What next?

Has the entry of 3 English Clubs into Europe's most prestigious cup competition underline English Premier League status now as THE BEST? While it was only previously claimed to be THE BEST.. I think after last night's matches, I would like to believe that at last English clubs are beginning to flex their authority over the rest of Europe. Thanks to their appeal and the amount of money going into the teams in the league.

Manchester United v Barcelona

This would be the ultimate match for me. It will be a match between two of the most exciting teams in Europe. Both with great flair and tenacity. United will come up against known foe in Thierry Henry and it would be great folly not to pay attention to him. Not forgetting Samuel Eto', Barca though may not see the form they had two seasons ago, the glittering list of players that includes the likes of Victor Valdez, Andreas Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Xavi, Gabriel Milito, Lilian Thuram and Gianluca Zambrotta cannot be taken lightly. While United welcomes back Mikael Silvestre and Gary Neville, and, probably can count on Gerard Pique to hold the fort with Rio while parading an exciting Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez, this match will be too close to call. The team that takes their chances well will go through and probably most deserving of the Cup. Then again, knockout games are cruel. It favours the team that rises to the occasion. For this, we turn to the other semifinal... an all English affair and probably a permanent fixture in Champions League for the past couple of seasons.

Liverpool v Chelsea

Liverpool, may have seen better times but in Rafa they trust... (good for us) While Chelsea, Avram Grant may struggle and grunt through this match and although sluggish, this team has the quality to pull through based on one man's brilliance. The thing is it can come from anyone.. from Drogba, Cole, Lampard, Essien, Kalou... this team oozes quality but I still think Grant does not have what it takes to take Chelsea all the way. My money is on Manchester United v Liverpool final in Moscow. Simply because Liverpool is a Cup team. They thrive on short objectives and it will be a fitting grudge final between two of England's most successful clubs. That will be a classic!