The second Build up begins!
After both teams have played their matches in their local leagues this weekend, they will both be looking forward to the game ahead. Both sets of fans have been waiting anxiously for Wednesday nights game, and each team will feel that they have a shot at reaching the final.
With Manchester United holding the edge over Milan, as they come into the next round. But Milan will feel confident too, as they have two away goals and they play the next game at home, in the magnificent San Siro.
Milan have an almost fit squad, after they suffered injuries to Gattuso and Maldini in the first tie at Old Trafford. Gattuso has been declared fit and ready to play, while Maldini is said to be a doubt. The loss of Gattuso and Maldini in last weeks game saw Milan's 2-1 lead over the Red Devils disappear to a 3-2 loss. However the "snowling dog" has been past fit, and there is no doubt that he will be running around, picking up those loose balls and trying to block off Ronaldo.
There are some worrisome faces on the side of the Rossoneri about Maldini. If Milan don't qualify for the final, and Maldini isn't past fit to play this week. He might have already played his last Champions league game, without anyone realising it. For someone of his experience many would be sad to see that his last game ended in his being substituted at half time due to injury. Neutrals around the world feel that someone of his calibre deserves at least one last title to his name, and one last game for him to be remembered by the Great that he is.
Ancelotti managed to rest most of the squad on on Saturday evening, seeing Seedorf playing only 65mins, and Ambrosini 45. While suggestions that Inzaghi may start on Wednesday as Gilardino played the full 90 alongside cup-tied Ronaldo. And Kaka didn't even step onto the field, along with Oddo. While Jankulovski came on for the last 15mins or so.
Nesta, Dida, Pirlo and Bonera played the whole game. And Carlo can be proud of a fine performance from Nesta. After four months out on the side lines, Nesta has come back in fine fashion, and is proving why he is one of the best in the world. Bonera who could possibly play in the centre of defence alongside Nesta, if Maldini isn't passed fit, had a steady game too.
But the players to watch will be Seedorf and Kaka. As the two are in great form, Seedorf had a great first half against Torino scoring the winner and netting his eighth goal of the season. His personal best in top flight football. Seedorf often frustrating at times, has picked the right moment to hit form this season, as the game against Bayern was the turning point. While Kaka, who is fully rested and is in fine form, is looking forward to this clash just as much as the fans. With Seedorf and Kaka in fine form, Milan can certainly grab a win.
In the record books, Milan have never lost at home to Manchester United, their last win coming in 2005 with a 1-0 win, Crespo the goalscorer. Here are all the statistics: http://www.acmilan.com/NewsDetail.aspx?idNews=45430
Man Utd have been boosted with the possible return of Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, and Neville could also return. With a make shift defence in recent games, Man Utd can remain calm with the return of Vidic and Ferdinand. However, Evra will miss the trip as he will be serving his suspension.
With Manchester United holding the edge over Milan, as they come into the next round. But Milan will feel confident too, as they have two away goals and they play the next game at home, in the magnificent San Siro.
Milan have an almost fit squad, after they suffered injuries to Gattuso and Maldini in the first tie at Old Trafford. Gattuso has been declared fit and ready to play, while Maldini is said to be a doubt. The loss of Gattuso and Maldini in last weeks game saw Milan's 2-1 lead over the Red Devils disappear to a 3-2 loss. However the "snowling dog" has been past fit, and there is no doubt that he will be running around, picking up those loose balls and trying to block off Ronaldo.
There are some worrisome faces on the side of the Rossoneri about Maldini. If Milan don't qualify for the final, and Maldini isn't past fit to play this week. He might have already played his last Champions league game, without anyone realising it. For someone of his experience many would be sad to see that his last game ended in his being substituted at half time due to injury. Neutrals around the world feel that someone of his calibre deserves at least one last title to his name, and one last game for him to be remembered by the Great that he is.
Ancelotti managed to rest most of the squad on on Saturday evening, seeing Seedorf playing only 65mins, and Ambrosini 45. While suggestions that Inzaghi may start on Wednesday as Gilardino played the full 90 alongside cup-tied Ronaldo. And Kaka didn't even step onto the field, along with Oddo. While Jankulovski came on for the last 15mins or so.Nesta, Dida, Pirlo and Bonera played the whole game. And Carlo can be proud of a fine performance from Nesta. After four months out on the side lines, Nesta has come back in fine fashion, and is proving why he is one of the best in the world. Bonera who could possibly play in the centre of defence alongside Nesta, if Maldini isn't passed fit, had a steady game too.
But the players to watch will be Seedorf and Kaka. As the two are in great form, Seedorf had a great first half against Torino scoring the winner and netting his eighth goal of the season. His personal best in top flight football. Seedorf often frustrating at times, has picked the right moment to hit form this season, as the game against Bayern was the turning point. While Kaka, who is fully rested and is in fine form, is looking forward to this clash just as much as the fans. With Seedorf and Kaka in fine form, Milan can certainly grab a win.
In the record books, Milan have never lost at home to Manchester United, their last win coming in 2005 with a 1-0 win, Crespo the goalscorer. Here are all the statistics: http://www.acmilan.com/NewsDetail.aspx?idNews=45430
Man Utd have been boosted with the possible return of Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, and Neville could also return. With a make shift defence in recent games, Man Utd can remain calm with the return of Vidic and Ferdinand. However, Evra will miss the trip as he will be serving his suspension.
Rooney and Ronaldo will be a thorn once again in Milan's side, as both are in great form. All will be left for Nesta to prove his class and and hold that defence together. His leadership and skills will be required on the night more than ever, if the immortal Captain Maldini doesn't return in time.
An exciting clash, and both teams can hold their heads up high. Who will win the second battle between Kaka and Ronaldo? Which defence will hold their wits, and remain calm? Who will make the final? So many questions that can only be answered on Wednesday night. This is bound to be a sure classic.
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