2002/2003 Champion's League Campaign

[hollowi]

I think Zul is right. LVG is a great manager - his achievements tell it all. And he's close to getting even more achievements with CL most wins in a row. (Yeah! Kluivert scored now against Sociedad :D). It looks fine for La Liga if we win this match (Now Kovacevic scored 1-1 :(). But winning would still be important because loss = bye bye league. After that we are only competiting for the CL spot next year.

Hope we win the game.

About the midfielders, I think that it would be best to use five mids until we (have to) buy a left back in January. The five could be Riquelme, Overmars, Mendieta, Xavi, Cocu in my opinion until Lucho can go on, after that, LVG could rotate the players.

For Saviola, it's stupidity to keep maybe the World's most talented attacker on the bench. LVG's tactics worked against Leverkusen but anyway they are a mediocre team.

[barça]

Got my tickets to see the Newcastle game!!!!!!

By the way Hollowi, I love Barcelona and its players, but to call Saviola possibly the World's most talented attacker? I think that is going a little too far. The guy is good, but not that good.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça
Got my tickets to see the Newcastle game!!!!!!



Lucky Bastard! :D

[funky6]

"barça" didn't you say you live in Spain's second city(in all issues)?:D.You travel from Madrid to Barcelona in some games

I agree with Azul.I've told that to yks_barca in the madrid forum.:D

[yks_barca]

Yep, I'm a lucky Bast@rd :p .. This is the advantage for a foreigner like me to study in UK to go and see the team i've dreamt in reality beat those English bastards :D !!..

I'm definietely going to see Newcastle VS Barca in march , anybody coming ? Probably, VivaBarcInter coz he's from Glasgaw :ronaldo:!

[yks_barca]

Here you go . . .

[barça]

Originally posted by funky6
"barça" didn't you say you live in Spain's second city(in all issues)?:D.You travel from Madrid to Barcelona in some games

I agree with Azul.I've told that to yks_barca in the madrid forum.:D

I do live in Madrid, but there is a air shuttle that takes all of 50 minutes and cost about 100 Euros. I am taking my kids as my tour of duty with my company is quickly coming to an end, so this is sort of like a going away present. (Man, am I going to miss Europe!!!)

Then I will be suffering in the USA just to get the games (I will listen to them in www.marca.com or www.ondacero.com). I need to tap into the British ex-pats, I am sure they have figured out to get Sky TV, legal or not.

Hey yks_barca, I won't be able to make it to the Newcastle game in England but I am hoping to be there for Barcelona's last game in Manchester sometime in May.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça




Hey yks_barca, I won't be able to make it to the Newcastle game in England but I am hoping to be there for Barcelona's last game in Manchester sometime in May.

Hell, if they're there for that game, i'll be there too.

[Olesen10]

You're lucky! I wonder, what's the price?

[yks_barca]

Between £20 - £30

Unless you want to sit in big leather seats as if you are on of those directors of the club ==> £45 !

[Olesen10]

OK. That's not so much if you don't also have to travel to another country, like you when they're in England. Have fun!

[Robledo]

Originally posted by yks_barca


I'm definietely going to see Newcastle VS Barca in march , anybody coming ? Probably, VivaBarcInter coz he's from Glasgaw :ronaldo:!

Me , I live in Newcastle:D :D :D

Btw, regarding this week's CL game. I hope Sir Bobby gets a good reception from the Barca public. He won 3 trophies in 1 season (including a European trophy), with very little money compared to LVG and Rexach.

He wasn't treated very well by the Barca directors, they signed LVG behind his back.I know many Barca fans were very sad to see him replaced that year.

Sir Bobby on his return to Barca
http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/newcastleunited/news/page.cfm?objectid=12434971&method=full&siteid=50081

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Robledo


He won 3 trophies in 1 season (including a European trophy), with very little money compared to LVG and Rexach.


Well, according to your article he did bring in Ronaldo and Giovanni. Either way, I hope he gets a good reception too. He deserves it.

[yks_barca]

Hope we'll win though !

When it comes to Europe, i have this feeling of winning !

But when it comes to Liga , I get so pissed that i sometimes feel ashamed of talking about football with me spanish mates :cry: !!

[Robledo]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA


Well, according to your article he did bring in Ronaldo and Giovanni. Either way, I hope he gets a good reception too. He deserves it.

True, Ronaldo cost in the region of 12m from PSV, and I think Giovanni was 5m. He didn't buy too many expensive players after that, he worked with the ones he already had.

Compare this with LVG. Overmars 25m (Crazy ! Arenal were laughing all the way to the bank, and bought Pires for a snip of the price), Petit 7m, Kluivert etc

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Robledo




Compare this with LVG. Overmars 25m (Crazy ! Arenal were laughing all the way to the bank, and bought Pires for a snip of the price), Petit 7m, Kluivert etc

LVG was gone when Overmars and Petit came aboard. He is credited with Overmars though. Kluivert's done well at Barca.

[Robledo]

Well the Barca VS Newcastle match has been called off !!!

The game will be played either tomorrow, or next Tuesday

It's a big disappointment for the 3000+ Newcastle fans that have travelled there. Most return home tomorrow, so if even if the game does go ahead tomorrow night, it's no good to them:mad:

[Olesen10]

Too bad! We would have kicked their asses! But now we have time to get even better...

[barça]

Originally posted by Robledo
Well the Barca VS Newcastle match has been called off !!!

The game will be played either tomorrow, or next Tuesday

It's a big disappointment for the 3000+ Newcastle fans that have travelled there. Most return home tomorrow, so if even if the game does go ahead tomorrow night, it's no good to them:mad:

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH

What about me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The radio here says that it will be played tomorrow, but I will also be gone by then.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

[relejado]

phuaaaa...that's pretty f*** up for you barca, i'm sorry ! but take the good side of it...at least we don't lose tonight...

[Robledo]

Originally posted by barça


AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH

What about me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The radio here says that it will be played tomorrow, but I will also be gone by then.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Sure, but are you from England mate? the 3000 Newcastle fans have spent £300+ (minimum) to get to Barca, to see no game ! There's going to be few/no Newcastle fans for the rescheduled game:mad:

[funky6]

This is the definition of being unlucky i guess.

I kinda waited for smthing strange to happen with all this talk about Robson's return in the Camp Nou(look at the bright side,atleast they had the chance to admire it):D

[BLAUGRANA]

Sorry you guys are gonna miss the match. Can't you just stay another night?

[barça]

No chance for me to stay, I am already back in Madrid as I have only 10 days left in the great continent of Europe and the moving plans continue. Did I mention that I will miss it? I will be cheering for the Metrostars???

Oh well, I know that I will be back for games, you can bet on that.

And the strange season continues.... I wonder what will happen next, besides the closing of the Camp Nou

[yks_barca]

Originally posted by barça
Got my tickets to see the Newcastle game!!!!!!.

All the eyes were spotted on you when you said it !! I guess that's why the match was delayed :D !

[relejado]

on TV I saw some fans, dancing in sombreros on the Nou Camp pitch during the rain storm. some of the newcastle fans really took the best out of it:D :D

[Robledo]

I just saw interviews with Barca fans on TV over here, and most wanted Newcastle to win , because they want Louis Van Gaal out !

Is that the general feeling of most Barca fans? Van Gaal out?

[yks_barca]

Maybe the majority say so, but for me ? I say '' NO ''

[J R R]

i heard that alot of people in Barcelona want him out and Gaspart out too, if you see alot of fans waving white hankies
before the game then aparently this means they want him
out

[funky6]

There is no man(never was and never will be) in this planet to make me wish for Barça to lose a single game in hockey.

Perhaps some ppl in Barcelona think it will be good for the team. I don't think so though.

BaaaaaarrrrrrrçççççççççççççAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!

[hollowi]

I'm not sure what kind of a fan is that who wants his team to lose just because they don't like the coach. To me it's almost the same who's the coach as long as we win (though we don't in Liga). And LvG could provide victories if he had been given more time (and money couldn't hurt).

[Robledo]

Barca 3 - Newcastle 1

Well done Barca. Although I think 3-1 was a little flattering, Barca deserved to win. I suppose this means alot of unhappy Barca fans in the Nou Camp tonight;)

[soccer fanatic]

Originally posted by J R R
i heard that alot of people in Barcelona want him out and Gaspart out too, if you see alot of fans waving white hankies
before the game then aparently this means they want him
out

I can understand those feelings but I doubt it will have a positive effect. Perhaps on the press issue, but not on the most important place, the field. Van Gaal is definetly in the danger zone, and he knows it. In an interview which was shown short ago he didn`t make a nervous impression at all though. Is he acting or just am man of stone?

[barça]

Originally posted by Robledo
Barca 3 - Newcastle 1

Well done Barca. Although I think 3-1 was a little flattering, Barca deserved to win. I suppose this means alot of unhappy Barca fans in the Nou Camp tonight;)

Sorry Robledo, Barcelona did play better and did deserve the win. I was a happy fan, although not as happy had I stayed for the game!

Good luck the rest of the way.

[Robledo]

Originally posted by barça


Sorry Robledo, Barcelona did play better and did deserve the win.


Erm yeah, that's what I said

[BLAUGRANA]

Yet another win in Europe! :D If we could only translate our form to the league...

A nice game for Overmars. I think his presence will help us improve in the league as it adds some much needed width to our game.

Again, our finishing leaves something to be desired. We need to capitalize on our chances.

The match could have gone differently considering the injuries to Cocu and Reiziger. Now Christanval should get more of a chance. While I'd like to see him sold, until Andersson returns I think he can play an important role.

A great way to go into the winter break (CL winter break anyway ;) ). We are in a great position to reach the QF's. Also, with every win we get some much needed $$$.

[BLAUGRANA]

Barca paid tribute to Sir Bobby Robson yesterday. He was given a plaque to commemorate the time he spent with the club. I'm glad we did this as it was well deserved and I have a lot of respect for Sir Bobby. He's really turned Newcastle around.

Sir Bobby:

"if Barca win and they're not against Newcastle, I'm always happy and even if they beat Newcastle, I can still raise a smile. Of the 50 years I've spent in football, my time here in Catalonia was amongst my happiest."

And about the game, he singled out Xavi and Overmars:

"they were the two key players tonight. I have to admit that I was surprised to see Dani in the starting line up. After tonight's result, I'd have to say that Inter and Barca look the favourites to go through."

[funky6]

What a great gentleman.He didn't stay long in Barcelona but he seems to have Barça in his heart and always talks great about the Club.

[relejado]

Originally posted by funky6
What a great gentleman.He didn't stay long in Barcelona but he seems to have Barça in his heart and always talks great about the Club.

agreed, 100% !

[yks_barca]

oh ya, he is ...

[nismo]

I can't wait when we meet next year, I'm expecting a real battle for supremacy in group D here.
I think it'll be even, Inter to win home leg, and to lose at the Nou Camp.
Cya at Nou Camp Feb 18

[barça]

It will be nice to see Cuper again indeed.

[gnlvagosov]

...& to send him back home with 0 points!:evil:
FORZA BARCA!!!

[eka]

with 0 points?:p:p:p:p:p:p
FORZA INTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[relejado]

well, right now, i fear we'll lose all 6 points...:( :(

[barça]

I don't think so, Inter does not scare me so much in Barcelona, they always seem to play a very conservative game away from home, a Cuper signature. Crespo should not be ready by then and Barcelona seems to be a very different team in CL.

I wonder if Cuper still sees Rivaldo's chilena in his dream.

[soccer fanatic]

Pretty sure Barca will win at home:cool:, even away Barca could get away with a point or points.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by soccer fanatic
Pretty sure Barca will win at home:cool:, even away Barca could get away with a point or points.

Agreed. I think we can go ahead and take both matches. Tough for me though, cause I like Inter too. It would be kinda nice to see Barca win both though. They need it more than Inter. Also, I could rub it in over on the Inter forum. They always sound like Inter are invicible over there.

[soccer fanatic]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
They always sound like Inter are invicible over there.

That is the only place they can get away with it.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by soccer fanatic
That is the only place they can get away with it.

And they don't even get away with it over there. I keep 'em in check. It's not all of them though mind you.

[soccer fanatic]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
And they don't even get away with it over there. I keep 'em in check. It's not all of them though mind you.

I know, I visited it for some time when Ajax had too play them.
If Barca beat the crap out of them I think I will stop by again. :)

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by soccer fanatic
I know, I visited it for some time when Ajax had too play them.
If Barca beat the crap out of them I think I will stop by again. :)

Well I'm there often enough. I have to keep 'em in check about a host of other things though too.

[Maarten]

I think its better that barcelona doesnot end within the first four in the PRIMERA DIVISION an d doesnot win the champions leaque. I think we should have a team who has time to recover and learn to play together as a team. In that way we can try again the year after. At this moment we're doing worse every year. I'm worried we're getting in a whole in which we won't be able to climb out.

lets think about the season 2004-2005

[Maarten]

can someone count how much money we're going to lose by not playing the champions leaque?

[funky6]

Who told you we are not?:D

It's football and you never know.Perhaps God wants us to win this year's c.l. and send everyone to a shrink.

[Maarten]

you like but saying that barcelona is playing wonderful in the champions leaque is not true. They have had a lot of luck with the teams. And they didnot play exceptionally good.

let's hope they can start properly and the second round. Now they have a real opponent "INTER" even thouh their main striker is out and Batistuta can't be used.

[funky6]

I know we were a bit lucky and i'm down to Earth.I have no faith in the squad but i'm not afraid of anyone and ofcourse not"INTER'' cause we are "FUTBOL CLUB BARCELONA" and you never know if a 4-0 comes like a bolt in camp nou(it's called alcoholism) especially in a tournament we are 10 times more experienced.Anyway we'll see.

Cheerz

[barça]

Originally posted by Maarten
I think its better that barcelona doesnot end within the first four in the PRIMERA DIVISION an d doesnot win the champions leaque.

Are you nuts! Don't come out now and say that you are an undercover Real Madrid fan:)

I would think that he loses would be in the tens of Millions of dollars.

[barça]

For those fans that live in the USA, Azul for example, the CL game that will be televised on February 18th by ESPN will be Barcelona-Inter.

Lets hope we play like Perugia played last Sunday against Inter and Cuper.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça
For those fans that live in the USA, Azul for example, the CL game that will be televised on February 18th by ESPN will be Barcelona-Inter.



WooHooooo!!! :D :silly: :p Problem is, I'll be torn between the two clubs. :eek: :( :confused: :annoyed: Barca are my true love though. Visca el Barca. :smoking:

[funky6]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
Barca are my true love though. Visca el Barca

(So what's going on with the smilies?I demand the yuck one and ofcourse the*cry of pride* one that i wanted to use it right now)

[KrayZ]

we couldn't beat Roma last year with roughly the same team (- JRR, Mendieta, whom Van Gaal doesn't play anyway) so how are we ever gonna beat Inter....:(.....and while Puyol is gonna be busy tussling with Recoba, Conceicao/Buruk?Dalmat are gonna take us to the cleaners....
*cries*
Is, by any chance, Andersson gonna be fit by then....?

[funky6]

We have a big chance of winning Inter in our field because we are Barcelona,no matter if our coach sucks and our squad is not great,and Gaspart is dumper than Homer Simpson.C.L has nothing to do with la liga.(i'm not implying Barça is great there because this difference in the performance never really existed-it's just a totally different tournament.)

Cheer up man,you stand for Barça who the fek is Dalmat and Buruk to depress yourself weeks before the game?

Barça!Barçaa!!Barça!!!
We'll play the hymno loud and they 'll shit their pants off!:D

[BLAUGRANA]

I'm not frightened by Inter. Dalmat has never really come good on his potential and doesn't even figure for Inter of late. I'd watch out for Emre and Recoba, but we'll have to see who plays for Inter. Cuper really likes to shuffle the lineup. Good thing for us is Crespo is out. He's been deadly for Inter in the CL this season. J Zanetti is worrysome on the left (Inter's right). I don't know who we have who can contain him. My only hope is for Overmars to keep him busy.

[J R R]

id be more worried about Inter if they had Crespo
but i agree with Azulgrana that J Zanetti will cause us
alot of trouble
i think we can win at camp nou, i hope so as i dont think we
will beat them in Italy
i bet someone ages ago Barca would win CL and i stand by it:)

[barça]

Azul warns about Emre and he is right. I have seen Emre play three times this year and he will be difficult to mark. Fast and furios with excellent left foot control.

[funky6]

He's also right especially about J.Zanetti who can have a party on our left side but about Recoba too.

I admit this Crespo thing was the first time i got a little happy about a professional player's injure.I don't wanna think what could have happened if he played and he still was in that scary form.What a misery for a Barcelona fan..

[FC Barca11]

For me the three most worrisome players (given that no injuries would include Crepso) would be Emre, Zanetti and Di Biagio. I still have the Ajax-Inter game in mind and Di Biagio and Crespo tore them apart. Our defence is no-where near as solidified as theirs but I think our attack is at par if not better than theirs. Hopefully we'll employ the "The best defence is offence" tactic.

[FC Barca11]

Actually now that we have acquired Sorin, our defence looks a lot better and safer so this game is really up in the air.

[yks_barca]

well ... i thought we would have won the match when we were
2-0 ahead .. but there you go .. defense again .. and a brave move from Puyol to clear the ball from the line ..

IT COULD HAVE BEEN 2-3 !!!!!!

Now we are closing to the relegation zone guys ...

[relejado]

Originally posted by yks_barca
well ... i thought we would have won the match when we were
2-0 ahead .. but there you go .. defense again .. and a brave move from Puyol to clear the ball from the line ..

IT COULD HAVE BEEN 2-3 !!!!!!

Now we are closing to the relegation zone guys ...

yes, but we also could have won that game !! i wish i could see the upcoming derby in barcelona, pressure is on both teams. and only a win can bring some peace to both teams...:eek:

[BLAUGRANA]

We can take the game to Inter if we play like we did against Bilbao. They have been tested in Europe and I don't think they're experienced enough in European football yet. They're fine in the Serie A, but when it comes to the CL they aren't as consistent. They're still dangerous though, make no mistake. We've all also forgot about one Inter play who can do the most damage. That's Bobo Vieri. Vieri is very dangerous and I hope we can contain him. He's do for a CL goal.

[relejado]

isn't Vieri injured ???

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by relejado
isn't Vieri injured ???

Yeah, but i don't think it's that serious.

[barça]

Overmars is fit to play. Sorin is out as he iot elegible to play. Andersson is back and elegible as is Gabri.

I expect the rest of the team to be the same as the last couple of games with Antic chaging either Andersson or Gabri for Sorin.

Sold out has been announced with about 5K italians.

Its so good to have the best competition in the world back.

----------Bonano-----------------------
Reizeger---Andersson--FBD---Puyol
----------Cocu----Xavi----------------
Overmars-------------------Mendieta
------------Saviola----PK----------------

[BLAUGRANA]

It's record breaking time! :smoking:

A win against Inter coupled with the derby win would be a huge boost for the squad. I hope JRR gets some playing time in this one. Inter's defense will be tough to crack. I think Overmars can create some havoc though if J Zanetti gets caught upfield. Hopefully our CD's can handle Vieri, he's do a CL goal I'd say.

[Olesen10]

Man, what a win yesterday! 3-0, and against Inter! :cool:
Xavi already showed his worth with that pass to Saviola and nice to see the two dutchmen score, especially Kluivert. He's deserved it, and he looked pretty happy too! Can't blame him though, he's stopped the critics.
With a new coach, new president, a 3-0 win against Inter and Lucho back, we're heading for more victories, I'm sure!

And we broke a record! :D

[yks_barca]

What a match for Saviola too ... I'm just wondering how this little guy passed through one of the BEST GIANT DEFENDERS in the world !!

Cannavaro was really ***ked up by the little rabbit !! 1st time he passed him and scored a marvelous goal , the 2nd time he dummied him and gave Kluivert to finish the match up !!

He dummied him many times :D ...

That's what i want to see from El Conejo ... !!

VISCA EL BARCAAA !! ESTAMOS EN HISTORIAAAAAAAAA !!

[KrayZ]

saviolaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!
the little guy had a terrific game....i still can't believe we won 3-0!!! i was thinking we would do well enough to scrape a one-goal victory against Cuper's side.....now ON TO BETIS!!
no wait, they're coming to us.....

[barça]

Great stuff from the team yesterday, their passing and ball possession were outstanding and unlike their other games, they held the ball with purpose.

Xavi has had two excellent games in a row, Saviola as well and finally scores. PK as well, he had promised it and he delivered. The defense played well, albeit a weak and insecure Bonano. We might see a Valdes back nto the team. I am not an Enke fan after the Novelda game.

unreal, this team in the CL.

[BLAUGRANA]

A great and historic win. Despite the record, one of those European nights to remember.

Xavi was great, again. I doubt we'll hear any criticism of him here for some time. He and Cocu controlled the midfield well and IMO that's where we won the game.

Saviola, the man of the match. The best performance i've ever seen out of him. I think a game like that will go a long way towards his maturing into great a player. Kluivert played very well too. They both worked hard on both ends of the pitch, especially Kluivert. And Kluivert had a nice finish. Finally. :D One more thing, he and Saviola have such a good understanding with one another. Makes it tough to wanna break them up.

Puyol was all over the back. A typical Puyol performance. The whole backline played well though. FDB took care of Vieri a couple of times. He seems much more calm and together with the 4-man backline.

Bonano scared me. I think Valdes AND Enke both need to be given another chance. I'd give Valdes a chance first.

Overall, a great performance. We're not out of the mess we're in yet, but this is a positive start. I also think we can get 3 points in the return leg in Milan.

PS--I went to the store to buy some new video cassettes right before the game so I could tape it. Thank goodness I did as I now have it and won't be taping over it.

[BLAUGRANA]

This from Sky:

"The team was perfect in every aspect," beamed the Serbian coach. "But this win was worth more than just three points.

"You have to excuse me for being so ecstatic, but everything we touched seemed to turn to gold.

"We are at the beginning of a great run and I really cannot see any limits with the way the team is playing.

"I can only congratulate the players and say that were all magnificent. They all played with bravery and were perfect.

"We have now created a record in the competition, but that does not mean that it stops here and that we will not go to Milan next week looking to win."

This from Barca's official website:

"We were very positive and it really feels like everything we do comes out right- we're on a good run. I'm very satisfied, but I'll be back with them on the training ground tomorrow."

Antic stressed: "maybe the way we played was even more important than the points. I planned the game so that we could exploit our speed. Saviola had a great game and won a lot of balls back, maybe him and Kluivert just need to shoot more often."

[BLAUGRANA]

This from the club's website:


Thiago Motta

"This was a big win for us. We needed it to keep our confidence high. Sunday's win against Espanyol was the turning point as far as our morale is concerned we're on our way back."

"I was very happy to be back in the starting line up."

"Maybe we've been too long without really enjoying our football. This was a sweet victory which wed like to dedicate to the fans."

Xavi Hernández

"We've got to try and keep up this level of football, but keep our feet firmly on the ground as well. I think we played a good all round game tonight."

"We seem to produce some good performances in Europe and tonight we showed what we can do against one of the top teams."

"We're all excited by our chances in the Champions, but it's still too soon to get carried away."

"We've improved a lot defensively. Our back four were very good tonight."

"I really enjoyed my game and I think the team was missing that. The crowd loved it too and I hope it proves to be the turning point in our season."

[BLAUGRANA]

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/kluivert/180203_Kluivert_gran.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54757_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54755_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54754_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54698_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54667_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/54664_600X400.jpg

[soccer fanatic]

Yeah I had a pretty damn good day tuesday. :smoking:

Good game of Barca, beating Inter with 3-0 is pretty damn good, I hope they will keep this up in the Liga too, I have confidence in that, the players looked sharper, more confident and relaxed, I must give that one too Antic.

[ilcapitano]

Congrats Barcelona, that was impressive. Saviola was really something...then again he played against Cannavaro, who has been Inter's worst defender lately. Incredible but true.

So Kluivert finally scored, but did it have to be against Inter. :(

Interesting replay coming next wednesday. I'm hoping for a revenge: 3-0...

[Veritas]

Fantastic game of Barca :D
Seems like we're on the way out of this damn crisis. :)
As for game with Inter, I'd like to point out the changes in Barca's game tactics.
Antic choosed the right tactics with minimum of senseless passing in midfield, quick and fast attacks and well utilized wings.
Of course we have to admit that Inter has 5-6 first-team players injured and this fact has definitely impacted on their game. But I think that even fully equipped Inter won't be able to resist us if we play like on Tuesday night. :)
Viva Barca ;)

[Veritas]

Originally posted by ilcapitano
Interesting replay coming next wednesday. I'm hoping for a revenge: 3-0...

I'm sorry man but I thing it will be another 0-3 for Inter. Cause you don't have Recoba now and Cordoba is doubtful. So you'd better pray not hope :D

[barça]

I hope ffor what Veritas talks about, but G. Meazza is a difficult place to go play. Milan's weather this time of year is always nasty, the pitch there is terrible as it gets played on every weekend bt both Milan and Inter. Plus with 9 points, I am thinking that Antic will play a little more conservative. Inter needs the win a lot more than Barcelona.

I hope the team is fully concentrated in Real Betis Balompie, last year and this year, every time the team won in the CL, they went out and played terrible in La Liga. Betis is fast, so I expect Cocu to lead the team in fouls and slow them down.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by ilcapitano


Interesting replay coming next wednesday. I'm hoping for a revenge: 3-0...

I doubt that will happen. Now Recoba and Cordoba miss the return leg. I think Barca can take another 3 points.

[Zek]

you've got the appetite pals :D

be ready for Betis whipping :silly:
the decisive moment for inter will be mental one, weekend win is all we need now, along with Cannavaro not making fool of himself again.

Congs to Barca though I am late but still you're played one of the best games in last years.

[barça]

Originally posted by Zek
Congs to Barca though I am late but still you're played one of the best games in last years.

Indeed we did, is it the start of something big???????:D

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça
Indeed we did, is it the start of something big???????:D

Let's hope so! :D

I'll be back on tonight to do some ass whoopin' on the Inter forum. It seems a certain someone (or rather someones) have been runnin' their mouths again. Time to set the record straight, again.

[hollowi]

Amazing win! I was worrying that we may not get the win record now since we had a real opponent (to face it, the last 10 wins we've had have been against teams of different level). Inter were really given a lesson, let's see next week though. If we win them, winning all games in both group stages is not far away. Now I'll have to see if my prediction got there in time :p

[Veritas]

Originally posted by Zek
you've got the appetite pals :D

be ready for Betis whipping :silly:

Well we whipped Betis as you advised us :D

Inter is next :D :D :D

[Zek]

:rolleyes:

[Zek]

still 3 points from relegation :ronaldo:

[barça]

Originally posted by Zek
still 3 points from relegation :ronaldo:

What table are you looking at?

[Veritas]

Well he is right barca............. yet :)

8 Barcelona 30
17 Valladolid 27

[barça]

Originally posted by Veritas
Well he is right barca............. yet :)

8 Barcelona 30
17 Valladolid 27

I don't think so, check 18th place, that where relegation starts. Espanyol 22:confused:

[Veritas]

Originally posted by barça
I don't think so, check 18th place, that where relegation starts. Espanyol 22:confused:

I don't think it's something we should discuss. The most important thing is that we're performing well now and hopefully rich Depor (which will definitely be the challenge) :)
The way Barca playing makes me optimistic :)

[KrayZ]

i can't believe it, we did the unthinkable.....we actually grinded out a point against a tough opposition away from home.....
that's so....so.....un-barca.....:)

[barça]

Cocu is out for two months:( :(

[BLAUGRANA]

Photos from the San Siro:

http://www.soccernet.com/images/england/20030226/dalmatrochemback_megerton.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/56257_400X600.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/56256_400X600.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/56193_600X400.jpg

http://www.fcbarcelona.com/imagenes/jugadores/futbol/kluivert/260203_Kluivert_gran.jpg

http://www.inter.it/media/raw/2003-02-27_011701.jpg

http://www.inter.it/media/raw/2003-02-27_011543.jpg

[soccer fanatic]

Congrats too Frank de Boer on becoming the split record holder on most clubteam EC matches (117).

Only too bad Barca didn`t get the record of longest winning streak in EC toiurnaments. They have it in CL but not overall.

Still must feel good for the people who support the team who still holds that record, whichever team thast may be. :angel:

Too bad for Cocu, we will miss him, and I`m talking about both Barca and the Dutch NT.

[FC Barca11]

I was just looking at the fixture list for La Liga and one possible match up seems very very mouth watering. As you all know we lead the group and a single point will see us through to the next round. Well if Real Madrid finish second in their group and we get drawn against them, then in April this would be the fixture list


April 08/09 Champions League Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 20 La Liga Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 23 Champions League Game Barcelona vs Real Madrid

HEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHE :) :) :) :)



Again this is only a possibility and I would rather face Real Madrid or an other team in the final (granted we make it to the final).

[barça]

Originally posted by FC Barca11
April 08/09 Champions League Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 20 La Liga Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 23 Champions League Game Barcelona vs Real Madrid


That's incredible. I will be those weeks in Spain, maybe I will see them all:D

[yks_barca]

God , are you sure about it ?

If we are 1st and Madrid 2nd in their group , we'll meet each other in the last 8 ?

Shit !!!! i don't believe it .. we are wrecked !

[barça]

Originally posted by yks_barca
God , are you sure about it ?

If we are 1st and Madrid 2nd in their group , we'll meet each other in the last 8 ?


Could, not will. The 1st places get paired with the 2nd places.

[yks_barca]

Well, that means that the chance of playing them IF they are 2nd is 25% !! Not to bad is it :)

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça
That's incredible. I will be those weeks in Spain, maybe I will see them all:D

I hate you! ;)

[lili]

Originally posted by FC Barca11


April 08/09 Champions League Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 20 La Liga Game - Barcelona vs Real Madrid
April 23 Champions League Game Barcelona vs Real Madrid

HEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHE :) :) :) :)
Again this is only a possibility and I would rather face Real Madrid or an other team in the final (granted we make it to the final).

Don't be worried. I'll comfort you.:D ;)

[Veritas]

Originally posted by yks_barca
Well, that means that the chance of playing them IF they are 2nd is 25% !! Not to bad is it :)

As far as I know - if Barca finishes on 1st place and Real on 2nd, then we MUST be seeded against Real, because both of us from Spain.
So there is 100% possibility that we'll play with them on quarterfinal :dontcare: and it seems to be worse.

[Olesen10]

Having three Barca - Real Madrid matches in a row...! :)
Man, that sounds tempting. However, if that should happen, I won't be able to raise my voice for at least a week after...! :D

[Veritas]

Originally posted by Olesen10
Having three Barca - Real Madrid matches in a row...! :)
Man, that sounds tempting. However, if that should happen, I won't be able to raise my voice for at least a week after...! :D

You damn right man :D

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by lili
Don't be worried. I'll comfort you.:D ;)


HA........cute.......:)

[FC Barca11]

Originally posted by Olesen10
Having three Barca - Real Madrid matches in a row...! :)
Man, that sounds tempting. However, if that should happen, I won't be able to raise my voice for at least a week after...! :D

You're so right its not even funny. ;)

[BLAUGRANA]

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/58011_400X600.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/58012_600X400.jpg

[lili]

Worried Barca faces???? ;)

Looks like Saviola solved the problem.:smoking:

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by lili
Worried Barca faces???? ;)



:confused: Who's worried?

[barça]

Riquelllllmeee
Riquelllllmeee
Riquelllllmeee

What a great game from JRR. For those of us that were lucky enough to see this game on TV :D You missed probably the best game that JRR has played for Barcelona. All that was needed for it to have been an incredible game was for him to score or for his teammates to had done better with his perfect passes. Xavi missed an incredible opportunity after JRR attracted and dribbled passed variuos defenders.

Saviola was hit hard right before the half and was taken out at halftime, a wise move by Antic.

The first 5 minutes of the game almost gave me a heart attack, but then a great pass to Overmars, who took it deep on the right side and crossed to Saviola, whose first touch was great and did not miss.

First place, no matter what happens. The team can now relaxed against Newcastle and wait for the draw.

[BLAUGRANA]

Another CL win today. If we can keep this up...

Anyway, a comfortable win that gets us through. I still want another win though against Newcastle. Every win means more $$$ for the club. I'd like to see Antic give the youngsters like Iniesta a full 90 minutes against Newcastle though. I'm sure he'll give some of them a start.

Nice goal by Saviola today. Nothing spectacular, but make no mistake. Too bad Big Frank didn't get the goal. I'd have liked for him to get on the scoresheet. The defense looked better as the game wore on, but they're still not as convincing as I'm sure we'd like them to be. A bit of a different defense though with Sorin missing and Andersson in.

Let's just hope this ball keeps rolling to Old Trafford. :smoking:

[BLAUGRANA]

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/58308_400X600.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/58255_600X400.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/58245_400X600.jpg

[barça]

Excellent pics Blau, the second one is the hit on Saviola that scared me a little. it was right at the end of the first half and Antic subbed him out at the half.

[nene]

Congratulations !!! We'll see If My Real can keep up with your guys.... :cap:

[Veritas]

DAMN, DAMN, DAMN
I'm sooooooooo much unhappy that I haven't seen this game :(
Very nice to hear that JPR played so good. Team is playing better and better and hopefully we'll qualify for next year CL. :)

[relejado]

indeed, it was another win in CL for barca and a good game for riquelme. but i must say, that barca did not convince me at all yesterday, and also against inter. especially the attacking force of barca. we played without passion and ideas to break the weak leverkusen! we played boring football. ok, leverkusen defendet with eleven players, but I expected more! riquelme had some nice moments and beautyfill touches, but we still miss a passionat player like lucho !! somebody who can guide the team to create chances, somebody with an enormous amount of ideas and visions.

last game against inter was another example of improved defensive work, but we could't manage more than some counter attacks. neither mendieta nor riquelme were able to create dangerous chances. i was a little bit disappointed! take newcastle yesterday night, for example. they were able to create chances and played nice football. if newcastle play the same football against barca...the goodnight barcelona :(

i hope i'm not tooooo pessimistic, though

[lili]

Originally posted by BLAUGRANA
:confused: Who's worried?

the Barca team on the pic. ;)

[lili]

Originally posted by nene
Congratulations !!! We'll see If My Real can keep up with your guys.... :cap:

Sure we can. And we will. :cap:
If damned Milan doesn't kick us out tonight. Huh, I'm worried.

Congratulations for the classification, Barca fans.:)

[barça]

Game against Newcastle coming up for Antic to try new things. First Valdes should start and Gerad returns to the team, he got hurt about 6 weeks ago. JRR is somewhat hurt and I would think he stays in the bench, Saviola did not travel with the team. Iniesta should start as should Oleguer.

There is nothing to loose for Barcelona, 1st place is secured. Maybe the first loss for Antic?

I am hoping for a great game from Victor Valdes, so that he can see his way into the starting line up. Gerad is the guy that is best fit to replace Cocu, so I am hoping for a good showing as well.

Either Nano or Sergio should be the player in for Saviola. If I am an Inter fan, I would think that Newcastle will win this game.

[yks_barca]

Well ... Barca has nothing to lose .. yes .. and probably will play in their reserve team .. Maybe first lose with Antic !!

I got the ticket at last :D ... Although with Newcastle supporters but i can atleast see the match with the intention that Newcastle MUST win .. i hope we won't get thrashed .. hahahaa

[barça]

Have a great time at the game. Do please post a game report.

[Atalla]

the Newcastle match should see Barcelona trying to experiment with their lineup....

Puyol and Saviola will be out for sure.....

and, as mentioned before, Valdes will be the goalkeeper.....

hopefully Antic will realise that closing down Shearer and Bellamy will go a long way in helping us defeat Newcastle, even with a second string squad......

[BLAUGRANA]

Along with Valdes, other youngsters Iniesta, Sergio Garcia, Nano and Oleguer will be part of the squad.

[BLAUGRANA]

Well, with the layoff it's been a while. Anyway, we won yet again versus Newcastle. Now it's the QF's and Juve. An exciting draw to say the least. I think we can take 'em. The league is still the priority IMO, but we should gun for both. JRR is coming into form at just the right time and it'd be nice to see him work his magic against Juve.

[Atalla]

i was surprised with the victory over Newcastle to tell you the turth, not because we won, but because we performed when nothing was at stake, wheras we have wasted a few chances against Alaves when we had a lot on the line. things are wierd over there at the Nou Camp

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Atalla
i was surprised with the victory over Newcastle to tell you the turth, not because we won, but because we performed when nothing was at stake, wheras we have wasted a few chances against Alaves when we had a lot on the line. things are wierd over there at the Nou Camp

I wasn't too surprised. There was $$$ to play for. I think the team is taking all of these matches pretty seriously. They need to stay match fit too as we're truly in the stretch run right now. Every game is a final at this point.

[lili]

Neither was I. Barca is the best team in CL after quarters, their points are speaking for them.
I expect a tough match against Juve, but Barca should win it and i'm going to cheer for you in that match. Only because spanish clubs are on the top of my priority list. ;)

[barça]

Time to start talking it up. Into the QF in arguably the best QF ever in the history of this CL format. All 8 teams can say they have a legit chance for the title. All, except Valencia have won the title and Valencia has had two finals.

Obviuosly no Sorin, but the defense has been playing great under antic. ZZ said today that he fully expetcs Juve to make it through. I am not so sure. By the tiem of the game, I would hope that Valdes has made it into the starting XI. I expect Barcelona to win the possesion game and I think we have an advantage of speed up front with Saviola and Overmars.

I also think that Xavi will have some space to work with, Davids will hack and hack, but I expect that with the qucik passing game of the team, Barcelona will hold the ball more.

Danger will come from the quick counters of Neved, Del Piero and Trezegol.

Can't wait. Thoughts???

[Olesen10]

It's gonne be a tough match. Juventus is very strong, but with Barcas last perfomances, I can't help thinking optimistic!
Barca can win this match, but we have to play better than any of the games so far to beat Juve IMO.

[J R R]

yeah i agree its going to be a tough one but i really think barcelona can do it. i bet before the start of the season barca
would win CL and i still think they can

cant wait for this game either

[yks_barca]

Well. the 2nd leg is going to be in the Camp Nou, and that's an advantage i think ...

Our unbeatable run in the Champions League will stop in Turino, but we'll be able to get through once they come to the Nou Camp ..

that's my prediction for this quarter final match ..

Let's hope for the best ..

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by yks_barca
Well. the 2nd leg is going to be in the Camp Nou, and that's an advantage i think ...

Our unbeatable run in the Champions League will stop in Turino, but we'll be able to get through once they come to the Nou Camp ..

that's my prediction for this quarter final match ..

Let's hope for the best ..

I think we can earn a draw in Turin. Why not? A draw in Turin and a win at home would be just perfect.

[lili]

At least Barcelona should go for a draw in Torino. What I've seen from Juve, they are playing the best soccer in Italy this season, but still they have some weak points. I'm almost 100% Barca will play semi-finals, maybe with us.;)
Well, we all know, how that will end.:evil: :D

[Maarten]

0-4 and 3-0 in the favour of barcelona

:)

[lili]

Originally posted by Maarten
0-4 and 3-0 in the favour of barcelona

:)

you mean the match with Juve, right?:D

[GicaHagi]

Hi from Turkey,how about keepers?Valdes s a good player but,there are 2 natural born keeper on earth now;1 is Buffon other is Rustu.