welcomed Besiktas, looking to continue on after their great domestic form. Europa League experts Sevilla had the task of finding a way through the resolute defence of Jose's Manchester United. And in perhaps the most underwhelming tie of the round, Shakhtar played host to Italian side Roma.

Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona

Goals - Willian 62' - Messi 75'

Coming into the game a lot of the talk was about Lionel Messi. The Argentine had never scored against Chelsea coming into this round of 16 tie. Barcelona, who have lost only once in all competitions this season, came into the game as favourites. Chelsea not in great form domestically, but they came flying out of the box on Tuesday night. Hazard blazing a left footed shot over from range within five minutes, the Belgian looking sharp. Barcelona played their typical passing game, and their possession led to their first chance just past the 15 minute mark, Paulinho heading wide when he should do better.

Chelsea were holding their own against the Spanish League leaders, and could have been ahead after 32. Willian turning in and firing a sublime effort from outside the box. Ter Stegan stranded, but the post saved the German keeper. Antonio Conte, who hasn't enjoyed much of this current campaign, reacted as if he was certain his side were in front. And less then 10 minutes later Barcelona were again thanking the woodwork, and Willian again struck a viscous strike from the edge, this time heading into the opposite left hand corner. Again however, he left the post shaking. There was time for Hazard to again fire over before the half time whistle was blown. Willian could have had two, but the stalemate remained after 45 minutes.

The second half started with Barcelona trying to force the agenda. Luis Suarez running into the left channel and firing across goal, forcing the first real save of the game from Courtois. Despite a very impressive first half, Chelsea appeared to be set up very defensively in the second. Understandably against Barca, but surprising after the first half went the way of the home side.  But despite this, Willian, who was the best player on the park, continued to create danger. And third time proved to be the charm for the Brazilian. Barcelona hadn't learnt their lesson, again letting Chelsea's number 22 let fly from the edge of the box. But this time it found it's way into the near post. 1-0 to the home side.

But if there is one side in the world you do not want to be gifting chance to, that is Barcelona. Andreas Christensen, who had been brilliant all game, played a sloppy square pass that was latched onto by Iniesta. The Spaniard cutting it back to the man all of the talking had been about, Lionel Messi. Who didn't even blink before slotting into the corner to make it 1-1. Just like that.

And the game was to end like that. Chelsea will be wondering how they won't be taking a lead into the second leg. Tactically, Conte's desire to be solid may have cost them, with Barcelona there for the taking. The Spanish giants take an away goal to the Nou Camp, and Messi's Chelsea slump is over.

Bayern Munich 5-0 Besiktas

Goals - Muller 43', 66' & Kingsley Coman 52' & Robert Lewandowski 79', 88'

Both side domestic champions in their own rights, and despite this Besiktas must have known they were huge underdogs coming into this match. It's not easy for anyone to withstand the fire power of the German giants on any day. Bayern are known to step up the gears when in Europe, and the Turkish champions were nothing more then a punching bag on the night. It would have been hard enough with 11 men, but an early red card for the away side really but their backs up against the wall. Despite being down to 10 Besiktas did manage to keep the ball out of their net during the first half hour. A sublime ball in by James Rodriguez was met by Mats Hummels and well turned over the bar by the man between the sticks for the away side.

Ricardo Quaresma proved to be his usual tricky self down the flank, turning Hummels inside and out before firing in a shot from the right, but easily saved. But it was just delaying the inevitable and the home side were ahead just before half time. Kingsley Coman's pace causing nightmares down the left hand side, he played the ball across, met by Alaba and then turned in by the captain for the night Thomas Muller. Right before the break, the deadlock was broken.

The second half started and as expected, the home side came for blood. Hummels sent a header over the bar, and Robert Lewandowski rattled the cross bar both inside four minutes of the restart. And just three minutes later it was two nil. A slick Bayern Munich move lead to Lewandowski being slotted in down the right, he pulled it back expertly into the on-running Kingsley Coman to slot home. 2-0.

Bayern have looked a different side since Carlo Ancelotti departed in October last year, and they go from strength to strength. So the last thing they need is a helping hand, but Besiktas didn't come out in the second half. Robben slipped a pass into Joshua Kimmich, the young German whipped the ball into an unmarked Muller to secure his brace. Unmarked in the six yard box, 3-0, game over.

With every goal Bayern grew in confidence, and it was flowing through every player. Besiktas didn't have an answer for it. Mats Hummels charged forward from the back, striking down to the goal keeper's right, forcing a decent save. But on hand was Lewandowski to fire in the rebound and make it four. Even at 3-0 up, Bayern had three players running in for the follow up, the German's wanted this tie over before the second leg.

Bayern's fire power is one matched by few sides across Europe, with Robben, Muller and Lewandowski running at you late on, goals are a guarantee. And the three men combined to put the icing on the cake. The flying Dutchman Robben playing a pass onto Muller, in for the hat-trick. But the German unselfishly squared for Lewandowski to turn the ball into an empty new for his second and the home sides 5th. Game over, tie virtually over. 5-0.

Sevilla 0-0 Manchester United

Jose and his Man United side travelled to Spain and to Sevilla for their round of 16 first leg. The Spaniard's welcoming their second English side of the competition, after a 3-3 draw with Liverpool in the group stage. Many could see United setting up to defend and from the beginning that was obvious, sitting back as the home side attacked. Luis Muriel testing De Gea early on with a strike from range inside four minutes. From a similar range Jesus Navas fired just wide, again with United backing off.

You have to fast forward to the 25 minute mark for United's first chance, and for a £80 million striker, you'd expect Lukaku to do better. A lovely floated ball from Alexis fell perfectly onto the Belgian's left boot, but it flied way over the bar on the volley. Any Liverpool fan will tell you that Banega can not be given space in Sevilla's midfield, as he will punish you. And United got a big let off as the Argentine played a ball over the back of United'd defence and into a team mate, only for a tame shot to be easily kept out. David De Gea dedicated stoppage time to creating a save of the season completion. Firstly brilliant keeping out a glancing N'Zonzi header, tipping it over the bar. But when Jesus Navas' cross found Luis Muriel unmarked inside the six yard box, the Spaniard defied explanation to get his left hand to the ball and pull off an unbelievable save to see the half end at 0-0.

Truth be told, the second half wasn't worth watching. Sevilla managed nothing more then balls into the box, with United dealing with them all pretty easily. The English side showed no desire to win the game, and it finished 0-0. You have to wonder who this result favours. United now can take the tie back to Manchester for the chance to progress. But Sevilla won't have to worry about away goals, giving them an advantage should they strike at Old Trafford.

Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 Roma

Goals - Ferreyra 52' & Fred 71' - Cengiz Under 41'

A bitterly cold day in Ukraine saw Shakhtar welcome Roma to their temporary home. The home side known for never being easy to beat in Europe. Both sides pushing for an early goal. A ball played in from the home sides left was met by Fred, but a deflection took all of the power from the shot and fell comfortably into the arms of Alisson. Then a Kolarov corner was met by Dzeko unmarked in the Shakhtar box, but forced a brilliant save from the keeper. Dzeko again forced a save from the keeper after the 20 minute mark, firing first time as the ball was cut back by Perotti.

The Italian side were in the driving seat, and Dzeko continued to be a thorn in the Ukrainians side. Given far too much space just outside the box, the Bosnian turned and clipped a pass through the defence and into the young Turk Cengiz Under, who's shot squeezed under the goalkeeper and in. His first Champions League goal, 1-0 Roma right on half time.

The two sides came out for the second half and the home side had their wings up, and looking to equalise. Un-doing Roma's good work in just five minutes. Ferreyra running into the left channel, cut inside Manolas, and slotted it away brilliantly. The man who didn't get a sniff at Newcastle, brought his side level in the Champions League.

Shakhtar had Roma shaking, and very nearly had the lead two minutes after equalising. Brazilian Marlos bringing the ball down and curling towards goal from inside the box, forcing his countryman Alisson into a sublime save. Roma's keeper proving why Roma have slapped a £70 million price tag on him. And again less then ten minutes later, Taison struck, destined for the top right corner. Alisson showed cat like reflexes to bat the ball away.

But up steps Shakhtar's star man. Brazilian Fred has the world's biggest names lining up for his signature, and for anyone who doesn't know why, it explained it with one swing of his left foot. A truly sublime free kick, from the right hand side, in off the bar. Alisson had no chance. No keeper in the world would have any chance. The home side were ahead, 2-1.

There was time for one more exceptional save from Alisson, sprawling to deny Ferreyra his second from point blank range with what proved to be the last chance of the game. Roma take an away goal back to Italy, but the Ukrainian champions have a lead to defend.

Champions League Round of 16 - Part One

The very peak of club competition in Europe is back. The UEFA Champions League. The group stage is over and the round of 16 has begun, with four huge games taking place. The Champions of Europe Real Madrid facing off against Paris Saint Germain, or as Spanish publication Marca put it 'Champions vs Contenders.' The two most lethal attacks in England faced off against two giants of their respective domestic leagues. As FC Basel and Porto hosted Manchester City and Liverpool. And Harry Kane faced the task of breaking through one of Europe's most rigid back lines as Italian champions Juventus welcomed Spurs.

Juventus 2-2 Tottenham

Goals -  Higuian 2', 9' (P) - Kane 35' & Eriksen 71'

We'll start in Turin on Tuesday night. The atmosphere was electric for what promised to be a masterclass in defensive football against the in form striker in Europe. But is was the home side which fired first. After Dembele gave away a silly free-kick inside the first 30 seconds 35 yards from goal. The ball was clipped into the channel to the waiting Gonzalo Higuian who expertly took it first time on the volley into the bottom left hand corner. Lloris got a touch on the ball but not enough to keep it out.

Juventus started the game brilliantly, and they continued to cause problems for the visitors. The ball was played in from the left where Federico Bernadeshi beat Ben Davies to the ball and went down in the area. Penalty to Juventus. And much like the first goal, Higuian fired the ball into the bottom left corner. Lloris again getting his right hand to the ball but not enough to make the save. Inside 10 minutes the home side lead by 2.

It took going down by two for Spurs to finally show some signs of life. Harry Kane made a darting run into the box before going down just to the left of the six yard box. The referee however correctly judged it to not be worth a penalty. Then a beautifully played ball into the box by Christan Eriksen found it's way onto Harry Kane's head. Six yards out, he couldn't beat Buffon. The Italian producing an excellent point blank save, when the Englishman really should score. Harry Kane however wouldn't be denied again. Dele Ali played a perfectly waited ball through and Kane took it on his right, past the on rushing Buffon, before slotting it into the empty net with his left. Spurs have a crucial away goal and a way back into the game.

Enter Douglas Costs. The Brazilian made a sublime run down the left, taking two Tottenham players out of the game before being brought down in the box by Aurier, another Penalty. On the stroke of half time Higuian stepped up for his hat-trick, only to be denied by the cross bar after blasting the spot kick down the middle! The half ends 2-1 to Juventus.

As the second half began Juve kept us their masterclass performance, with Bernadeshi cutting in from the right and whipping the ball towards the corner. Hugo Lloris pulling out a big save to keep the deficit to one. But as the half went on Spurs played their way more and more into the game. This time is was Spurs winning a free-kick just outside the penalty area, and up stepped Christian Eriksen. A sublime free-kick, curling it down low, to the right of the wall, wrong footing Buffon and into the corner. The Italian, much like Lloris in the first half, got to the ball, but it still found it's way in. The English side had fought back level.

And that is how the game ended. A brilliant example of Champions League football. All to play for in London in two weeks time. Juve 2-2 Spurs.

FC Basel 0-4 Manchester City

Goals - Gundogan 14', 53' & Bernando Silva 18' & Aguero 23'

We're used to seeing City blow teams away at this point in the season and Basel welcomed the English champions elect with the hopes of stopping them. The first chance of the game actually fell to the home side, a ball over the back to Dimitri Oberlin, the Cameroonian striker beating Ederson to the ball but failing to make any real contact on he ball. This miss would cost the home side as City then turned it on. A corner from City's left was played into the near post, where Gundogan produced a brilliant header, inside the post, no chance for the goal keeper. The away side where one up after 14 minutes.

Less then four minutes later City where doubling their lead. Sterling played the ball across the box where Bernado Silva collected it and played the ball towards the top left hand corner. The Basel keeper made a mess of it, allowing the ball to go through his hand and into the net. City where out to end this tie quickly.

Up stepped EA's Premier League Player of the Month for January, Sergio Aguero to make it three for City five minutes after Silva's goal. Picking the ball up 30 yards from goal, he took one touch to set it before striking the ball into the bottom left corner. Again questions must be asked about the keeper who didn't even move. The Argentine striker is in fine form, and he had put the game beyond Basel inside 23 minutes. The rest of the half played out comfortably for the away side, ending the half 3-0 up.

With all the respect to Basel, City were in a class of their own on the night, as they have been for much of the season. And the goal of the game was to follow, Gundogan getting his second. As he stepped inside a defender and whipped a delicious shot into the bottom right corner. Coolness personified, the tie now surly beyond Basel's reach.

The away side easily could have had more but the game finished 4-0 to the Premier League leaders. A walk in the park for most of the night.

Porto 0-5 Liverpool

Goals - Mane 25', 53', 85' & Salah 29' & Firmino 69'

Portuguese side and hosts Porto have an exceptional home record in the Champions League, and welcomed five time European Champions Liverpool on Valentines day. Both visits to Porto for Liverpool in the past have ended in draws. A record they looked to end on the night. Despite their fierce front line Liverpool always look shaky at the back, and it showed in the opening minutes. A strike from the edge of the box deflected onto the roof of Karius' net with the keeper stranded, however it was a brilliant block by Lovren. However the English side then started to click. Gini Widjnaldum worked his way into the box, and after his shot was blocked he played the ball out to the waiting Sadio Mane. The Senegalese wide man slotted the ball under the goal keeper and into the net. For all their good work at the start of the game the home side were behind.

Porto then looked the side shaking defensively, and they were punished. A poor clearance was picked up by James Milner, who worked his way inside and rattled the post with a curling effort. Only for Mo Salah, the King of Egypt, to pick the ball up on the bounce, flick it over the keeper, then keep it up with his head, committing the defender and tap it into the empty bottom right corner. Quality from the winger, his 30th goal of an incredible debut season for the reds. It was 2-0 to the away side. Porto tried to find their way back into the game throughout the remainder of the half, but with no luck. The half ended with Liverpool in the driving seat.

No team in the world can tear a team apart on the break just like Liverpool, and Porto found that out minutes into the second half. Milner won it back just outside Liverpool's penalty area, and Mane played it into Firmino. A sublime flick out to the right found Mo Salah, who made up 30 yards instantly and played a pass through the defence back into Bobby Firmino. The Brazilian's shot was saved, but Sadio Mane fired in the rebound for his second and Liverpool's third. One foot in the quarter finals.

Liverpool were rolling, and Porto were at 6's and 7's at the back. Mane dispossessing his man in midfield, showing great strength to hold off the challenge before playing a pass into James Milner. The Englishman pulled it back into the on running Roberto Fimino, who mad no mistake this time and fired into the bottom left hand corner. 4-0. Liverpool's front three all on the score sheet. It was getting worse for the home side, the energy really sapped out of the stadium with this goal.

Mane saved the best for last however. A delightful flick over the defender into Danny Ings, the Englishman played it back into Sadio, with all the space in the world. He struck through the ball brilliantly, unstoppable to the keepers left, Mane had his hat-trick, Liverpool had five!

A masterclass from Jurgen Klopp's men who, much like Man City the night before, can almost start thinking about the next round! Porto 0-5 Liverpool.

Real Madrid 3-1 PSG

Goals - Ronaldo 45' (P), 83' & Marcelo 86' - Rabiot 33'

The last side the lift the famous trophy hosting many peoples favourites to be the next. The former most expensive player on the planet versus the current. Real Madrid taking on PSG. Out of form in the League, Madrid's season relies 100% on this competition. And the French league leaders would love nothing more then to end that season. The opening stages played out mostly in midfield, with the first chance coming for the home side. Kroos curling a left footed shot to the goalkeeper's right. The save was made easily enough, only for Marquinios to almost knock the ball into his own net. The ball luckily for PSG went behind for a corner, which came to nothing.

The home side continued to press, Marcelo looking brilliant from left back, and he darted down the left before playing a brilliant ball to the right for Cristiano Ronaldo to run onto. But the man on 99 Champions League goals for Madrid couldn't beat Areola in the PSG goal. Despite their early chances it was Madrid who found themselves behind just after the half hour. A ball played in by Mbappe was poorly dealt with by the Madrid defence, Neymar with a deft flick behind into the onrushing Frenchman Rabio. Who dispatched brilliantly to put the away side ahead.

The goal didn't do much to knock Madrid's attitude to the game, Ronaldo blazing over with his left when he really should have done better. And with minutes to go until half time a cleverly whipper left footed strike from Benzema was denied brilliantly by Areola down to his right. However from the resulting corner Kroos went down under a challenge from Meunier, too easily perhaps, but the referee pointed from the spot. For CR7 to fire expertly into the bottom corner for Madrid's equaliser and his 100th Champions League goal for Los Blancos. Capping off the half at 1-1.

Conceding right on the break seemed to light a fire under the away side, who came out flying in the second half. Mbappe firing across goal from right to left, forcing Navas into a good save. Dani Alves then arrived a fraction of a second too late to turn a cross into the net for his side, PSG were on top in the Bernabeu. However much like when they scored against the run of play in the first half, the hosts hit right back in the second. Substitute Marco Asensio made his way down PSG's right hand side and drilled in the cross. Areola at fault for the first time all game, parried the cross to the one man you don't want a ball to fall to in your box, Ronaldo. Who turned the ball off his knee with seven minutes to play for the holders to take the lead.

Marcelo who was sublime all night then put the nail in the coffin for PSG. Playing the ball down the left, first into Kroos then to Asensio, he struck a first time shot straight at the keeper. But a deflection off of a Paris Saint Germain defender made it unstoppable for Areola. The ball lifted past him and into the net, Madrid had struck twice in four minutes to put the tie massively in their hands. 3-1 to the holders.

There was time for a late Neymar chance, for the Brazilian to blaze over with the last kick of the game. The 12 time champions of Europe have a huge advantage going to Paris in two weeks time. But Rabiot's away goal means that the tie is still very much alive. Real Madrid 3-1 Paris Saint Germain.

All in all week one of the Round of 16 was an example of the elite level of European football. Liverpool and Manchester City both blowing away their opponents away from home. Spurs showing they can hang with the elite, and they don't come much more elite then Juventus. And Real Madrid answering their critics the only way they know how, winning in Europe. Onto week two.

Coming up -

Bayern Munich vs Besiktas

Chelsea vs Barcelona

Sevilla vs Manchester United

Shakhtar Donetsk vs Roma.

Liverpool 2-2 Spurs - WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

A game of two halves, two screamers, and two hugely contentious decisions. When Mo Salah jinked his way through two challenges inside the Tottenham penalty area and poked the ball over Lloris the game looked won. Before, following a knock down from a long throw into the box, Lamela threw himself down following a Van Dijk challenge. Referee Jon Moss waved it off, very confidently. Before the linesman rose his flag, calling for a penalty. Moss changed his decision, awarded the Penalty, and Harry Kane stuck away his second penalty to snatch a point.

Before going into the decisions, let's look at game that preceded them.

The game couldn't have gotten off to a better start for Liverpool. After a long ball forward by Karius, the ball bounced around the Tottenham defence. Eric Dier tried to play a pass back to his goal keeper, and paid the price. Top scorer Mo Salah latched onto the pass, racing through, before squaring up Lloris and calming slotting it into the bottom corner. 1-0 to the home side.

Anfield's crowd was in full voice for this encounter, and were nearly rewarded with a second goal after a James Milner shot was deflected, looped over the French goal keeper but just wide of the mark. Moments later a brilliant Alexander-Arnold cross found it's way onto Firmino's head, but he arrived on the scene a fraction too late and failed to gain the right contact.

 A few feisty tackles started to fly in down Liverpool's right. First from Ben Davies on Trent AA, which saw no decision given. And later in the half a flying Alexander-Arnold caught Davies in a very similar way, but was given a yellow card. The home crown started to get on the referee's back, Jon Moss, who infamously sent of Sadio Mane away at Manchester City earlier in the season.

The rest of the half went by without incident. A long range shot from Dembele forced a decent save from Karius; holding onto the shot down to his right. A late flag from the linesman could have lead to serious injury for both Lloris and Firmino, but the Brazilian brushed it off. At the break is was the home side ahead, and increasing their lead over Spurs in the table to five points.

Into the second half and Spurs came flying out of the blocks, and to the credit of the heavily criticised Liverpool defence, they looked organised, drilled and focused. A factor that has been overlooked by the main stream coverage of this match *SKY* was Virgil Van Dijk's leadership. You can hear him a mile away. His presence makes as big an impact on the Liverpool back line as his defensive qualities do. Even Karius heeded the screams from the big Dutchman, charging off of his line at a call to deny Son Heung-min at close range.

As Spurs dominated possession, Liverpool attempted to play on the break. Salah bursting away down the right, with an overlap on both sides to choose from. But a poorly laid pass lead to the attack breaking down, the best chance Liverpool had for the majority of the second half. The constant pressure from the North London side lead to a chance as Dele Ali broke into the area, before going down and being booked for diving. Drawing cheers from the Liverpool fans in the Kop, who had felt hard done by so far by the officials.

Then came goal of the season contender, number one. A ball was played in from Tottenham's left, attacking the Kop end. Karius met the cross, punching 30 yards from his goal. Before Victor Wanyama ran onto the loose ball and struck the most venomous of shots. Striking across the ball, causing it to start outside the post, and fly into the top corner. After the game Harry Kane joked that Wanyama's team mates had asked him to stop shooting from range. I'm sure those voices will have been silenced. Unstoppable springs to mind. A very much deserved equaliser for the away side, 1-1.

Spurs were bossing the ball, and any attempt at an attack from Liverpool was snubbed out by the Lilywhite's back line. Jan Vertonghen in particular who was sublime (again a performance ignored by mainstream coverage of the match.) What followed was talking point number one. Dele Ali won the ball in midfield and played a ball through to Harry Kane. The pass was under hit and made it's way to Dejan Lovren, when a bobble took the ball over the swinging foot of the Croatian to Harry Kane. Who latched onto the loose ball, rounded Karius and went down. Penalty. Upon second viewing you can see Harry Kane is a yard offside when the ball is played, and the contact from Karius is minimal. Now I am under the impression that the ball must actually be played by an opposition player, for an attacking player in an offside position to become active in the game again. Lovren did not play the ball. And once Kane rounds Karius, the 6ft2 English striker starts to go to ground way before any 'contact' is even made. Once the sleeves of the goal keepers jersey touches Kane's boot he goes down. The argument here is that any contact, no matter how slight, will knock a player running at full flight off balance. Kane was not at full flight. He has accelerated from 6 yards away, taking roughly five steps, before taking the touch around the goal keeper. I can see why the offside was not given, but Kane 100% dived.

All of the previous argument counts for nothing however. When Harry Kane stepped up, and hit the ball straight down the middle. Only for Liverpool's number one to call his bluff, and bat the ball away. It takes huge, to quote Tory Deeney, 'cajones' to stay in your spot when facing a penalty from the in form striker in the world. The games stays at 1-1.

The next ten minutes went by in a flash until the fourth official announced four added minutes. The penalty save had shot life back into the home side in their push for a winner. Enter, the Egyptian King. Goal of the season contender number two. Salah charged down the right before attempting a cross which cannoned back off of Dele Ali, a potential hand ball. Instead of standing around the league's second highest scorer recovered the ball. Showed great strength to hold off a challenge from Ben Davies; showed power to push off of his right foot, cutting past Vertonghen before having great composure to lift the ball past Lloris into the roof of the net. Anfield erupted and the game appeared won in the 92nd minute. 2-1.

Jurgen Klopp's trademark spring down the line in the bag, Spurs had one final throw of the dice. A long throw in from the right which was challenged for my Llorente and Van Dijk. Neither man got a real purchase on the ball as it dropped to the Dutch centre back. Facing the Kop end he swung to strike it clear. Before Eric Lamala charged in to challenge and went down holding his calf. Referee Jon Moss, who had what appeared to be a clear view, waved it off confidently and Liverpool cleared as the four minutes of added time ticked to a finish. This is when we reached, talking point number two.

The linesman flagged, the same linesman who Moss consulted and went against for the first penalty, swayed the mind of the man in the middle for the second. The view of the linesman was, not only obstructed by Liverpool full back Roberton, but also no greater then that of the referee. Now there is contact between Van Dijk and Lamela, but Jon Moss has 100% bottled the biggest decision of the game. The referee's thought process seems to be, initially, that contact was minimal and Lamela has played for the penalty, which is accurate. So what baffles me is his decision to allow the linesman to over ride the call. From viewing the foul over, you can see the Argentine winger throwing himself into the tackle and to the floor before he is in the vicinity of Virgil Van Dijk. He doesn't con the referee, but he does the linesman (who did also miss Lamela was offside from the initial knock down.)

Despite the cries from the Liverpool players Harry Kane had a second opportunity from the spot, and a second opportunity to join the 100 club for Premier League goals. No mistake second time round. Sticking it in the bottom right hand corner, equalising with the last kick of the game. 2-2.

Man of the match - Mo Salah.

What a game. What an advert for English football. What a goal scorer in Harry Kane. These are what you'll hear coming from the mouths of most pundits following the game. Despite Harry Kane barely having a sniff all night, he was given an extended interview on Sky Sports. Despite brilliant defensive displays by both Van Dijk and Vertonghen they were barely mentioned. A controversial end once again, over shadowed a brilliant game of football. Salah's second goal, which was describes as being a goal only Lionel Messi could score, was shown once on Sky in the analysis of the game. Where as the penalty decisions we're shown over and over again.

Where as I'm fuming with the coverage and analysis, Liverpool fans are fuming at the officials, claiming they cost the red men two huge points. Jurgen Klopp seems to be of the same opinion. certain that the first penalty was offside, and the second the referee was wrong to allow his decision to be overruled. Despite this the German manager was very complimentary of Spurs who came to Anfield and tried to play their game. A sublime game of football between two of the best sides in the country, battling for a place in the Champions League next season. Overshadowed by the officials and this countries idea that Harry Kane is the best thing since sliced bread.