
By Mike Corasaniti
The two Spanish clubs have some of the stiffest competition standing in their way of a quarterfinal matchup.
But both teams have the tools to advance, and set up another El Clasico with much more on the line.
How Madrid gets there
It’s not Manchester United’s season by a long shot, but they did still dominate their play in the group stages, albeit in one of the weaker groups in play.
Madrid has shown that they can shut down offensive attacks, but will they be able to slow down RVP? That alone will probably decide the fate of the series.
How Barcelona gets there
There’s no one better in the world right now than FC Barcelona. Behind Lionel Messi and his record-setting 2012 has the opportunity to match it’s potency in this upcoming year as well.
They should have little trouble with AC Milan who have been struggling so far this season, currently in seventh place with just 27 place in Serie A play. With all of their different player transaction distractions, it’s hard to imagine Milan being focused enough to pull off what would turn out to be a major upset.
The Matchup
It’s Sunday, so I’ll keep this one short.
If Madrid can prove that they have the defensive capability to shut down the likes of RVP and the rest of the Man United attack, than that’s a step in the right direction in shutting down Barcelona. Unfortunately, they’re going to need much more than a step if they want to shut down Messi, especially after the year he just had.
FC Barcelona 4-1