In a surprising twist on Wednesday, everyone got what they deserved--except the fans. Barcelona dominated the game and deserved to win. Man U set out with an uninspired lineup to play conservatively, and lost. From a neutral standpoint, the game didn't live up to expectations, which were ridiculously high.
"Goals change games" the old saying goes, and it never looked truer than Wed. night in Rome. United opened the game attacking with confidence, and Ronaldo came close early on from a free kick. Dead ball, scoring range, worldwide audience: the stage was set for the preening superstar, but Victor Valdes shone brighter in saving and Barça dodged a bullet. Against the run of play, Samuel Eto'o turned Vidic inside out and toe-poked past Van der Sar on the near post. This was where the game slipped out of United's grasp. Barcelona were probably always the stronger side but with three defenders missing, Manchester United had a great opportunity to take advantage. Now Vidic and Van der Sar, stalwarts of United's record run of clean sheets looked weak and vulnerable. The game plan was out the window. The lineup looked all wrong. Man U's storied confidence sagged, and they played like beaten men from then on.
On the other side of the ball, Barça played like they had a four or five goal lead. They held the ball, outworked their opponents, and showed everyone what all the fuss had been about. Their makeshift defense was rarely tested. Their midfield prowess was on display for all to see. Pre-game, Ferguson and Guardiola both talked about attacking, positive play, but only Barça lived up to the promise.
Deserved winners, fun to watch, Guardiola's men set the standard for European excellence this year. Hopefully, Europe's football powers were taking notes. Wouldn't it be nice if we saw a "Barcelona Effect" next year in the same way we've seen a "Greece Effect" in years past? Skilled, controlled attack could become all the rage. We can only hope.
-- Post From My iPhone
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