By Staff Writer Morganne Guhl
With the Quarter Finals wrapped up for the Champions League, a surprise victory occurred, and the two favorites for the tournament marched on to the semi-finals.
Firstly, Manchester City stomped Bayern Munich out of the competition by a four-to-one goal deficit. This match-up was decided in the first meeting after Bayern fell three goals to nil at Man City’s home match. Perhaps it may finally be Man City’s year to win the tournament after multiple years of disappointing exits. However, they are about to face the other tournament favorite and team that has won this trophy double more than any other team, Real Madrid. Real Madrid made quick work of Chelsea F.C., scoring four times non-answered over two legs. While it’s easy to argue Real Madrid will finally fall to Man City, with their superior bench, Real Madrid can’t be ruled out yet. Madrid will undoubtedly face Man City with their unshakeable confidence that has netted them this trophy fourteen times.
The other half of the table brought forth a stunning elimination. AC Milan knocked out Napoli two to one over their matches. Napoli, who will most likely be crowned Serie A champions in short order, showed their inexperience against a team full of veteran players. It should be noted AC Milan has won the UCL the second most behind Real Madrid at seven, though not since 2007 have they lifted the trophy. It’s unlikely they will win it this year, but after taking out the dark horse team of the competition, they must be gaining in belief. Finally, Inter Milan saw off Benfica five to three in a final game with six goals total. Like Man City verse Bayern, one would have thought this match-up would have been closer, but Inter Milan proved their mettle and now entered the semi-finals against AC Milan. Interestingly, both teams share the same stadium making the upcoming matches the perfect atmosphere for both teams’ fans. Who will lift to trophy can’t be said for sure, but one has to believe Man City or Real Madrid are feeling particularly empowered this week.