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AC Milan - Milanfan.com _ Archive 06/07 _ 23.5.07- Milan vs Liverpool

Posted by: misha May 2 2007, 10:25 PM

QUOTE
2006-2007 UEFA Champions' League final

Wednesday, 23 May 2007, 20:45 CET

Olympic Stadium, Athens, Greece
*

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 2 2007, 10:28 PM

REVENGE !!!!!!!!

Posted by: misha May 2 2007, 10:42 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 3 2007, 12:28 AM)
REVENGE !!!!!!!!
*

Big time.

This will be the day we all waited since Istanbul. Finally a chance to bury all these daemons from that cursed game.

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 2 2007, 10:55 PM

How do you know we'll get the red and black strip for the final?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 2 2007, 10:58 PM

Milan will thrash Liverfool !!!!


We will make them feel that revenge is a b1tch !!!!!!


Gattuso and Maldini will want this more than anyone else ... Kaka has never won a CL !!!


And Dida will get his chance to show the WHOLE WIDE WORLD that he is the #1 KEEPER !!!!!!

Grande Milan

Posted by: misha May 2 2007, 11:03 PM

QUOTE (fresh_prince7 @ May 3 2007, 12:55 AM)
How do you know we'll get the red and black strip for the final?
*

The home team get to choose their kits. We are a 'home' team for this game and our preferred and main kit is red & black. Also we played in white in 2005 final and I don't think Milan would go for it again

Posted by: Bluesummers May 2 2007, 11:11 PM

I PREFER RED AND BLACK ALL THE WAY. COMON RIISE, I WANT YOU TO TRY AND STOP KAKA! TIME FOR REVENGE! THIS FINAL IS FOR MALDINI. FORZA MILAN.

We have proved to the world that milan is one of the best! A final from this season!!! A season which most people thought we wouldnt' get to the quarters! Carlo is a brilliant man, what a difficult job. Most people would crack and go nuts and try to leave like our previous number 7, but thanks to everyones effort and kaka's brilliance we made it to the final. I have to say that kaka is doing perfectly covering for the lack of finishing.

Posted by: dst May 2 2007, 11:36 PM

Keep it down guys... it's not a walk in the park! sleep.gif

Posted by: redbabies May 2 2007, 11:42 PM

what worries me is the tag of favourite that we will be considered.

I want people to consider it 50-50 devil.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 2 2007, 11:47 PM

I Liverpool to be the favourites, so less pressure on our players....
anyhoo I really hope we win smile.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 2 2007, 11:51 PM

Vendetta.

Posted by: jefri91 May 3 2007, 12:03 AM

ummmmmmmm are we home or away?

Posted by: andi_sant May 3 2007, 12:10 AM

It's time for revenge devil.gif

My prediction:

Milan 3-0 Liverpool (Kaka hattrick) devilsmiley.gif

If we can beat MU, why can't we beat the other English team? biggrin.gif

FORZA MILAN

Posted by: Portikins May 3 2007, 12:12 AM

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 3 2007, 12:03 AM)
ummmmmmmm are we home or away?
*

This time... we're the home team.

Posted by: andi_sant May 3 2007, 12:47 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 06:12 AM)
This time... we're the home team.
*


By the way, 2 years ago we're also the home team.

We should wear the home jersey (red black) but we use the away jersey (white).

As you know, we loose sad.gif

This time we must wear the red black jersey devil.gif

Posted by: misha May 3 2007, 12:51 AM

Maldini sets sights on Athens

Paolo Maldini missed the second leg through injury, but is confident of playing in the Champions League Final against Liverpool.

“I am not used to being on the sidelines, so it was painful for me. I knew the team was in good shape and we have proved once again that back in October when we said we’d reach Athens those were not just words,” said the Milan legend.

“Despite all the injuries and various other problems that we have dealt with, we have been brilliant and I am proud to be captain of a team like this.” king.gif king.gif

Maldini played in the first leg 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford, but went off at half-time with a recurring knee problem.

“I have a similar injury to the one I had last season, so I have every intention of carrying on next term. If we had been eliminated I would’ve undergone surgery immediately, but instead I will do everything I can to be ready for the Final in Athens.”

The clash is against Liverpool, a repeat of the 2005 Final that Milan lost on penalties despite Maldini getting an early goal.

“It will be my eighth Final and after two years we still want to take centre stage. This side is not afraid of anything.”

Posted by: Portikins May 3 2007, 01:05 AM

QUOTE (andi_sant @ May 3 2007, 12:47 AM)
By the way, 2 years ago we're also the home team.

We should wear the home jersey (red black) but we use the away jersey (white).

As you know, we loose  sad.gif

This time we must wear the red black jersey  devil.gif
*

Oh, we chose the white one? I didn't know. Maybe because he was our "lucky" kit until Istanbul (never lost with that one in the CL final).

This time, I believe we're going to be as usual - rossoneri (red and black).

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 01:28 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ May 3 2007, 01:03 AM)
The home team get to choose their kits. We are a 'home' team for this game and our preferred and main kit is red & black. Also we played in white in 2005 final and I don't think Milan would go for it again
*


Actually Milan had the choice of choosing between the home gear and the away ... and in 2005, they opted for the white ... Paolo said something about them playing in the white gear in several finals and that it is a trade mark or something like that ... Still, I would like for Milan to play in the red and black

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 02:01 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ May 3 2007, 02:51 AM)
I have every intention of carrying on next term. If we had been eliminated I would’ve undergone surgery immediately, but instead I will do everything I can to be ready for the Final in Athens.”
*


Grande Paolo !!!! He will continue with Milan next season devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: Darunia May 3 2007, 02:12 AM

Red and Black this year definitely! Gotta get away from comparisons to Istanbul.

Cmon, this could be a defining moment for Kaka & Co.

Forza Milan!

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 3 2007, 02:17 AM

I think we hadn't lost in white in a final or something..

Posted by: bigmacmtl May 3 2007, 02:23 AM

i said this before and i'll say it again, my dream is for us to play poorly and play well for 6 minutes and win the game, so those scousers can see what it feels like... that or a thrashing! as long as we win!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 02:35 AM

QUOTE (bigmacmtl @ May 3 2007, 04:23 AM)
i said this before and i'll say it again, my dream is for us to play poorly and play well for 6 minutes and win the game, so those scousers can see what it feels like... that or a thrashing! as long as we win!
*


I would go for a thrashing wink.gif Actually, the whole team would go for a thrashing devilsmiley.gif


................................................................................
................................................


I wouldn't be surprised if the media criticized Milan again and again. To the contrary, I think Milan performs better under such pressure. Liverfool won it in 2005 ?? Well, Milan were robbed in 2005 and as much as I cant accept the reality. This chance on the 23rd of May is a chance to show the whole world again, of what caliber Milan is. In 2005, Milan dominated the match for 84 mins of the game, then in extra time it was all Milan. But Liverfool were lucky and Rafa surprised Carlo IMO.

This time around, Milan have so much motivation and incentive in beating Liverfool.

1) Revenge
2) Paolo ends his career on a high note
3) A chance to make a whole nation proud
4) Making Inter bitter biggrin.gif
5) Retaining a title that they clearly deserved and deserve !

Posted by: javierk128 May 3 2007, 05:18 AM

his time around, Milan have so much motivation and incentive in beating Liverfool.

1) Revenge
2) Paolo ends his career on a high note
3) A chance to make a whole nation proud
4) Making Inter bitter biggrin.gif
5) Retaining a title that they clearly deserved and deserve !

+6) Kaká will demostrate he´s the best player in this world king.gif

the only thing i wouldn´t like to hear from the fans ir arrogance, it´s another match, of course i want to win (i wouldn´t be a milanfan if i wouldn´t wish it) but, we should be a little bit quiet, and do not think we´re already the CL champions, let´s play the way we did it today and celebrate this champions league with our team cool.gif wub.gif devilsmiley.gif king.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 09:17 AM

QUOTE
Galliani: Let's Enjoy The Final 

The vice-President of the Rossoneri declared that the entire Milan squad will be confirmed for next season and no player or coach will leave the team this summer.

An extremely happy Adriano Galliani commented the Rossoneri's triumph over Manchester United, sending also messages to those who doubted Milan's strength at the start of the season.

"Let's enjoy the final, the eight one of Berlusconi as President. It's a wonderful present of a marvellous team. We proved our many critics wrong who wrote last summer things which were not nice about us."

Galliani has no doubt that the entire squad should stay on for next season, including Carlo Ancelotti.

"I want to confirm all of this team, even the players who are 38 years-old because with people like them we reach the Champions League final, whereas changing team every year and playing with young kids you don't.


"From Milan no one is leaving, and whoever we want to stay will remain. Ancelotti has a contract also for next year, don't worry."

Galliani also poked fun at rivals Inter for not making it this far in the competition.

"Now I'm not thinking about Liverpool. Playing a final is an excellent result, winning it or also losing it like two years ago against Liverpool is very different from being eliminated before like other teams. Let's see if we shall transform a final into a win."


And ur right Galliani king.gif Experience is something vital for any team's success cool.gif

QUOTE
Berlusconi Wants Champions League Trophy Back

The Milan President was over the moon following his side's impressive 3-0 win against Manchester United in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final.

A brilliant display, just like the ones Silvio Berlusconi enjoys, allowed the Rossoneri to reach the final of Europe's most important competition.

An achievement which definitely made the President of Milan a happy man as he sent a 'subtle' message to rivals Inter.

"Milan remembered its mission: to be stronger than envy and injustice," commented Berlusconi at the end of the encounter which will be remembered for many years to come.

"Now let's take back the trophy back which we gave away to Liverpool in 2005."

Berlusconi also said how he congratulated Coach Carlo Ancelotti in unusual fashion following the end of the match.

"I went down to the dressing rooms to tell our coach that he was fired. Obviously it was a joke. I think that we shall still have to bear him for a long time."


Silvio has a weired sense of humor biggrin.gif

Goal.com

Posted by: arivanjj May 3 2007, 01:04 PM

this is our time!


QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 3 2007, 06:17 PM)
Silvio has a weired sense of humor biggrin.gif

Goal.com
*

laugh.gif , must've given Carlo a heart-attack.

Posted by: redbabies May 3 2007, 02:06 PM

I can see Genaro running 20km in this match (his avg is about 12km per match biggrin.gif)

Making about 35 succesful tackles

And encouriging the fans with his unique gesture

Posted by: redbabies May 3 2007, 02:06 PM

I can see Genaro running 20km in this match (his avg is about 12km per match biggrin.gif)

Making about 35 succesful tackles

And encouriging the fans with his unique gesture

Posted by: Portikins May 3 2007, 02:06 PM

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=449416&CPID=5&clid=14&lid=&title=Rafa+eyes+Milan+repeat

Rafa predicted the final some months ago. ohmy.gif

This time we have a job to finish. But we must not underestimate Liverpool. They beat Barcelona and Chelsea.

Posted by: arivanjj May 3 2007, 02:21 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 11:06 PM)
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=449416&CPID=5&clid=14&lid=&title=Rafa+eyes+Milan+repeat

Rafa predicted the final some months ago.  ohmy.gif

This time we have a job to finish. But we must not underestimate Liverpool. They beat Barcelona and Chelsea.
*

and we beat MAN U tongue.gif

no seriously, i think it'll be a tight match, but i just get this feeling that we'll be more determined to do better!

Posted by: redbabies May 3 2007, 02:34 PM

and his prediction ends with a Liverpool win.

but ok ok, he can't say Milan will win it tongue.gif

Posted by: dst May 3 2007, 02:56 PM

Damn! I have thought of nothing else all day long!! huh.gif ohmy.gif

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 04:06 PM)
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=449416&CPID=5&clid=14&lid=&title=Rafa+eyes+Milan+repeat

Rafa predicted the final some months ago.  ohmy.gif

This time we have a job to finish. But we must not underestimate Liverpool. They beat Barcelona and Chelsea.
*

Yep I remember that, too bad for him that his prediction will turn out to be a disaster!! cool.gif devil.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 3 2007, 03:12 PM

liverfool we will **** you

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant May 3 2007, 04:20 PM

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 3 2007, 02:12 PM)
liverfool we will **** you
*

Right this mentality has worked so far this CL....

I'm quite nervous for this game, not sure if we can do it...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 04:27 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ May 3 2007, 06:20 PM)
Right this mentality has worked so far this CL....

I'm quite nervous for this game, not sure if we can do it...
*


So has this mentality biggrin.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 3 2007, 04:33 PM

I'm confident. I'm even confident in Kaladze. rolleyes.gif

The sky must be red & black on 23rd May night.

*EDIT*

Just for curiosity, a pool on a portuguese sports newspaper website:



Who's going to win the CL? wink.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 3 2007, 04:38 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 06:33 PM)
Who's going to win the CL?  wink.gif
*


If Milan made it this far ... They are gonna win this cup for so many different reasons wink.gif

Posted by: Tennie May 3 2007, 04:40 PM

Even the Juve fans of my acquaintance are sure Milan is going to win. It's a bit surreal, Juve fans actually rooting /for/ Milan

Posted by: Portikins May 3 2007, 05:09 PM

QUOTE
RAFA: MILAN WILL BE DANGEROUS OPPONENTS

The Reds have enjoyed their celebrations since beating Chelsea on Tuesday night but Benitez is now keen to remind his players that the hard work is only just starting and that they'll be facing a side desperate to avenge their final misery in Istanbul.

While the Liverpool manager is keen to stress his side is superior to the one which triumphed in the Ataturk Stadium, he also believes Carlo Ancelotti's men have upped their level.

"It's clear we are going to play a team with players with a great attitude and quality," said Benitez.

"You could see by how hard they worked last night. They are desperate to win the Champions League, and after what happened two years ago we must be very careful. They are a very dangerous opponent for us.

"We enjoyed the day on Tuesday, but now that's gone and we must focus on the final. The hard work for the players begins now. The final is not today, it is in a few weeks time and we must start our preparation from this moment.

"Some people think because we won two years ago and we also beat Chelsea we will do it again, but this is not the right message. You do not win a trophy for winning a semi-final. Playing well in the final is what's important now.

"They are strong in every position. Defensively they are good, they have excellent strikers and in players like Gattuso and Kaka they have two of the best players in the world.

"They are a team we will show a lot of respect to. I have said many times we are stronger now than we were two years ago, but I also believe Milan is a better side than they were when we last played each other."

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/


@Tennie: Of course they're (Juventus fans) supporting Milan in the final. Heysel Park? rolleyes.gif
In fact, in Italy the only ones that are praying for Liverpool are the Interisti. Just imagine Milan outshining them AGAIN and specially this year when they thought they were the real top-side in Italy.

Posted by: mchanna May 3 2007, 05:15 PM

for some reasons liverpool are the underdiogs with the bookies... that's weird

I mean I'm not overly confident...

BUT REVENGE IS SWEET!!!

Posted by: misha May 3 2007, 07:34 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 07:09 PM)
@Tennie: Of course they're (Juventus fans) supporting Milan in the final. Heysel Park?  rolleyes.gif
In fact, in Italy the only ones that are praying for Liverpool are the Interisti. Just imagine Milan outshining them AGAIN and specially this year when they thought they were the real top-side in Italy.
*

It's nor just Heysel Park. All Italians fans (except Inter) wants us to win in order to prove everyone what Italian football worth. WC and CL in the same year is a big boost for Italy.

I'm very confident cool.gif

Posted by: redbabies May 3 2007, 08:28 PM

I found something interesting in acmilan.com from a Milan fan, who sent a message with the following words:
Luca: 'In Munich we took Gila to Manchester. Yesterday we took Paolo Maldini to Athens. Now, we need to take Ronie to Tokyo.'

good one, right? king.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 3 2007, 09:38 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 3 2007, 03:33 PM)
I'm confident. I'm even confident in Kaladze.  rolleyes.gif

The sky must be red & black on 23rd May night.

*EDIT*

Just for curiosity, a pool on a portuguese sports newspaper website:



Who's going to win the CL?  wink.gif
*

They're trying to jinx us for schooling Ronaldo mad.gif mad.gif

I don't want to be the favourite in this one, the last time we were the red hot favourites and look what happened.

Seriously...I don't know what I would do if we lost this again to Liverpool sad.gif sad.gif

Posted by: misha May 3 2007, 09:45 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 3 2007, 11:38 PM)
Seriously...I don't know what I would do if we lost this again to Liverpool  sad.gif  sad.gif
*

Yes , if by any chance we won't win, it will be extremely hard to accept sad.gif but we are going to kill them.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 3 2007, 09:47 PM

The majority of people I know are desperate to see Liverpool lift the trophy.

This includes United and Everton fans. You know life's hit a new low when you want your biggest rivals to be champions of Europe. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 3 2007, 09:48 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 3 2007, 08:47 PM)
The majority of people I know are desperate to see Liverpool lift the trophy.

This includes United and Everton fans. You know life's hit a new low when you want your biggest rivals to be champions of Europe.  rolleyes.gif
*

Most Man U fans I know want us to beat Liverpool

Posted by: Tennie May 3 2007, 09:48 PM

(Actually, my friend the Juve fan was supporting Milan against Bayern and Manchester, much to my surprise. Now, however, Heysel is really a big part of things. I've also heard from a friend who's a Roma fan. He's said he'll cheer passionately for Milan to win -- except he won't cheer for Nesta and Oddo, the former Lazio players).

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 3 2007, 10:00 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ May 3 2007, 08:48 PM)
(Actually, my friend the Juve fan was supporting Milan against Bayern and Manchester, much to my surprise. Now, however, Heysel is really a big part of things. I've also heard from a friend who's a Roma fan. He's said he'll cheer passionately for Milan to win -- except he won't cheer for Nesta and Oddo, the former Lazio players).
*


I can understand a Juve fan wanting us to beat Liverpool, but United and Bayern is quite the surprise.

Then again I'd want Juve to wipe the floor with any English team they came up against.

Posted by: Warchant May 3 2007, 10:33 PM

i feel very confident about this game! i knew we would beat bayern, i knew we would beat man u, and i know we will beat liverpool! can't wait for the 23rd!

Posted by: dst May 4 2007, 12:54 AM

If there's something I do know about is that Milan won't enter the green with arrogance even if UEFA decide to give us a 15 goals lead!

The team knows how to handle this game.

There are going to be a lot of Liverpool fans in the stadium. Many Greek people support Liverpool (damn nation!!). This lazy nation like the fact that Liverpool are football's Britney Spears! They are so... pop, so... "digestible"! "You'll never walk alone" my ***... like Maldini ever needed confirmation! rolleyes.gif

Posted by: kidnicky May 4 2007, 05:31 AM

ok I know that I have like 4 posts here in the forum but I always read all your posts and esp during the matches meanwhile I'm stuck at work, what happened the last wednesday was incredible, I don't know how I was able to not scream the goals in front of my boss (I was hearing the live audio) although some folders were destroyed after he 2nd goal tongue.gif

anyway now I don't know what to do! I'm going to be at work again for the final!! I'm really close to ask the day off, but what if I jinx the team?? I always saw the CL matches by replay so now I'm scared! I don't know what to do and yes I know that I sound like a desperate crazy but I need advices for the good of the team biggrin.gif

and my boss already knows that I'm a Milan fan and that they'll play the CL final so I can't make up any lie tongue.gif

Posted by: dst May 4 2007, 08:04 AM

I say go with your lucky charms... smile.gif

Posted by: shevchenko_007 May 4 2007, 08:04 AM

^^ i think u should just watch the game live, a lot of people in the world will have their little superstitions, like since the round of 16 ive listened to this song after the 1st legs and we came through in the round of 16, the quarters and the semis, so if we are down or a draw at half time i will be listening to thie song until the 2nd half lol.

As for the final... i am vonfident we can win it this time and the revenge will be so sweet, unfortunately i dont know many liverpool supporters, but i do know a lot of milan haters who didnt stop giving me **** for week after the 2005 final, so if we win it this time i will be calling them all up and giving it back.

Win or lose, one this is certain..... Kaka is going to win FIFA World Player of the Year!!!

My prediction is Milan 2 - 1 Liverpool (i predicted 1-0 to us in the man united game and look wat happened lol, so hopefully our score can be bigger in the final)

FORZA MILAN!!! (soon to be 7 ime champions!)

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 11:23 AM

This is all I ask from you God... Revenge sad.gif

Posted by: Il Capitano May 4 2007, 12:50 PM

I hope the players will show the same attitude they showed against Man U. I saw Kaka,seedorf and pirlo run like there was no tomorrow. I they show the same spirit Liverpool won't stand a chance. Motivation shouldn't be a problem for this game and the important players should rest these upcoming fixtures in the league.

If we win I am positive that Kaka will get the Golden ball.

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 12:57 PM

QUOTE
Gattuso Crowns Kaka: He Deserves The Golden Ball

The Italian midfielder has hailed his team-mate for his recent performances, declaring that he would deserve to win the coveted award for best player in Europe.



Following the triumphant win over Manchester United in the semi final of the Champions League, Gennaro Gattuso has no doubt that Kaka should be awarded with the Golden Ball for his brilliant performances and sheer class.

"He's a phenomenon at hundred per cent.

“ If he doesn't win the Golden Ball this year, we will offer it to him, in the sense that we will go and buy it for him because I think that it's fair that he wins it."

Apart from Kaka, Gattuso also managed to put a man of the match performance against the Red Devils and even though he will never win the Golden Ball trophy, he definitely deserves a lot of recognition for all the hard work and determination he puts in his performances.


True player king.gif

Posted by: Tennie May 4 2007, 01:01 PM

Just did a quick peek of the Italian press. I'm sorry I didn't take time to copy a link, but they're reporting that Milan will wear the white strip for this game.

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 01:19 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ May 4 2007, 12:01 PM)
Just did a quick peek of the Italian press. I'm sorry I didn't take time to copy a link, but they're reporting that Milan will wear the white strip for this game.
*

Better away kit then the home kit imo

Posted by: zdrossoneri May 4 2007, 01:40 PM

Oh no... we're gonna wear white again!

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N155835070504-0954.htm

that's very disappointing...

Posted by: dst May 4 2007, 01:46 PM

QUOTE (zdrossoneri @ May 4 2007, 03:40 PM)
Oh no... we're gonna wear white again!

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N155835070504-0954.htm

that's very disappointing...
*

The team knows better!!! They picked it... wink.gif

Posted by: zdrossoneri May 4 2007, 01:53 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 4 2007, 04:16 PM)
The team knows better!!! They picked it... wink.gif
*


Let's hope so! I wonder what will they say if we were beaten again?! huh.gif
the majority of fans, I know, are wishing for red&black. that's all Milan are about: red&black! not that white kit which makes us look like RM.

Posted by: redbabies May 4 2007, 01:54 PM

I don't know who picked them, the players, Silvio, or Galliani.
But one thing is for sure: Fans didn't. wink.gif

Posted by: zdrossoneri May 4 2007, 01:57 PM

our red&black is recognized as some kind of 'classic' across the world by now! we shouldn't wear white...

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 02:14 PM

white all the way

Posted by: kidnicky May 4 2007, 02:23 PM

I like the white outfit (since I have that t-shirt) but I'd preffer the red & black tongue.gif

thanks for the advices guys ... still don't know what to do .... I hate to live in this side of the world dry.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 04:54 PM

wooooooooooow
MILAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN
My liverpool friend will finally shut his mouth about 05 and then it will be my turn >:)

Posted by: han2503 May 4 2007, 05:50 PM

Pay-back time for Milan

On an evening when the blackest of clouds swirled above Milan and swamped the city with torrential rain, another force of nature was gathering momentum. Having watched Liverpool FC reach the final of the UEFA Champions League the night before, nothing was going to prevent AC Milan earning their shot at revenge.

Old wound
Six of the side that started against Manchester United FC on Wednesday had played in the heart-wrenching defeat on penalties in the final against Liverpool two years ago. The manner in which the Rossoneri set about dismantling United's 3-2 first-leg lead suggested there was no way they were going to pass up the opportunity of finally healing a deep wound. "That defeat still burns," admitted Paolo Maldini after the game. The 38-year-old veteran defender sat out the second leg at San Siro, but will be fit in time to contest his eighth final at the end of the month. "We played better than them [in 2005] and had the match won but we have every faith that we'll win this time around."

Call to arms
"Win for us" was the demand, in English, held up by the tifosi in a huge red-and-white mosaic behind one goal. The message was simple and followed to the letter as Carlo Ancelotti's team tore at United from kick-off. "Watching your team play as we did in the first half is the dream of every coach," Milan's Carlo Ancelotti said. "In the first 45 minutes we played perfect football." Milan were playing the Premiership leaders at their own game: power, speed and sublime skill. Kaká led the charge, driving in the first after eleven minutes for his perfect tenth in the competition this term. The brilliant Brazilian dictated the pace, his touch and vision pulling the visitors in all directions.

Seedorf strike
Gennaro Gattuso supplied the brawn, snapping at the heels of players in white and refusing to let them settle on the slippery, sodden surface. He took Cristiano Ronaldo out of the game, jumping away from one tackle punching the air after brushing the Portuguese winger to the floor. Milan's fans hardly needed further encouragement to raise the decibel levels; their reaction to Clarence Seedorf's superb strike on 30 minutes to double the advantage had already drowned out the sound of rain battering the roof of the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Alberto Gilardino iced the cake with a late third to leave San Siro shaking under the weight of Milan's delirious supporters.

Milan's night
For United it was a sad end to a thrilling run that had seen Sir Alex Ferguson's men dazzle in a seven-goal rout of AS Roma and again at Old Trafford against Milan. There was to be no repeat of Turin 1999 when United battled back so bravely against Juventus to claim a place in the final. Here there was no way back. For the first time in 30 matches Sir Alex’s formidable goal machine was kept off the scoresheet. As is so often the case, it was Milan's night.

Ancelotti outstanding
The Rossoneri's record in Europe since Ancelotti arrived at the helm in 2001 is outstanding: finalists three times, winning one, and semi-finalists last season. This year, though, is something special even by those high standards. The turnaround has been remarkable in a campaign that began with their very participation in the tournament in doubt. They also had to endure city rivals FC Internazionale Milano's utter dominance of Serie A following their points deduction. Here, the pendulum swung back towards the red and blacks.

'Incredible achievement'
"It is an incredible achievement," Gattuso told uefa.com. "It seemed easy but we know what we've been through this season and it hasn't been at all easy to get to this point. Back in November-December we hadn't had a proper pre-season to prepare, we were a side that was totally lost. We weren't in good shape at all and everyone was criticising us - rightly so because our league position was awful. It was a terrible time. To reach a third [final] in five years is unbelievable, an extraordinary achievement. Only great sides can do this. This is why we're so happy, because we were being slaughtered from all quarters and now we've reached the final."

High drama
The thunder and lightning crashing around the ground had provided a dramatic backdrop to an explosive tie. The real fireworks, though, will be saved for Athens. "We are in peak physical condition at the right time," Ancelotti warned. "We did a great job during the Christmas break with this goal in mind and now we’re seeing the results." With a seventh crown in their sights, Milan are in no mood to let club football's most coveted prize slip from their grasp again.

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 06:27 PM

I don't think anyone can predict the score of this match....
I really hope Milan wins . PLEASE GOD

Posted by: redbabies May 4 2007, 07:23 PM

we will win because:

1. We are stronger
2. We are on TOP form
3. We want revenge
4. Football will be fair finally for us, after what we went through this season.
5. Rossoneri want it the most
6. We have a tactician like Carlo
7. Athens brings luck to Milan
8. after all, WE ARE MILAN my friend and we keep on fighting till the end...!!!!!!

devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 4 2007, 08:45 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 4 2007, 07:50 PM)
High drama
The thunder and lightning crashing around the ground had provided a dramatic backdrop to an explosive tie. The real fireworks, though, will be saved for Athens. "We are in peak physical condition at the right time," Ancelotti warned. "We did a great job during the Christmas break with this goal in mind and now we’re seeing the results." With a seventh crown in their sights, Milan are in no mood to let club football's most coveted prize slip from their grasp again.
*



devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif

BEWARE devil.gif devil.gif



tongue.gif

Posted by: maldini03 May 4 2007, 09:22 PM

devilsmiley.gif devil.gif devilsmiley.gif devil.gif devilsmiley.gif devil.gif devilsmiley.gif OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHH

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 09:28 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 4 2007, 04:50 PM)
Pay-back time for Milan

High drama
The thunder and lightning crashing around the ground had provided a dramatic backdrop to an explosive tie. The real fireworks, though, will be saved for Athens. "We are in peak physical condition at the right time," Ancelotti warned. "We did a great job during the Christmas break with this goal in mind and now we’re seeing the results." With a seventh crown in their sights, Milan are in no mood to let club football's most coveted prize slip from their grasp again.
*


does this mean that we're going to have better fans than we did against Man United??

Posted by: jefri91 May 4 2007, 09:30 PM

cuz the "win for us" is kinda pathetic
Milan can do so much better

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 5 2007, 06:08 AM

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 5 2007, 05:30 AM)
cuz the "win for us" is kinda pathetic
Milan can do so much better
*


I wasn't sure if there was going to be a coreo at all for the Man U match as I thought the new laws in Italy forbade financial relationships between clubs and supporters. Coreos apparently cost alot of money.

I'm pretty sure Milan did a coreo that said 'FORZA' before the CL Final in 2003 which was pretty impressive. Hopefully there will be another one in Athens to inspire us on to victory!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 5 2007, 06:32 AM

QUOTE (tom_valtellina @ May 5 2007, 08:08 AM)
I wasn't sure if there was going to be a coreo at all for the Man U match as I thought the new laws in Italy forbade financial relationships between clubs and supporters. Coreos apparently cost alot of money.

I'm pretty sure Milan did a coreo that said 'FORZA' before the CL Final in 2003 which was pretty impressive. Hopefully there will be another one in Athens to inspire us on to victory!
*


Milan have been doing them over the years in BIG games ... So it is nothing new and it is nothing that will die in the future, as it is in bedded with the recent history of the club. king.gif

Posted by: HasanHasanly May 5 2007, 08:32 AM

Something tells me that this match will be very hard, and i cant see us holding the trophy. is our good old dst going to see the match? biggrin.gif

Posted by: dst May 5 2007, 01:46 PM

QUOTE (HasanHasanly @ May 5 2007, 10:32 AM)
Something tells me that this match will be very hard, and i cant see us holding the trophy. is our good old dst going to see the match? biggrin.gif
*

You CAN'T see us holding the trophy!?? dry.gif

I will probably be there... smile.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 5 2007, 01:54 PM

so the coreos in athens will be 10x better?

Posted by: jefri91 May 5 2007, 02:54 PM

---------------Dida
--Oddo----Nesta----Maldini--Jankulovski
-------Gattuso-Pirlo--Ambrosini
----------Kaka---Seedorf
-------------Inzaghi

Gila coming in somwhere in 2nd half maybe???

------------Kuyt---Crouch
--Pennant--Alonso-Mascherano--Gerrard
--Riise----Carragher--Agger-----Finnan
---------------Reina

Posted by: Darunia May 5 2007, 04:02 PM

I can see that lineup for Liverpool, although they started Zenden in both games against Chelsea.

They could move Gerrard outside and bench Alonso and play with 2 wingers, like in the 2nd leg... Benitez likes to mix it up

Posted by: han2503 May 5 2007, 04:05 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 5 2007, 12:46 PM)
You CAN'T see us holding the trophy!?? dry.gif

I will probably be there... smile.gif
*

Wow that's great, have you already got the ticket?

QUOTE (Darunia @ May 5 2007, 03:02 PM)
I can see that lineup for Liverpool, although they started Zenden in both games against Chelsea.

They could move Gerrard outside and bench Alonso and play with 2 wingers, like in the 2nd leg... Benitez likes to mix it up
*

Yep, I can see him benching Alonso so that he would have 2 solid midfielders in the middle to stifle us.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 5 2007, 04:24 PM

I think this will be a much different game than the 2005. Milan is now more "Kaka-based", and also does not have a wide bench. I think everything is up to us...we just have to play 90 minutes whithout our usuall ups and downs. We got to make the pressure, cause the Liverpool defense isn`t the strongest one.

The players I mostly fear, beside Gerrard are Kuyt and Crouch.

Players who I still expect to improve are Oddo, Pirlo and Pippo.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 5 2007, 04:24 PM

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 5 2007, 02:54 PM)
------------Kuyt---Crouch
--Pennant--Alonso-Mascherano--Gerrard
--Riise----Carragher--Agger-----Finnan
---------------Reina
*

Bellamy not in?

I doubt Crouch will start...

Posted by: han2503 May 5 2007, 04:50 PM

QUOTE (Fillipo Simone @ May 5 2007, 03:24 PM)
Bellamy not in?

I doubt Crouch will start...
*

I think he will use Crouch to expose our weaknesses on set plays

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 5 2007, 04:58 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 5 2007, 04:50 PM)
I think he will use Crouch to expose our weaknesses on set plays
*

Maybe, but not as a starter...Benitez will start it rather sustained, and use the Crouch-monster in second period, after our vets start to get slower.

Can we stop him?

Posted by: jefri91 May 5 2007, 05:58 PM

QUOTE (Fillipo Simone @ May 5 2007, 03:58 PM)
Maybe, but not as a starter...Benitez will start it rather sustained, and use the Crouch-monster in second period, after our vets start to get slower.

Can we stop him?
*

ummmmm yeah huh.gif

Posted by: dst May 5 2007, 06:13 PM

We MUST keep a clean sheet in this match. Liverpool are only destructive, they produce nothing! It shouldn't be hard not to concede and Kaka will only need one good chance to write down history! smile.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 5 2007, 07:14 PM

Kaka will definitely be marked by Sosoko or whoever they will field in the middle. But Milan has enough quality to see them off .. Seedorf, Pirlo, Inzaghi, and Sergio are enough to push their defense to the limits and break away with at least 2 goals.


About us not conceding ?? I do think we wont, cuz Nesta and Maldini wont let anyone past them and with Gattuso and Ambro in midfield haha forget about it Liverfool, just don't show up devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: Locke Lamora May 5 2007, 07:27 PM

We must also watch out for any tactical changes Benitez makes.
During the nightmare in Istanbul all they did was having six lucky minutes and close down Kaka in the middle.
I don't want that to happen again...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 5 2007, 07:42 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ May 5 2007, 09:27 PM)
We must also watch out for any tactical changes Benitez makes.
During the nightmare in Istanbul all they did was having six lucky minutes and close down Kaka in the middle.
I don't want that to happen again...
*


The 6 minutes, believe it or not, was down to our players acting too confident and careless as they got a 3 - 0 lead at half time. No team would concede 3 goals in one half, not at this level, NOT in a final.

Milan played the whole game, Liverpool took advantage of Milan when they took their foot off the gas for a couple of minutes. But then, Milan went right back at it.


I don't think Milan would just have revenge in their minds, as much as they are drolling over the CL cup. Even if we had to play a team made off :

-------------------- Cech
Zambrotta - Terry - Canavaro - Riise

Gerard - Ballack - Makelele - Robben

-----Drogba - Shevchenko


We would still beat the sh1t out of them ! Yes, our old worn out team would push them so hard, that they will either score an o.g. or concede at every attempt.

That is how I see it, Milan are VERY VERY hungry for this trophy and the chance to play Liverfool again simplifies the objective to one word; vendetta.

Posted by: jefri91 May 5 2007, 07:59 PM

I predict 3-0 tongue.gif
Reality mode 2-1

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 5 2007, 11:10 PM

1-0 for us, a second half scorer... cool.gif

Posted by: dst May 6 2007, 12:47 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 5 2007, 09:42 PM)
The 6 minutes, believe it or not, was down to our players acting too confident and careless as they got a 3 - 0 lead at half time. No team would concede 3 goals in one half, not at this level, NOT in a final.
*

I agree. In that sense, we deserved to lose... I really hate arrogance and hubris!

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 5 2007, 09:42 PM)
our old worn out team
*

Oh yeah our tired little pensionary team... rolleyes.gif biggrin.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 6 2007, 04:36 AM

Ambro: Liverpool in my destiny

Massimo Ambrosini sees the hand of fate giving Milan the opportunity to avenge their 2005 defeat to Liverpool.

“When I saw our opponents in the Final would be Liverpool, I thought that life is strange and always gives you another chance,” smiled the midfielder.

“We had done it that night, all we had to do was finish the job. Now we have that opportunity.” king.gif

Ambrosini was one of the players in Istanbul in 2005 when the Rossoneri were leading 3-0 only to lose on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

Now Carlo Ancelotti’s men have another shot at the trophy in Athens on May 23, earning that right thanks to a magnificent performance to eliminate Manchester United 5-3 on aggregate.

“We progressed because our individual talents put themselves at the total service of the collective and in so doing they shone even brighter. Kaka, Clarence Seedorf and Pippo Inzaghi worked their behinds off. As for Manchester, their soloists did their own thing and they were beaten. Milan always manage to find their strength at the right time.”

Inter have made cutting comments about Milan’s Champions League status, though Ambrosini reminds them of what it takes to be the only Italian side in the final four.

“Of the 14 players who took part in the semi-final, eight of them were Italian. We are very proud of that and so are our fans, not that we want to criticise anyone, of course.”

It has been a particularly stressful journey for the Italian international, who has struggled with a series of injuries over the past few years.

“The setbacks were incessant. When I finally got back to playing regularly, I rediscovered that mentality I had lost. I wasn’t exactly afraid I’d have to retire, but I did fear I would never be able to play at a certain level again. There were terrible moments in which I was just so exhausted of it all, as the moment I returned I’d get another minor injury.”

Yet Ambrosini could be set for a departure in the summer, as he is one of the few stars yet to extend his contract past June 2008.

“For now I am only focused on May 23,” he told the ‘Corriere dello Sport’. “I am honoured by the interest from Fiorentina, as they are a great squad with an excellent Coach in Cesare Prandelli.”


http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/may6c.html

Posted by: MizNelson May 6 2007, 06:27 AM

QUOTE (arivanjj @ May 5 2007, 08:36 PM)
“For now I am only focused on May 23,” he told the ‘Corriere dello Sport’.

Hey, Ambro, let's focus on Fiorentina first, eh? Being in the final doesn't change the fact that we still have next season's spot to fight for.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 6 2007, 07:38 AM

QUOTE
Inter have made cutting comments about Milan’s Champions League status, though Ambrosini reminds them of what it takes to be the only Italian side in the final four.

“Of the 14 players who took part in the semi-final, eight of them were Italian. We are very proud of that and so are our fans, not that we want to criticise anyone, of course.”


In ur face Moratti devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: Jack Sparrow May 6 2007, 07:45 AM

We're gonna lose again. Rafa is too smart for Carlo. Carlo is the second smartest tactician there is. If it were two legs I'd be confident, but one single match with everything on the line is bad for us. Not to mention that Liverpool are like our alter ego in the EPL. Great history AND heritage AND pedigree. A few stars, but a good dedicated team.

They don't have the weaknesses Man U had. Man U didn't have a hard man, these blokes have Sissoko and Mascherano and Xabi Alonso. They also have the option of introducing pure wingers in. All we have over them are our much higher quality full backs.

Our strikers are about the same level. Kuyt= Gilardino. Inzaghi(now)=Crouch.

Kaka(marked by Mascherano and Sissoko)=Gerrard(marked by Rino)

Pirlo(now)=Xabi Alonso.

Well I suppose our defence is a little better, but then again, they're gonna look at f@cking us over from set pieces. If they screwed Chelsea, we're f@cked too.

sad.gif cry.gif

I'm just happy, our boys made it this far. Well done lads. 50 mill euros in the bad. Now let's buy someone.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 6 2007, 07:56 AM

^^^


Liverfool played Chelsea at Anfield. and Chelsea played really well away ... They took the game to penalties and were trying to finish off the tie.

Milan is a much more dynamic team in my opinion. There is no other team that plays at the level of Milan. This team has been playing for the past 5 to 6 years, almost the same line up. Give or take 2 players, but the core of the team is the same.

And under pressure, Milan really show their fangs wink.gif

This isn't a make or break match .. This isn't just about Milan winning the champions league. No, this is about Milan winning the champions league to shatter inter .. This is about revenge.

Liverpool are a quality side, but to Milan, they are mediocre. I mean, everyone rated United as the best team there is in the CL this season. United !!! And what did we do to them ?!

The team wants this CL more than anything else on this planet. Not next years', not the one after it. But this one, against Liverpool.

I think Milan have a very good chance of winning and Liverpool are scared, very scared. Cuz this could be considered a 2nd leg; the first leg Liverfool won 4-3, but this leg (on 23rd May) Milan will set the records straight. Inshallah

Posted by: arivanjj May 6 2007, 08:48 AM

@ Jack Sparrow. i can't believe you're talking like this. comparing Sissoko and Mascherano and Xabi Alonso to our players, and stating they're better than Man U. Gerrard is their only player that can level up to our players. PERIOD!

anyways i think what this game will come down to is our determination, our mentality and and our class which is way greater than Liverpool.

Posted by: javierk128 May 6 2007, 11:33 AM

i day we have more class than them, and beside that, we are hungry of revenge from that final in istambul.. we can´t lose this ine, and uor players know that, at least 6 players were there in that final, and i know they know they can´t lose this final, it´s just not tha CL title, it´s about pride, they know they have to win this time, and they will do anything to do that way... and if they run like they did it against manchester utd, i know we will do it king.gif king.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif

Just wait to may 23rd to know what milan is smile.gif cool.gif

PS: i did a bet with my best friend (he´s a liverfool fan) and we bet $50, of course i said we would win this final ohmy.gif tongue.gif devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: dst May 6 2007, 11:33 AM

Come on cap'n, Liverpool is all about destroying the opposition's game, they can produce sh!t. All we're gonna need is for Kaka to escape the prison they're going to get him in ONCE... it's gonna be enough. They don't have a player that can make a difference.

By the way, isn't it funny how the English talk about Milan's participation in the CL while we will face Mascherano, a guy UEFA waived the rules so that he could play for Loverfool... rolleyes.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 6 2007, 12:54 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 6 2007, 01:33 PM)
Come on cap'n, Liverpool is all about destroying the opposition's game, they can produce sh!t. All we're gonna need is for Kaka to escape the prison they're going to get him in ONCE... it's gonna be enough. They don't have a player that can make a difference.

By the way, isn't it funny how the English talk about Milan's participation in the CL while we will face Mascherano, a guy UEFA waived the rules so that he could play for Loverfool...  rolleyes.gif
*

If Cambiasso and the whole Argentine defensive midfielders couldn't hold Kaka back, how would Mascherano hold him ? cool.gif

Plus, Kaka has a new role, second punta ... and he is excelling at it, 3 goals against United rolleyes.gif

On that thought, Kaka wont be in trouble for long devil.gif He will be causing them much more trouble. God bless him king.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 6 2007, 01:07 PM

I could see Rafa putting on Gerrard on the right, Mascherano and Sissoko in the middle and Zenden on the left. Just to stifle our midfield out, he will also probably man to man Kaka, but the problem for him is, unlike last time when Kaka was fixed in the middle behind the strikers this time he has a totally free role and can go where ever he wants so it won't be easy to mark him.

As for Jack, I know he is trying that jinxing thing. Keep going Jack, the last time we tried it it worked wonders cool.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 6 2007, 06:47 PM

How does the tickets go around for this match??
how many Milan and Liverfool tickets? how many all together?

I need to know everything before I lose my mind...

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 6 2007, 06:51 PM

You also plan to come to Athens? Well, not many tickets are avaible... unsure.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 6 2007, 07:15 PM

QUOTE (Fillipo Simone @ May 6 2007, 05:51 PM)
You also plan to come to Athens? Well, not many tickets are avaible... unsure.gif
*

Nope, just wanted to know cuz I really don't want more Liverpool fans than Milan fans in Athens sad.gif

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 6 2007, 07:25 PM

Dont worry,...we will be strong! rolleyes.gif

Posted by: redbabies May 6 2007, 07:30 PM

QUOTE (Jack Sparrow @ May 6 2007, 07:45 AM)
We're gonna lose again. Rafa is too smart for Carlo. Carlo is the second smartest tactician there is. If it were two legs I'd be confident, but one single match with everything on the line is bad for us. Not to mention that Liverpool are like our alter ego in the EPL. Great history AND heritage AND pedigree. A few stars, but a good dedicated team.

They don't have the weaknesses Man U had. Man U didn't have a hard man, these blokes have Sissoko and Mascherano and Xabi Alonso. They also have the option of introducing pure wingers in. All we have over them are our much higher quality full backs.

Our strikers are about the same level. Kuyt= Gilardino. Inzaghi(now)=Crouch.

Kaka(marked by Mascherano and Sissoko)=Gerrard(marked by Rino)

Pirlo(now)=Xabi Alonso.

Well I suppose our defence is a little better, but then again, they're gonna look at f@cking us over from set pieces. If they screwed Chelsea, we're f@cked too.

sad.gif cry.gif

I'm just happy, our  boys made it this far. Well done lads. 50 mill euros in the bad. Now let's buy someone.
*


hey hey my freind,

don't talk something like that.

don't compare our quality to theirs mad.gif

we are MILAN, we are STRONGER.

I agree with you about Rafa, that he's a great tactician. But, so is Carlo.
And, after all if our players performe how they know, Rafa's advices would mean a sh!t.

Posted by: Portikins May 6 2007, 08:52 PM

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 6 2007, 07:15 PM)
Nope, just wanted to know cuz I really don't want more Liverpool fans than Milan fans in Athens sad.gif
*

But that's for sure. Just like Istanbul.

Posted by: mishie May 6 2007, 09:09 PM

17500 tickets for each club in a 72,000 seater stadium and you can bet the scouseers will end up with loads more than that!!!
can't find a ticket anywhere

Posted by: jefri91 May 6 2007, 09:31 PM

QUOTE (mishie @ May 6 2007, 08:09 PM)
17500 tickets for each club in a 72,000 seater stadium and you can bet the scouseers will end up with loads more than that!!!
can't find a ticket anywhere
*

wtf.... thats gay

Posted by: Portikins May 7 2007, 01:04 AM

TBH I think Jack_Sparrow could be right (for once).

If there's a coach that can outsmart Carletto is Benitez.

Reina,
Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa
Gerrard Alonso Mascherano Riise
Crouch Kuyt

This is probably the first 11 they'll play against us, just like they did when the semi-final was 1-1 agg against Chelsea.

I mean, it's a solid team that can easily hold a draw for long. Their midfield is impressive and we're lucky H.Kewell is not on his top form (he just came back from injury).

I was saying... they can hold a draw but they can play long balls (a la EPL) to Crouch. They've 3 long-distance shot specialists: Gerrard, Alonso and Riise. 3 good FK takers too. Lot of tecnique on that midfield. Guys that know how to pass, cross, shot and tackle. All internationals from their NT. Good tactically as obvious, otherwise they won't be in a Benitez team.

I really fear them on a 1on1 match. More than Chelsea, Arsenal or Manchester United. I think they're the most dificult team to play on a final or knock-out stage (a non-league situation).

Plus... there will be more Liverpool fans than Milanisti in Athens. Gosh. I dunno if I can take this match.

We need a miracle to break their rock-solid defensive system and secure the 'vendetta' from Istanbul.

May the devil be with us.

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 7 2007, 03:31 AM

Yeh I know what you mean porty.

It is a much better team were facing than in the one we did in instanbul.

If we play anything like the way we dispatched united, in theory we should win comfortably.

Posted by: HasanHasanly May 7 2007, 01:10 PM

im not sure if we will be able to beat them even though we are Milan!

what we have on our side?

experience, revenge, class.

what do they have?

speed, stability and youth.

Lets see who wins..

Posted by: Portikins May 7 2007, 03:09 PM

This sh!t scares the hell out of me:

QUOTE
Why Milan is going to lose next 23/05:

Liverpool has an incredible finals record, losing just once - Heysel Park.
*Their wins were against:

Borrussia Moenchengladbach
Brugges
Real Madrid
Roma
AC Milan
... ?  rolleyes.gif (Missing some "A"...)

*Every European Cup final Liverpool have won has been in an "Olympic Stadium".  rolleyes.gif

*In 2005 Liverpool knocked out a team in the group stages who play in the city of the 2007 final "Olympiacos".
*In 2007 Liverpool knocked out a team in the group stages who play in the city of the 2005 final "Galatasaray"

*In both years Liverpool also played a french team in the groups...Monaco in 05 -Bourdeux in 07

*In both years Liverpool knocked out a team in round 16 whos name starts with a "B"
-Bayer Leverkusen in 05
-Barcelona in 07

*Played Chelsea in the semis in 05 and 07 plus the same team in the final: AC Milan.


Now... the coincidence goes mad:

M.United played a London team in the Cup final in 05 and 07.
Chelsea won the league cup in 05 and 07
Sunderland got promoted in 2005 and 2007
Everton qualified for europe

... and there's some more.


Am I the only one who's worried? Damn. sleep.gif

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 7 2007, 03:23 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 7 2007, 11:09 PM)
This sh!t scares the hell out of me:
Am I the only one who's worried? Damn.  sleep.gif
*


meh....I wouldn't be too worried Porty, even though I'm pretty superstitions as well. I can understand why it's a bit scary because it's quite an impressive string of coincidences, but I'm sure if you looked hard enough you could find something similar for Milan. In the end, if we lose it will be because they played better than us on the night, not because we wore white strips or it was played in an Olympic Stadium etc.

A good football pattern which was recently proved true is Italy's 12 year World Cup cycle. Every 12 years Italy makes a WC final, and every 24 years Italy is World Champions. This has worked since 1970. But how much is it coincidence and how much is it providence?

Posted by: dst May 7 2007, 03:46 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 7 2007, 05:09 PM)
This sh!t scares the hell out of me:
Am I the only one who's worried? Damn.  sleep.gif
*

*runs aways scared*



rolleyes.gif rolleyes.gif rolleyes.gif

Please... this is classic Liverpool fanboyism!!! puke.gif

They said these thing last season too... But NO unless the Pope dies again, the Prince of Wales gets re-married, God falls asleep even for a mere 6 minutes and Milan let it slip off their hands it's not gonna happen!!

Plus we never lose in Greece or when we've faced Celtic!! rolleyes.gif biggrin.gif

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 7 2007, 03:52 PM

Only the bloody 7th. rolleyes.gif

Were going to be going back and fourth for another 16 days.

I think its pretty simple, if both teams play their best game, we'll come back to the san siro as european kings.

Posted by: han2503 May 7 2007, 04:35 PM

This game really get's me confused as to what to think about it.

On one hand I know we are strong enough to beat them, BUT can you imagine losing to them again?? And don't tell me it won't happen, because this is football and everythin can happen within those 90 minutes.

If we lose to them again it would be devestating

Posted by: Portikins May 7 2007, 05:32 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 7 2007, 03:46 PM)
*runs aways scared*



rolleyes.gif  rolleyes.gif  rolleyes.gif

Please... this is classic Liverpool fanboyism!!! puke.gif

They said these thing last season too... But NO unless the Pope dies again, the Prince of Wales gets re-married, God falls asleep even for a mere 6 minutes and Milan let it slip off their hands it's not gonna happen!!

Plus we never lose in Greece or when we've faced Celtic!!  rolleyes.gif  biggrin.gif
*

What was the result against AEK some months ago... ? rolleyes.gif

Posted by: IoRDanCHo May 7 2007, 07:03 PM

On 07.07.07 i will go to have a drink about our 7-th CL cup! cool.gif

Posted by: mishie May 7 2007, 07:21 PM

to give some balance to the argument about liverpool i thought of this. how many of our players would you swap for there players and with the probable exception of gerrard i thought 0. i honestly think we will beat them because simply man for man we are the better side and it was 1 tactical decision that carlo didn't react to that cost us the 2005 final and there is no-way carlo will that happen again as not only the team but carlo has a point to prove as well.

Posted by: han2503 May 7 2007, 07:29 PM

QUOTE (mishie @ May 7 2007, 06:21 PM)
to give some balance to the argument about liverpool i thought of this. how many of our players would you swap for there players and with the probable exception of gerrard i thought 0. i honestly think we will beat them because simply man for man we are the better side and it was 1 tactical decision that carlo didn't react to that cost us the 2005 final and there is no-way carlo will that happen again as not only the team but carlo has a point to prove as well.
*

Well I personally wouldn't change any of our classy midfielders for Gerrard, ok he's got a lot of heart and spirit, but would you really change him for anyone of our midifleders including Ambro who when not getting injured every few days is a very important part of our midfield.

As for the tactical switch that was made, I still don't believe that it was Benitez's masterstroke that changed the game, it was our over confidence that had us thinking we won the cup in just 45 minutes and HUGE luck on the part of Liverpool, plus some questionable goalkeeping from Dida and a dive from Gerrard. Benitez bringing Hamann on was more to employ a damage control tactic, because if he hadn't done that we probably would have scored 3 more goals.

Posted by: Portikins May 7 2007, 09:37 PM

QUOTE (mishie @ May 7 2007, 07:21 PM)
to give some balance to the argument about liverpool i thought of this. how many of our players would you swap for there players and with the probable exception of gerrard i thought 0. i honestly think we will beat them because simply man for man we are the better side and it was 1 tactical decision that carlo didn't react to that cost us the 2005 final and there is no-way carlo will that happen again as not only the team but carlo has a point to prove as well.
*

At the moment? Reina for Dida, Riise for Jankulovski, Carragher for Kaladze ( wink.gif ), Gerrard for Seedorf (age and stamina), probably Kuyt for Oli too. And Kewell for Serginho.

Posted by: jefri91 May 7 2007, 09:44 PM

We will r@pe those b!tches

Posted by: dst May 7 2007, 11:22 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 7 2007, 07:32 PM)
What was the result against AEK some months ago... ? rolleyes.gif
*

We never lose a final in Greece!! wink.gif

QUOTE (Porty @ May 7 2007, 11:37 PM)
At the moment? Reina for Dida, Riise for Jankulovski, Carragher for Kaladze ( wink.gif ), Gerrard for Seedorf (age and stamina), probably Kuyt for Oli too. And Kewell for Serginho.
*

Reina is a joke.
Riise has good shooting skills. That's pretty much it.
Carragher for Kaladze... well... I'd even swap Boulahrouz for Kaladze!
Gerrard for Seedorf... big difference in class. Very different players, Gerrard can't produce half what Clarence does and Seedorf on the other hand does not defend. No.
Oli... how much do they want for him?
Kewell, what for? To have a constantly injured player in the squad as an excuse??

Posted by: Portikins May 7 2007, 11:35 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 7 2007, 11:22 PM)
Reina is a joke.

I don't think Mourinho agrees. He's a top-class GK IMO. I hope I change my opinion next 23 May at night. wink.gif

Posted by: dst May 7 2007, 11:58 PM

He's great at blocking penalties... but so is Ricardo... he makes too many mistakes IMO to be considered top class.

Posted by: Portikins May 8 2007, 01:12 AM

QUOTE (dst @ May 7 2007, 11:58 PM)
He's great at blocking penalties... but so is Ricardo... he makes too many mistakes IMO to be considered top class.
*

He's still young for a keeper (24) and improving. But for me he's already on top with:

Buffon, Dida, Casillas, Canizares, Gomes, Cech, Coupet, Newcastle one (I think I'm not mistaken, I just dunno the name), Isaksson, Sorensen, Stekelenburg, CSKA Moscow one...

I didn't know his penalty records but it's amazing (Reina). In Villarreal he saved 7 from 9 in La Liga. ohmy.gif Not even Ricardo...

Posted by: Tennie May 8 2007, 02:42 AM

Sadly for CSKA, Akinfeev (the keeper) tore cruciate ligaments in his knee and will be out for some months. I agree though: he's quite good.

By the way --- someone who knows the English press better might want to take a look --- I saw reports that Pepe Reina had some sort of shoulder injury? Anyone else see this?

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 07:01 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 8 2007, 12:12 AM)
I didn't know his penalty records but it's amazing (Reina). In Villarreal he saved 7 from 9 in La Liga.  ohmy.gif  Not even Ricardo...
*

ohmy.gif So we better stay clear of penalty shoot outs, if we're going to win the game better do it in normal time

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 8 2007, 07:54 AM

F@ck Reina, Dida for life king.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 8 2007, 09:01 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 8 2007, 04:54 PM)
F@ck Reina, Dida for life king.gif
*

smile.gif smile.gif smile.gif

Posted by: dst May 8 2007, 11:12 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 8 2007, 03:12 AM)
But for me he's already on top with:

Buffon
*

And you're telling me you're not quick to praise!?? rolleyes.gif

Or is that, Buffon is "just a keeper"?? wink.gif

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 09:01 AM)
ohmy.gif So we better stay clear of penalty shoot outs, if we're going to win the game better do it in normal time
*

Unless we practice our penalty-taking really hard [from Kaka (who might have a good record but I don't think he takes them so good) to Seedorf (...)] and find a way not to get distracted by the gay dance Reina (just like Dudek and the other one they had in 1984 (?) against Roma) will perform then we are going to lose in the shoot-out. But I don't think it will go that far...

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 11:21 AM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 10:12 AM)
And you're telling me you're not quick to praise!??  rolleyes.gif

Or is that, Buffon is "just a keeper"??  wink.gif
Unless we practice our penalty-taking really hard [from Kaka (who might have a good record but I don't think he takes them so good) to Seedorf (...)] and find a way not to get distracted by the gay dance Reina (just like Dudek and the other one they had in 1984 (?) against Roma) will perform then we are going to lose in the shoot-out. But I don't think it will go that far...
*

See, I don't think we should let Seedorf go anywhere near taking that penalty.

If it where up to me on who should take them I would start it with one of out best takers and end it with another good one, ie. start with Pirlo and end it with Kaka.

I still believe Kaka takes great penalties, he was unlucky last Sunday, ok so the one against Palermo was poor but other then that he's a great taker.

Oddo also who has a 100% record and Janku takes a very good penalty.

Guys like Pippo, Rino and Seedorf should stay away from pens though

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 11:30 AM

Gattuso bites back at Gerrard

Gennaro Gattuso has told Liverpool ace Steven Gerrard that he’s no kitten. “I’m a pitbull,” roared the Milan man.

The two players will again come face to face in the Champions League Final on May 23, a repeat of the Istanbul finale when the English side came from 3-0 down to lift the trophy on penalties.

Gerrard, a key figure in that astonishing fight back, belittled Gattuso in his autobiography by insisting that he wasn’t worried about the Italian prior to the 2005 clash.

“People rate the Italian for some reason. For me, he is all mouth. He looks aggressive, but he is as scary as a kitten,” wrote the Liverpool man.

When told of the insert, Gattuso replied: “I don’t believe he really said those things, but if he did I can only reply that I don’t feel like a kitten, but like a pitbull.

“I will never forget that Final and I’ve seen it at least four or five times since.

“That summer I went on vacation with Paolo Maldini and Massimo Ambrosini. It was terrible and we never went to bed later than 10 o’clock.”

The Rossoneri have had an incredible season after initially not even being included in the Champions League because of their Calciopoli involvement.

“No one believed that we would reach the Final, not even boss Carlo Ancelotti,” continued Gattuso.

“Two days before the Trofeo Berlusconi the Coach told us to put the Champions League aside, but after the Christmas break everything changed.

“This has been a strange season, it wasn’t easy after the World Cup fatigue, but luckily things improved after the summer.”

Posted by: IoRDanCHo May 8 2007, 11:31 AM

Forget about tactics, spirit, revenge and things like that!
There is a man above all of us and is going to put everything where it belongs, by that i mean he will put a 7-th cup in our museum in Milano!
2 years ago he made a jeer with us and now and the end we will celebrate!!!

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 11:31 AM

Does anybody know where I could find any excerpts from this 'book' ?

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 8 2007, 11:44 AM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 07:12 PM)
And you're telling me you're not quick to praise!??  rolleyes.gif

Or is that, Buffon is "just a keeper"??  wink.gif
Unless we practice our penalty-taking really hard [from Kaka (who might have a good record but I don't think he takes them so good) to Seedorf (...)] and find a way not to get distracted by the gay dance Reina (just like Dudek and the other one they had in 1984 (?) against Roma) will perform then we are going to lose in the shoot-out. But I don't think it will go that far...
*


If that is his record while at Villareal (7 saves from 9 penalties), then that is absolutely unbelievable! We should do everything we can to win the game in 90 minutes and if it does go to extra time then Ancelotti should really push hard for a winner, even if means taking some risks. I don't know if we would hold our nerve in a penalty shootout after what happened in 2005.

If Liverpool win it will probably because they out-fought us rather than out-played us. That's what makes them such a good cup team, because they will fight very hard and right up to the last minute. What they have achieved in cup competitions over the last 3 seasons deserves respect:

* CL Winners in 2005
* FA Cup Winners in 2006
* CL Finalists in 2007.

It is going to be a very tough game. We will need to be near the level we reached against Man U in the San Siro to win.

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 8 2007, 11:58 AM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 06:31 PM)
Does anybody know where I could find any excerpts from this 'book' ?
*


Purchasing it. tongue.gif

Maybe the city library..

Do any of the milan players have autobiographies.. I'd assume paolo would have one and if not that would knock of gerrard's book.

Apparently the most sold book by a player, even more than pele.

I was looking at the gerrard profile last night.. he got some recognition from the queen or something..

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 12:06 PM

QUOTE (fresh_prince7 @ May 8 2007, 10:58 AM)
Purchasing it. tongue.gif
*

Yeay like I would waste my money on that c_nts book rolleyes.gif biggrin.gif

QUOTE (fresh_prince7 @ May 8 2007, 10:58 AM)
I was looking at the gerrard profile last night.. he got some recognition from the queen or something..
*

The queen likes to give her recognition for f@ckers like him for some reason. She's old and cenile, no wonder... rolleyes.gif

Posted by: dst May 8 2007, 01:02 PM

Paolo's autobiography?? There's not enough space in Earth to take all the volumes... Plus, his career is not over yet... Only a money-grabbing b!tch would write one at 25... rolleyes.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 01:07 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 12:02 PM)
Paolo's autobiography?? There's not enough space in Earth to take all the volumes... Plus, his career is not over yet... Only a money-grabbing b!tch would write one at 25...  rolleyes.gif
*

Very true, and talking like that about Rino Gattuso when there is still every possibility to play against him again is not smart

Posted by: dst May 8 2007, 01:22 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 03:07 PM)
Very true, and talking like that about Rino Gattuso when there is still every possibility to play against him again is not smart
*

Respect is something some people never learn about... after all, Gennaro Ivan Gattuso of Corigliano Calabro is a World Cup winner, what is Steven Gerrard?? rolleyes.gif cool.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 8 2007, 02:03 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 10:22 PM)
Respect is something some people never learn about... after all, Gennaro Ivan Gattuso of Corigliano Calabro is a World Cup winner, what is Steven Gerrard??  rolleyes.gif  cool.gif
*

never thought i'd say this but he's a big shiny loser.

can't believe he said those things.

Posted by: Portikins May 8 2007, 02:14 PM



I want to see this again. Berlusconi deserves it. cool.gif

Posted by: dst May 8 2007, 02:22 PM

Silvio wub.gif

Tell the boys what they need to do and they'll do it, Boss!! king.gif

QUOTE
Milan make Final offer
Tuesday 8 May, 2007

Milan season ticket holders will be given a priority purchase option for the Champions League Final, confirmed the club on Tuesday.

The Rossoneri will face Liverpool in Athens on May 23 and Vice-President Adriano Galliani wants only the outfit’s most loyal supporters present in the Olympic Stadium.

“I am trying to do something romantic by bringing only our season ticket holders to Athens,” said Galliani on Tuesday.

“I see that someone is attacking me for this decision, but I am sure it mirrors the Milanisti’s real spirit.

“I believe that the supporters who have been following the team every Sunday over the past 10, 20 years, and don’t go to the stadium just to see Milan-Manchester United, deserve to travel to Athens.

“As long as I am the director of this club, I will do all I can to favour the fans who always show up at the San Siro to see Milan, no matter what happens.”

Milan have been handed 17,000 tickets by UEFA and every season ticket holder is free to buy one ticket from the club’s website before noon on Wednesday May 9.

“The tickets assigned by UEFA are not enough for all the 2006-07 season ticket holders,” read a note on the website.

”If there are more than 17,000 requests made then the most faithful supporters will be privileged.”


http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/may8i.html


I think that's a correct decision!

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 8 2007, 03:49 PM

^^^ Definitely. It's good to have a full stadium for the derbies and the big CL matches but some reward should be given to the people that are there every second week for matches against the likes of Livorno, Udinese, Siena etc when the stadium is not full.

I guess this decision is partly the result of the new laws recently introduced in Italy which ban the block sale of away tickets to supporter groups. I may be wrong here, but my understanding is that previously all the tickets for the important away matches in the CL would go to the heads of the ultra groups who would then distribute them out amongst the ultras. Apparently it used to be quite difficult to get tickets unless you knew the right people.

Again, I may be wrong about the above. That's just my understanding of the ultra culture based on what I've heard from my cousins and other ultras.

Posted by: jefri91 May 8 2007, 05:30 PM

yyyyyyyyyay

Posted by: jefri91 May 8 2007, 05:46 PM



I guess this is seating arrangment for us?

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 06:09 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 12:22 PM)
Respect is something some people never learn about... after all, Gennaro Ivan Gattuso of Corigliano Calabro is a World Cup winner, what is Steven Gerrard??  rolleyes.gif  cool.gif
*

A scouser sleep.gif

QUOTE (jefri91 @ May 8 2007, 04:46 PM)


I guess this is seating arrangment for us?
*

Isn't that way too small. We really can't let the liverpool fans out number us 3:1 again like in Istanbul.

How much is the capacity of the olympic stadium?

Posted by: jefri91 May 8 2007, 06:14 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 05:09 PM)
A scouser  sleep.gif
Isn't that way too small. We really can't let the liverpool fans out number us 3:1 again like in Istanbul.

How much is the capacity of the olympic stadium?
*

All i know is that its huge

Posted by: Portikins May 8 2007, 07:08 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 06:09 PM)
A scouser  sleep.gif
Isn't that way too small. We really can't let the liverpool fans out number us 3:1 again like in Istanbul.

How much is the capacity of the olympic stadium?
*

Capacity: 72,000 seats

http://www.stadiumguide.com/oaka.htm

My prediction: 20k italians, 50.000 english... rolleyes.gif

Posted by: Tennie May 8 2007, 07:19 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 8 2007, 02:08 PM)
Capacity: 72,000 seats

http://www.stadiumguide.com/oaka.htm

My prediction: 20k italians, 50.000 english...  rolleyes.gif
*


+ 1 Greek. dst's gonna be there, right?

Posted by: Portikins May 8 2007, 07:21 PM



Andryi Shevchenko accepted the invitation (by Milan) and will be at the stadium for the final.

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 8 2007, 07:35 PM

Giving him a look at what could have been.

Damn the rossoneri colours suited him so well too.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 8 2007, 07:45 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 08:09 PM)
Isn't that way too small. We really can't let the liverpool fans out number us 3:1 again like in Istanbul.

How much is the capacity of the olympic stadium?
*


No they wont be outnumbering us ... The area shaded red is the 3rd category; designated just for Milan fans ... The area in front of it (behind the otehr goal) is 3rd catergory too, designated for liverfool fans. The are in the corner, is category 2 and is a neutral fan zone ... Category 1 is in the middle (facing the middle line, most expensive $2,240/seat) and it is a neutral zone too.


So, I spoke to a friend of mine in Italy and the tickets are sold out. So expect the italian fans to occupy almost 40% of this stadium.

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 07:53 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 8 2007, 06:21 PM)


Andryi Shevchenko accepted the invitation (by Milan) and will be at the stadium for the final.
*

How do you know this porto?

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 8 2007, 06:45 PM)
No they wont be outnumbering us ... The area shaded red is the 3rd category; designated just for Milan fans ... The area in front of it (behind the otehr goal) is 3rd catergory too, designated for liverfool fans. The are in the corner, is category 2 and is a neutral fan zone ... Category 1 is in the middle (facing the middle line, most expensive $2,240/seat) and it is a neutral zone too.
So, I spoke to a friend of mine in Italy and the tickets are sold out. So expect the italian fans to occupy almost 40% of this stadium.
*


I hope so, although I still think that the pool fans will outnumber ours

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 8 2007, 08:02 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 09:53 PM)
I hope so, although I still think that the pool fans will outnumber ours
*


Oh there will be a HUGE liverfool gay parade alright, but not all of them will attend -a lot will be in athena, but watching the game from a screen in some park somewhere.

Liverfool fans would accumilate to 60% at best of the stadium; ehm, this is a vendetta han, not a normal final wink.gif Many Milan fans are paying crazy prices just to be there!!! Personally I know 7 who have tickets for category 1 (in italy) and are leaving on the 20th, and by the way it looks, Milan fans are breaking the bank just to make it to the match.

This is a special game ... Vendetta is the key here cool.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 8 2007, 08:13 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 8 2007, 07:02 PM)
Oh there will be a HUGE liverfool gay parade alright, but not all of them will attend -a lot will be in athena, but watching the game from a screen in some park somewhere.

Liverfool fans would accumilate to 60% at best of the stadium; ehm, this is a vendetta han, not a normal final wink.gif Many Milan fans are paying crazy prices just to be there!!! Personally I know 7 who have tickets for category 1 (in italy) and are leaving on the 20th, and by the way it looks, Milan fans are breaking the bank just to make it to the match.

This is a special game ... Vendetta is the key here cool.gif
*

That's good to here smile.gif

Let's hope all those people will see Paolo lift the trophy smile.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 8 2007, 09:47 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 8 2007, 10:13 PM)
That's good to here  smile.gif

Let's hope all those people will see Paolo lift the trophy  smile.gif
*


No doubt ..

I have never been to a CL game, let alone a final, let alone a vendetta, let alone Paolo's last CL final !!!! sad.gif sad.gif sad.gif


I wish I had a chance !


Many Milan faithfuls are going .. Expect an atmosphere like that against Manchester, but expect the noise to be 10X louder and expect Kaka to raise his hands to the sky 3 times on that night !

I am seriously going crazy over here ... There are some I know who put their names on the UEFA raffel and won ... Now they just need a plane and reservations for one night. The ticket cost them like 100 Euros for 2 people ...

Guys ... We are missing out BIG time .. This is a night above all other, the sheer magnitude of this match is HUGE. Paolo's last CL trophy !

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 8 2007, 09:59 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 8 2007, 11:47 PM)
No doubt ..

I have never been to a CL game, let alone a final, let alone a vendetta, let alone Paolo's last CL final !!!! sad.gif  sad.gif  sad.gif
I wish I had a chance !
Many Milan faithfuls are going .. Expect an atmosphere like that against Manchester, but expect the noise to be 10X louder and expect Kaka to raise his hands to the sky 3 times on that night !

I am seriously going crazy over here ... There are some I know who put their names on the UEFA raffel and won ... Now they just need a plane and reservations for one night. The ticket cost them like 100 Euros for 2 people ...

Guys ... We are missing out BIG time .. This is a night above all other, the sheer magnitude of this match is HUGE. Paolo's last CL trophy !
*



Ok reality check .. I am gonna be eating my nails on the couch in my room sad.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 8 2007, 10:07 PM

I hope the fans will go as crazy as this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uO96_VlLbKc

Posted by: dst May 9 2007, 12:15 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 8 2007, 09:08 PM)
Capacity: 72,000 seats

http://www.stadiumguide.com/oaka.htm

My prediction: 20k italians, 50.000 english...  rolleyes.gif
*

Not really. On that night, only 65,000 seats will be available for fans. There will be lots of neutral fans, I know many people who got tickets for the night and support neither of the two finalists.

Scousers will still be more though but my bet would be 60%-40%... If 1000 Milan fans can "out-shout" Old Trafford then Athens will be painted red & black!! devil.gif

QUOTE (Tennie @ May 8 2007, 09:19 PM)
+ 1 Greek. dst's gonna be there, right?
*

Hopefully!! biggrin.gif

Forza Milan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! king.gif

Posted by: Fillipo Simone May 9 2007, 12:25 AM

QUOTE (Tennie @ May 8 2007, 07:19 PM)
+ 1 Greek. dst's gonna be there, right?
*

+ 1 Croat...as it looks now, I`m gonna be there as well...

Posted by: Bluesummers May 9 2007, 02:42 AM

For us to win this match its gonna be key we watched our attack. Liverpool's counter attacking long ball tactics will destroy us if were not careful. I would personally prefer inzaghi to start this game because he will be closely watched. Kaka and seedorf will be bringing up the attack with pirlo hitting in long balls. Ambro and gattuso will have to be playing a perfect game, gattuso with gerrard and ambro with the high balls. We can't rely too much on paolo eventhough he is probably the best defender in the world, his speed isn't what it used to be. Ofcourse i doubt anybody would be able to actually get passed him 1-1. Janku should stay a bit back, but oddo should go up and hit hard. I've watched alot of liverpool matches and gerrard usually switches from right to middle. They prefer right route instead of left. Hopefully carlo knows all this and thinks of a good formation to counter it. I would personally go:

----------------dida
------nesta-----paolo---janku
-oddo
-------gattuso---pirlo----ambro
-----------seedorf
-----kaka------
-----------------inzaghi

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 9 2007, 09:34 AM

I agree with Bluesummers on the line up. Plus Gila can be great off the bench, as he shown vs United. cool.gif

Having Ambro, Gattuso and Pirlo in the midfield will really help us, Rino can try and take Gerrard out of the game, like he did with Cristiano, and we'll still have 2 in the middle to battle with Alonso.

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 9 2007, 12:29 PM

I see three likely approaches for Liverpool in this one:

* Conservative
* Counter attacking
* Aggressive

CONSERVATIVE:

--------------------Reina------------------------
Finnan---Agger----Carragher------Riise/Arbeloa
Gerrard---Masch---Alonso-------Zenden/Riise
------------Kuyt------------------------------------
----------------------Crouch----------------------

This is mainly based around keeping things very tight in midfield and defence with the main avenue of attack sending long balls up to Crouch with Kuyt in a withdrawn position. An example is the way they played against Chelsea in the second leg. It's a low risk strategy that would mainly be aimed at stifling our attacking play and scoring from set pieces won around the box by playing aerial balls up to Crouch.

COUNTER ATTACK:

-------------------Reina------------------------
Finnan---Agger----Carragher------Arbeloa
Gerrard---Masch---Alonso------------Riise
------------Kuyt-------Bellamy--------------------

Again, this strategy keeps things pretty tight in midfield and defence but has more pace up front for counter attacks. This is how Liverpool played away against Barca and it worked with a 2-1 result. It's a good strategy to use against a team like Milan who play with attacking fullbacks and has a slightly less pacy central defence. Sissoko could replace either Mascherano or Alonso in the midfield if they want to mark Kaka.

AGGRESSIVE:

-------------------Reina--------------------------
Finnan-----Agger------Carragher---Riise/Arbeloa
SG/JP------Masch-------XA/SG-------Kewell/Riise
------------Kuyt------Crouch/Bellamy------------

This is Benitez's most attacking strategy and it involves the use of specialist flank players such as Pennant and Kewell to play horizontal balls from dangerous positions. Kewell is coming back to fitness and is an option on the left, but if he doesn't play it will probably be Riise with Arbeloa slotting in at left back. If they play Pennant on the right then Gerrard will probably partner Mascherano or Alonso in the middle, otherwise Gerrard will be on the right with XA and JM in the centre. I doubt that Benitez will start with both Pennant and Kewell from the outset.

I would put my money on Benitez starting with the conservative strategy, mainly because we have conceded a few goals from set pieces recently and this is the best strategy for exploiting that weakness. It plays to their strengths (difficult to break down, dangerous from set pieces) and is what Benitez went for against Chelsea when they needed a win. Also, if he starts that way he can "build it up" to a more attacking situation if they need a goal, whereas it's not so easy the other way around.

Benitez has a few options available to him and he's a very very good tactician. Ancelotti is also one of the best tacticians going around, but our system in the CL is pretty much set (4-3-2-1, unless there are injuries to key players) so we are somewhat predictable in that sense. That in itself is not a bad thing, as everyone knew the system Barca used last season but no one could actually beat them. Benitez is what I fear the most about Liverpool. He's the ace in their ranks, as much as Kaka is ours.

Posted by: arivanjj May 9 2007, 01:24 PM

Seedorf eyes Liverpool revenge

Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf has admitted that he wants revenge when he comes face to face with Liverpool in the Champions League Final.

The two teams meet in the European Cup Final again this month just two years after the English club overturned a 3-0 deficit to win the Istanbul showdown on penalties.

“We want to get our revenge against Liverpool, obviously only in a sporting sense,” the Dutchman told the Spanish newspaper AS.

“I cried that night in Turkey as it’s tough to lose the Cup in just six minutes…

“It will be a difficult tie where I am sure physical strength will make the difference. The key to the match will be our ability to score more than them.

“We were impressive against Manchester United in the semi-final. They are a great side, but we proved that we are superior when it comes to strength, will and determination.

“If we win then I would like to dedicate the victory to my family, friends and all those who have been part of my career.”

The 31-year-old, who joined Milan in 2002 from Inter, has won the Champions League with a record three different outfits – Real Madrid, Ajax and the Rossoneri.

“I feel privileged to have played so many games in the Champions League with many important teams,” explained the Dutchman.

“I am a better player compared to when I played in Madrid or even two, three years ago.

“Experience helps to improve and I hope I will continue to do so. I always train with desire and intensity.”

Seedorf was also questioned on Barcelona sensation Ronaldinho, who has been paired with a summer move to the San Siro.

“He might come as he was already linked with us last year, but we will all just have to wait and see,” he continued.

“Having so many high-quality players in your side allows you to increase the chances of obtaining important results.”


http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/may9g.html

Posted by: jefri91 May 9 2007, 01:53 PM

QUOTE (Bluesummers @ May 9 2007, 01:42 AM)
----------------dida
------nesta-----paolo---janku
-oddo
-------gattuso---pirlo----ambro
-----------seedorf
-----kaka------
-----------------inzaghi
*

I really don't like that because of how our side looks like.
1 side has nesta, oddo, and gattuso which is pretty good but on the other side is jankulovoski and ambrosini rolleyes.gif all they need is a long pass over those 2 and we're done.

----------------Dida
--Oddo--nesta-----Maldini---janku
-----gattuso---pirlo----ambro
-----------Kaka-----seedorf
---------------inzaghi/gila

something exactly to the one we used against Man United or something similar

Posted by: han2503 May 9 2007, 03:21 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 8 2007, 11:15 PM)
Hopefully!!  biggrin.gif
Forza Milan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  king.gif
*

QUOTE (Fillipo Simone @ May 8 2007, 11:25 PM)
+ 1 Croat...as it looks now, I`m gonna be there as well...
*


You lucky biatches!!! mad.gif tongue.gif

Posted by: dst May 10 2007, 12:46 AM



biggrin.gif Go Milan, I believe in you!!

Posted by: MizNelson May 10 2007, 04:46 AM

We're all nervous about the upcoming match, so here's a laugh for you. This was during halftime of tonight's 6-2 massacre. smile.gif

QUOTE (some guy on the Merda forums)
if we get 1 more goal to make the final result 4-2, we can win at home with a 1-0 result

No team manages to rain on their own parade so much than Inter. smile.gif

Posted by: m1ke May 10 2007, 10:26 AM

QUOTE (tom_valtellina @ May 9 2007, 11:29 AM)
I see three likely approaches for Liverpool in this one:

* Conservative
* Counter attacking
* Aggressive

CONSERVATIVE:

--------------------Reina------------------------
Finnan---Agger----Carragher------Riise/Arbeloa
Gerrard---Masch---Alonso-------Zenden/Riise
------------Kuyt------------------------------------
----------------------Crouch----------------------

This is mainly based around keeping things very tight in midfield and defence with the main avenue of attack sending long balls up to Crouch with Kuyt in a withdrawn position. An example is the way they played against Chelsea in the second leg. It's a low risk strategy that would mainly be aimed at stifling our attacking play and scoring from set pieces won around the box by playing aerial balls up to Crouch.

COUNTER ATTACK:

-------------------Reina------------------------
Finnan---Agger----Carragher------Arbeloa
Gerrard---Masch---Alonso------------Riise
------------Kuyt-------Bellamy--------------------

Again, this strategy keeps things pretty tight in midfield and defence but has more pace up front for counter attacks. This is how Liverpool played away against Barca and it worked with a 2-1 result. It's a good strategy to use against a team like Milan who play with attacking fullbacks and has a slightly less pacy central defence. Sissoko could replace either Mascherano or Alonso in the midfield if they want to mark Kaka.

AGGRESSIVE:

-------------------Reina--------------------------
Finnan-----Agger------Carragher---Riise/Arbeloa
SG/JP------Masch-------XA/SG-------Kewell/Riise
------------Kuyt------Crouch/Bellamy------------

This is Benitez's most attacking strategy and it involves the use of specialist flank players such as Pennant and Kewell to play horizontal balls from dangerous positions. Kewell is coming back to fitness and is an option on the left, but if he doesn't play it will probably be Riise with Arbeloa slotting in at left back. If they play Pennant on the right then Gerrard will probably partner Mascherano or Alonso in the middle, otherwise Gerrard will be on the right with XA and JM in the centre. I doubt that Benitez will start with both Pennant and Kewell from the outset.

I would put my money on Benitez starting with the conservative strategy, mainly because we have conceded a few goals from set pieces recently and this is the best strategy for exploiting that weakness. It plays to their strengths (difficult to break down, dangerous from set pieces) and is what Benitez went for against Chelsea when they needed a win. Also, if he starts that way he can "build it up" to a more attacking situation if they need a goal, whereas it's not so easy the other way around.

Benitez has a few options available to him and he's a very very good tactician. Ancelotti is also one of the best tacticians going around, but our system in the CL is pretty much set (4-3-2-1, unless there are injuries to key players) so we are somewhat predictable in that sense. That in itself is not a bad thing, as everyone knew the system Barca used last season but no one could actually beat them. Benitez is what I fear the most about Liverpool. He's the ace in their ranks, as much as Kaka is ours.
*

Great post, and pretty much sums up my feels on the game too king.gif

I'd feel much more comfortable with facing Kuyt+Bellamy rather than Kuyt+Crouch.

Posted by: dst May 10 2007, 12:11 PM

A great article indeed tom_valtellina!!

I think Rafa will opt for the conservative formation. In fact, I'm almost certain it's going to be as conservative as it gets.

As for Milan, I don't think we're predictable; how can a team (the only one actually) with 3 no10's on the field be predictable? ...

QUOTE
Reds complain over final tickets

Liverpool have complained about their ticket allocation for the UEFA Champions League final against Milan.

The Reds have been awarded 17,000 seats for the game at the 63,000-capacity Olympic Stadium in Athens, and believe they are entitled to ask Uefa for more.

Liverpool have been criticised by some of their own fans for their methods of distribution, with some having made arrangements to travel only to be told they will not qualify for a ticket.

"The bottom line is that Uefa have not supplied anywhere near enough tickets for the Champions League Final," read a statement from the club.

"Liverpool have expressed their disappointment and frustration to Uefa - but have been told categorically that no more tickets will be allocated to the club, not even the returned tickets from Milan - they will go into a Uefa ballot.

"Liverpool Football Club understands and shares the disappointment of their fans in what is a very frustrating situation.

"Our policy on tickets was available right from the start of the season and has not changed.

"The ballot for Liverpool fans was drawn up to be as fair as possible to fans, but the bottom line is that Uefa have not supplied enough tickets for the match."

Uefa, who has allocated 20,000 tickets to the 'Uefa family' and a further 9,000 via a ballot, insist the system is fair.

"If we built a stadium with a million seats, the match would still sell out and supporters would not be able to see the pitch," Uefa spokesman William Gaillard told the Liverpool Echo.

"It's impossible more will be released in the coming weeks - 17,000 is the final figure."


http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=465839&CPID=5&clid=14&lid=&title=Reds+complain+over+final+tickets&channel=&


dry.gif

"Returned tickets from Milan"?? huh.gif That's bullsh!t, they haven't even been on sale yet.

Whatever.

(!! Question: Sky Sports headlines are in Capital letters but when I copy paste them, they're in lower... anyone knows why? unsure.gif !!)

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 10 2007, 01:47 PM

Brilliant post tom, representing perth well. biggrin.gif

Three #10's.. can't go wrong with three turtles moving around on the pitch.. tongue.gif

If the whole team collectively plays well we'll win, no doubt in my mind.

Firstly it depends on the defensive stability.. with the major threats being the set pieces (which give me a heart attack every time just about) and those damn lapses in concentration. Then it comes down to which dida turns up on the night.

Secondly the holding midfielders just have to do what they did to united and close up the space in the middle and keep a tight leash on them on the wings.

Thirdly if kaka' is some how controlled (I think not tongue.gif) then the freedom seedorf and pirlo will receive must be used wisely as seedorf has done in recent weeks.

Finally if pippo starts, he just has to do what he knows best and if gila starts.. just try and stay out of kaka's way for gods sake.. tongue.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 10 2007, 03:08 PM

QUOTE (BMWTaylor @ May 10 2007, 03:46 AM)
We're all nervous about the upcoming match, so here's a laugh for you. This was during halftime of tonight's 6-2 massacre. smile.gif

QUOTE (some guy on the Merda forums)
if we get 1 more goal to make the final result 4-2, we can win at home with a 1-0 result

No team manages to rain on their own parade so much than Inter. smile.gif
*



laugh.gif laugh.gif

As for Liverpool, I wouldn't be surprised if he dropped Alonso and put BOTH Sissoko and Mascherano in the middle. With Gerrard and puke.gif Zenden on the wings.

I think Pippo will start this one, Carlo trusts him more then Gila and rightly so. Him and Ambro are lucky charms tongue.gif

Posted by: tom_valtellina May 10 2007, 03:35 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 10 2007, 11:08 PM)
I think Pippo will start this one, Carlo trusts him more then Gila and rightly so. Him and Ambro are lucky charms  tongue.gif
*


I really feel that Ambro is an underrated player for us. Not by Milan fans, who appreciate what he brings to the team, but by commentators and pundits in general who rarely seem to mention him.

He's very disciplined, can perform a specific role or task given to him by Ancelotti, wins a lot of balls in midfield, and is always a threat from set pieces (as well as being a good defender of them too).

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 10 2007, 04:44 PM

Ambrosini is a must for our midfield. There is no question about it. The team missed him throughout the season .. As we saw his contribution yet again in the CL.

Forza Ambrosini

Posted by: MizNelson May 11 2007, 04:44 AM

The more people underrate us, the more we'll surprise them. Some people still believe we're underdogs because of the belief that the EPL is superior to Serie A.

Posted by: Bluesummers May 11 2007, 05:37 AM

Our greatest strength against liverpool is the technical ability in the midfield. We can play a controlled possession game, switch to long ball hit or play simple short passes. Plus we have kaka who nobody in liverpool squad has a chance of out pacing. Seedorf who has a brilliant touch and shot. Pirlo who's vision is amazing. Gattuso will destroy anyone who walks in his path. Ambro vs crouch, lets see if the white yao ming has a chance. Oddo who is suprisingly very skilled and can handle CL pressure. Great crossing and a decent shot. Nesta, no one can out class him, best defender in the world. Maldini, more than enough experience. No one can out think out class or out match him . Janku, great pace and a nice left foot cross. Dida, he may have his bad days but i have a feeling he will be ready for may 23. Inzaghi, as saf said he was born offside. He'll be marked closely and he has never failed to score in this big stage. and finally revenge, we hunger for that trophy. So i welcome xabi alonso, sissoko, gerrard, macherano, riise, agger,carragher to try and catch kaka. If man u can't do it, i would love to see them do it.

Posted by: shevchenko_007 May 11 2007, 06:13 AM

^^ everything u said is exactly right and if all the players turn up in the right frame of mind and play to the strengths u just mentioned then the cup and revenge will be ours!

Posted by: arivanjj May 11 2007, 06:26 AM

QUOTE (shevchenko_007 @ May 11 2007, 03:13 PM)
^^ everything u said is exactly right and if all the players turn up in the right frame of mind and play to the strengths u just mentioned then the cup and revenge will be ours!
*

50% of this game will depend on that.

Posted by: jefri91 May 11 2007, 12:27 PM




Friday, 9 March 2007
adidas, the Official Match Ball supplier to all major UEFA, FIFA and IOC tournaments, unveiled the Official Match Ball for the 2007 UEFA Champions League final on 9 March, presenting the adidas Finale Athens.

Technology
The adidas Finale Athens features the successful adidas +Teamgeistâ„¢ technology, a 14-panel configuration. It reduces the number of three-panel touch points by 60 per cent and the total length of panel lines by 15 per cent. This creates a perfectly round ball allowing great accuracy and control for Europe's elite clubs. The combination of the revolutionary panel shape, a new carcass construction and the thermal bonding technology provide this official match ball for the final with the best performance qualities ever.

Starball
The design of the adidas Finale Athens is based on the widely recognisable UEFA Champions League starball logo and is blue and white, representing the colours of the Greek national flag. The adidas Finale Athens is available globally at a retail price of €110.

Posted by: arivanjj May 11 2007, 01:09 PM

hmm... looks nice. abit too much detail.


btw tickets are now sold out!

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant May 11 2007, 01:23 PM

QUOTE (arivanjj @ May 11 2007, 12:09 PM)
hmm... looks nice. abit too much detail.
btw tickets are now sold out!
*

UEFA are ridiculous, they give the tickets all to corporate businesses and the people with the money to promote themselves.

It's a shame that real fans can't go to the ground and watch it, unfortunately the trend is catching on in a lot of football Finals nowadays.

Posted by: han2503 May 11 2007, 01:52 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ May 11 2007, 12:23 PM)
UEFA are ridiculous, they give the tickets all to corporate businesses and the people with the money to promote themselves.

It's a shame that real fans can't go to the ground and watch it, unfortunately the trend is catching on in a lot of football Finals nowadays.
*

Yeah I heard they gave somthing like 20,000 to sponsers. And they they gave us and pool only 17,000 each

Posted by: arivanjj May 11 2007, 01:56 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 11 2007, 10:52 PM)
Yeah I heard they gave somthing like 20,000 to sponsers. And they they gave us and pool only 17,000 each
*

well you can see, to them this is just business!

Posted by: misha May 11 2007, 02:36 PM

BTW Liverpool won all their 5 finals playing in red and against opponents who played in all white. I wonder if Milan new that before choosing the 'lucky' white instead of read & black. Anyway, this time things will be different. We just want it more than them.

Posted by: dst May 11 2007, 03:24 PM

^^
Oh please...

Enough with the history & coincidences talk already!!

On May 23rd in Athens it will be Milan vs Liverpool, not Milan's history vs Liverpool's history!!

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 03:31 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 11 2007, 02:24 PM)
^^
Oh please...

Enough with the history & coincidences talk already!!

On May 23rd in Athens it will be Milan vs Liverpool, not Milan's history vs Liverpool's history!!
*


Well said.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant May 11 2007, 03:33 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 11 2007, 02:24 PM)
^^
Oh please...

Enough with the history & coincidences talk already!!

On May 23rd in Athens it will be Milan vs Liverpool, not Milan's history vs Liverpool's history!!
*

laugh.gif Very true.

Posted by: misha May 11 2007, 04:12 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 11 2007, 05:24 PM)
^^
Oh please...

Enough with the history & coincidences talk already!!

On May 23rd in Athens it will be Milan vs Liverpool, not Milan's history vs Liverpool's history!!
*

Just some facts that's all. Did I said it will be crucial for the game?

Posted by: dst May 11 2007, 04:39 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ May 11 2007, 06:12 PM)
Just some facts that's all. Did I said it will be crucial for the game?
*

No need to get into this really... It wasn't meant at you, it's just that everywhere I look people only talk about the past!

Posted by: han2503 May 11 2007, 05:19 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ May 11 2007, 02:33 PM)
laugh.gif  Very true.
*

I think these coincedences do SOMETIMES come into it. Like for example Italy at the last world cup, there where a lot of different coincedences that coincided with that year.

Bu the kit thing is total BS, up until the 2005 final we had never lost a final in a white kit, but guess what it happened. There's a first thing for everything and hopefully it will also occur for Liverpool on the 23rd cool.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 09:06 PM

QUOTE
Nesta charmed in Athens 

Friday 11 May, 2007 ::: channel4.com


Alessandro Nesta has had good fortune in Athens and hopes that lucky charm continues when Milan face Liverpool on May 23.

“These are the nights when history is made, so we must win,” he said of the Champions League Final.

“I have already been to Athens to play with Lazio. On that day, we got a victory…”


The former Biancocelesti defender beat Panionios Athens 4-0 on their way to the 1998-99 Cup Winners’ Cup.

Most famously, the Olympic Stadium – the same where they’ll take on Liverpool later this month – was the stage for Milan’s 4-0 demolition of favourites Barcelona in the Champions League Final.

With Paolo Maldini still a doubt to play on May 23, the return of Nesta after a long injury lay-off has been crucial.

“I came back at the right moment, I couldn’t have timed it better,” he told ‘Milan Channel.’

“The team was hitting its stride and so did I, that’s where the good results came from. The three-month rest did me a lot of good – as indeed it would have for anyone.”

There is speculation over Nesta’s future at the San Siro, but he insisted there was nothing to worry about.

“Yesterday I received a phone call from Adriano Galliani. Something is in motion now,” he smiled.

It has been reported that Milan’s stars will receive £136,000 each as a bonus if they win the Champions League this season.


Berlusconi promised 200.000 euros for each player if we win. cool.gif

Posted by: dst May 11 2007, 09:15 PM

Nesta!! wub.gif

Wish he'd score a goal in the final!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Forza Alessandro, Forza Milan!!!!!!!! devil.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 09:18 PM

I think it should all come out of Dida's wages too, for making the rest of the team have to work so much harder to cover for his mitakes. tongue.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 09:21 PM



I'd take the scarf. Maybe to 1 day look at him and say "Oh... that's the 2007 scarf - Athens Edition... where we won the 7th".

goodheart.gif

Posted by: dst May 11 2007, 09:26 PM

I'd take the rossoneri baseball cap, along with the Cup!! biggrin.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 09:27 PM

QUOTE (dst @ May 11 2007, 09:26 PM)
I'd take the rossoneri baseball cap, along with the Cup!!  biggrin.gif
*

http://www.milanstore.biz/ - help the team. Buy it. cool.gif

Posted by: whoarethepatriots May 11 2007, 09:30 PM

I dont have much to say, except screw liverpool and forza milan

Posted by: dst May 11 2007, 09:30 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 11 2007, 11:27 PM)
http://www.milanstore.biz/ - help the team. Buy it.  cool.gif
*

'kay will post a picture of me with it! wink.gif

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 11 2007, 10:17 PM

I'd take dst's avator and bang the sh1t out of it biggrin.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 10:22 PM

The one thing that got Liverpool going at half time in Istanbul was hearing their fans sing 'You'll Never Walk Alone' during the break.

It scares me that they could come back again.

It doesn't matter what anyone thinks about English supporters, no other countries fans come close to them, they comfortably the best in the world.

Fact is, English fans do anything to get tickets, others don't. That's why Liverpool fans outnumbered Milan fans without question in Istanbul, we need them silenced early and do what Milan do best, keep the ball, and keep the game flowing at our tempo. Eventually Liverpool fans will start to lose hope, if things are going our away.

WE NEED TO SHUT THEM THE HELL UP!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 11 2007, 10:25 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 12 2007, 12:22 AM)
The one thing that got Liverpool going at half time in Istanbul was hearing their fans sing 'You'll Never Walk Alone' during the break.

It scares me that they could come back again.

It doesn't matter what anyone thinks about English supporters, no other countries fans come close to them, they comfortably the best in the world.

Fact is, English fans do anything to get tickets, others don't. That's why Liverpool fans outnumbered Milan fans without question in Istanbul, we need them silenced early and do what Milan do best, keep the ball, and keep the game flowing at our tempo. Eventually Liverpool fans will start to lose hope, if things are going our away.

WE NEED TO SHUT THEM THE HELL UP!
*


At IStanbul, Milan did silence them all through the first half, and the 3nd half too.

But u got a point, english fans are more into the game than anyother fans ...

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 10:28 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 11 2007, 09:25 PM)
At IStanbul, Milan did silence them all through the first half, and the 3nd half too.

But u got a point, english fans are more into the game than anyother fans ...
*


English fans can also be the most fickle, too.

Turn the supporters on them and the players will drop their heads, we just need to to shu up at half time. ¬_¬

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 10:46 PM

Cmon kurt... if it was Chelsea for example, we'd outnumber them in Athens for sure.

Problem is that Liverpool is probably the most supported team in UK and one of the top worldwide.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 11:02 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 11 2007, 09:46 PM)
Cmon kurt... if it was Chelsea for example, we'd outnumber them in Athens for sure.

Problem is that Liverpool is probably the most supported team in UK and one of the top worldwide.
*


Liverpool are a different case, yes. But the majority of English teams supporters would outnumber mainland European supporters.

There are a few cases such as Chelsea, Spurs and Middlesboro who have awful support and couldn't fill a box if they had to.

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 11:11 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 11 2007, 11:02 PM)
Liverpool are a different case, yes. But the majority of English teams supporters would outnumber mainland European supporters.

There are a few cases such as Chelsea, Spurs and Middlesboro who have awful support and couldn't fill a box if they had to.
*

What about the London teams.

I know Arsenal is the #1 in the city (fanbase). But what about West Ham, Spurs, Chelsea, Fulham... what's the #2, #3... any stat/table?

I'd like to know.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 11 2007, 11:37 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 11 2007, 10:11 PM)
What about the London teams.

I know Arsenal is the #1 in the city (fanbase). But what about West Ham, Spurs, Chelsea, Fulham... what's the #2, #3... any stat/table?

I'd like to know.
*


I've no idea of official numbers, I can only go on what I see.

1. Arsenal
2. Chelsea
3. West Ham
4. Spurs
5. Charlton
6. Watford
7. Fulham

Arsenal and West Ham have great away support too, travel all over. The other 5 teams just have 'local fans' They don't really support their team, more just who their friends and family like.

Posted by: Portikins May 11 2007, 11:48 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 11 2007, 11:37 PM)
I've no idea of official numbers, I can only go on what I see.

1. Arsenal
2. Chelsea
3. West Ham
4. Spurs
5. Charlton
6. Watford
7. Fulham

Arsenal and West Ham have great away support too,  travel all over. The other 5 teams just have 'local fans' They don't really support their team, more just who their friends and family like.
*

Never thought Chelsea was the 2nd. As you call the "derby" Arsenal-Tottenham I thought Spurs were the 2nd.

I thought Chelsea were more like the... how can I say "top-class" from London society. Not many, but usually rich people. At least it was what I read.

West Ham is an historic team. I knew they were up there.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 12 2007, 09:54 AM

I'm having mixed feelings about this game, but I am sure Milan will play for a win no matter what.

Posted by: han2503 May 12 2007, 10:10 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 12 2007, 08:54 AM)
I'm having mixed feelings about this game, but I am sure Milan will play for a win no matter what.
*

Yeah me too, atm I'm more scared of losing rather then thinking about winning.

Posted by: arivanjj May 12 2007, 10:47 AM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 12 2007, 07:10 PM)
Yeah me too, atm I'm more scared of losing rather then thinking about winning.
*

i'm tryin really hard not to think about that sad.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 12 2007, 11:01 AM

QUOTE
Kaka's map to Athens 

Saturday 12 May, 2007 ::: channel4.com

Kaka has urged Milan to bring in Andriy Shevchenko and Ronaldinho next season, revealing as a child he mapped out his career leading up to Athens.

“I chose Milan because in San Paolo I played alongside Leonardo for six months and he was constantly outlining how great the club was,”
explained the 25-year-old who was snapped up for just over £5m in 2003.

“I was very young when I planned out my career. I was going to play for a big club in Brazil, then come to Europe, to Italy, take part in a World Cup and Olympics. At the end of the map was the Champions League Final.”

He will play his second Final on May 23 against Liverpool, the same side that beat the Rossoneri in the 2005 edition on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

“Steven Gerrard is more important to them than Rafa Benitez. He is a great player, a leader on the field and a real focal point for Liverpool,” Kaka told the ‘Corriere dello Sport.’

Another Premiership player will be cheering on Milan, as the club invited Shevchenko to sit in the stands as their guest in Athens. Should the Ukrainian perhaps regret his decision to join Chelsea?

“I am pleased he’ll be there and I wouldn’t speak of a wrong choice. Perhaps in two or three years he will have won everything with Chelsea. Of course it’s worse for him to be in the stands cheering on his ex-teammates.

“It is also disappointing for me, because he is a great friend and a real champion. I would definitely like him back at Milan, so if the President decided to bring him in, I’d be happy.”

Another star Kaka has publicly backed for a San Siro switch is his Brazil teammate Ronaldinho, who was on the end of a fan protest after Barcelona’s Copa del Rey debacle this week.

“He is a great player and there’s no secret we have an excellent rapport. Ronaldinho at Milan would be wonderful, as he’s one of the best in the world. His arrival would be positive both for me and the club.”

If Ronaldinho is the subject of transfer speculation, then so is Kaka, as Real Madrid continue to offer record-breaking fees.

“I have said a thousand times that I have a contract with Milan until 2011 and will respect it. After the summer holidays, unless there are truly extraordinary decisions, I will be a Milan player.

“Only the club can sell me, so if they don’t opt to kick me out, I will remain. I am happy here and feel at home. My family feels good here too and I have the opportunity to learn a great deal.”

Already the Champions League top scorer, Kaka is the hot favourite to pick up the Ballon d’Or at the end of 2007.

“I am in good form as I reached the top at the right time, but I know that overall I can and must improve. It is an individual prize and I leave it to the media to make that decision. In any case, to win the Ballon d’Or you need a team behind you and this is why I am only focused on Athens.”

Posted by: dst May 12 2007, 01:00 PM

Good to see we're not over-confident! cool.gif

Posted by: misha May 13 2007, 09:23 PM

QUOTE
Ancelotti: Bring on Liverpool

Milan are now certain of a top four finish, so Carlo Ancelotti says they can focus on the Champions League Final against Liverpool.

The 1-1 draw with Catania on neutral turf in Bologna proved enough to mathematically earn them a place in next season’s preliminary round, as Empoli were defeated at Siena.

It is an impressive achievement considering the Rossoneri started the campaign with an eight-point Calciopoli penalty.

“We know the way Liverpool play very well, and they can say the same about us,” noted the Coach.

These teams last met in a sensational 3-3 draw in Istanbul, the Premiership outfit going on to win the trophy on penalties in 2005.

Both sides have changed since then and Ancelotti revealed his tactical wish-list for Rafa Benitez.

“When Steven Gerrard is in the middle, Liverpool are less solid in the centre of midfield,” he explained.

“But when he goes wide and Xabi Alonso is in the centre, then they are more protected. I would prefer to face the first option.”

The Champions League Final will be played in Athens on May 23, so Milan’s Serie A match with Udinese has been brought forward to Saturday May 19 at 18.00 local time, 17.00 in the UK.
*

Posted by: weeeow May 13 2007, 09:36 PM

everyone has started hyping up here, in England about the game! rolleyes.gif

they're all saying Milan are the hot favorites

hmmmmmm biggrin.gif

FORZA MILAN!!!!!!!! devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 14 2007, 12:48 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 11 2007, 10:48 PM)
Never thought Chelsea was the 2nd. As you call the "derby" Arsenal-Tottenham I thought Spurs were the 2nd.

I thought Chelsea were more like the... how can I say "top-class" from London society. Not many, but usually rich people. At least it was what I read.

West Ham is an historic team. I knew they were up there.
*


North London derby : Arsenal - Spurs
West London derby: Chelsea - Fulham
East London derby: West Ham - Millwall

It's known as the 'London Derby' because it's the only game between 2 top sides, the others are pretty one-sided.

Posted by: dst May 14 2007, 02:59 PM

QUOTE
Maldini ready for final fling

Milan captain Paolo Maldini has declared himself fit for the UEFA Champions League final against Liverpool.

Maldini made his first appearance in four games in the 1-1 draw with Catania on Sunday.

The former Italy international had been struggling with a knee problem, but after coming through 65 minutes unscathed against Catania he says he is ready to tackle Liverpool in Athens in nine days' time.

"I feel good and the knee didn't give me troubles," Maldini told the Italian press.

"The one with Catania has been a good test because the ground was hard. I have not had troubles.

"I'm optimistic and I think in Athens I will play. I'm really keen on that match."

Maldini was replaced by Kakha Kaladze on Sunday, but Maldini insists the substitution was decided before the match as Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti did not want to take any risks.

"It has been an already defined replacement. I could play until the end but it wasn't the time to risk," concluded Maldini.


http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=466533&CPID=5&clid=120&lid=8&title=Maldini+ready+for+final+fling


Forza... God!! king.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 14 2007, 03:30 PM

Superb news. biggrin.gif

Posted by: berenike_10 May 14 2007, 08:51 PM

great maldini is fit ! so , i think that right now the only doubt in ancellotti's head is who will be the start up striker, most likely will be gilardino , nevertheless i would like to be inzaghi.

Posted by: berenike_10 May 14 2007, 09:11 PM

Possible start up lineup ??? I think will use same line up as before , surely , but my concern is the striker, maybe gilardino is more fit towars the game , but inzaghi has the experience and that killer instinct on the rival's area.


--------------------Dida

----Oddo---Nesta---Maldini---Jankulovski

---------Gatusso---Pirlo---Ambrosini

--------------Seedorf

-------------------------Kaka

---------------Inzaghi / Gilardino

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 14 2007, 10:16 PM

If Maldini is ready, the whole team is ready for him devil.gif devil.gif devil.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 14 2007, 10:46 PM

I'd like to see:

--------------Dida----------------------

Oddo - Nesta - Maldini - Jankulovski

--- Gattuso - Pirlo - Ambrosini ----

--------- Kaka - Seedorf -----------

--------------Inzaghi----------------

With Gila to replace Pippo at some point.

It worked wonders against United, why change it?

Posted by: arivanjj May 14 2007, 11:03 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 07:46 AM)
I'd like to see:

--------------Dida----------------------

Oddo - Nesta - Maldini - Jankulovski

--- Gattuso - Pirlo - Ambrosini ----

--------- Kaka - Seedorf -----------

--------------Inzaghi----------------

that is what we're most likely to see, with Kaka playing in more forward position just behind or next to Pippo

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 14 2007, 11:18 PM

QUOTE (arivanjj @ May 15 2007, 01:03 AM)
that is what we're most likely to see, with Kaka playing in more forward position just behind or next to Pippo
*


I doubt Liverfool's defense can coupe with Kaka ... Inzaghi will be motivated as hell too.

But, yeah Kaka and Inzaghi will be enough to get past their defense. The only worry I have, is if a DM leaches Kaka

Posted by: Bluesummers May 15 2007, 01:13 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 14 2007, 04:18 PM)
I doubt Liverfool's defense can coupe with Kaka ... Inzaghi will be motivated as hell too.

But, yeah Kaka and Inzaghi will be enough to get past their defense. The only worry I have, is if a DM leaches Kaka
*


Do u mean aggressively marking by leaching? I think they will do that no doubt. But if they do seedorf and pirlo have more room, which will cost them dearly if they allow us to play our football.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 15 2007, 01:53 AM

QUOTE (Bluesummers @ May 15 2007, 03:13 AM)
Do u mean aggressively marking by leaching?  I think they will do that no doubt.  But if they do seedorf and pirlo have more room, which will cost them dearly if they allow us to play our football.
*


There is no question about that ...Seedorf will have the game of his life. Pirlo always shows up on the big stage. So whether they mark Kaka or not, we will score. We have to score. It is a vendetta devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: Bluesummers May 15 2007, 05:49 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 14 2007, 06:53 PM)
There is no question about that ...Seedorf will have the game of his life. Pirlo always shows up on the big stage. So whether they mark Kaka or not, we will score. We have to score. It is a vendetta devilsmiley.gif
*



Well from the day that milan beat manu and advanced to finals to now, i've played 32 pes 6 games(actual match time, yes i am excited). Out of the 32 i won 24 and liverpool won 8. Whenever i were to run with kaka, it would be sissoko, xabi along with riise ****** him litterly, but inzaghi and seedorf were completely let loose. Anyways on average i'd say the score for all matches would be something around 4-2 for us. Ofcourse this is all pes which means jack sh!t, but just saying that our odds are 3:1. biggrin.gif


forza milan.

Posted by: arivanjj May 15 2007, 07:24 AM

QUOTE (Bluesummers @ May 15 2007, 02:49 PM)
Well from the day that milan beat manu and advanced to finals to now, i've played 32 pes 6 games(actual match time, yes i am excited).  Out of the 32 i won 24 and liverpool won 8.  Whenever i were to run with kaka, it would be sissoko, xabi along with riise ****** him litterly, but inzaghi and seedorf were completely let loose.  Anyways on average i'd say the score for all matches would be something around 4-2 for us.  Ofcourse this is all pes which means jack sh!t, but just saying that our odds are 3:1.  biggrin.gif
forza milan.
*

ohmy.gif ohmy.gif

don't you go to school or something!!?



well today i had the day off after all my exams and i made this wallpaper (this is the first time i've done a wall) biggrin.gif

http://img503.imageshack.us/my.php?image=milanclnt3.png

Posted by: fresh_prince7 May 15 2007, 01:38 PM

Nice work ari.

Nearly just a week away, still got to work out how I'm going to get off an assessment which is on like during extra time if it goes that far.. even so I'll be way to amped when we win. Now whats a good excuse. tongue.gif

Still waiting for my jersey to be sent from milanstore.. anyone else buy anything..

Better get here on time. devil.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 02:06 PM

Very nice work ari. As usual from you. wink.gif

Posted by: jefri91 May 15 2007, 07:40 PM

Im so nervous.... but yet I have a feeling that we're going to win.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:06 PM

What line-up do you expect to see from Liverpool?

---------------- Reina ---------------

Finnan - Carragher - Agger - Riise

Pennant - Alonso - Mascherano - Zenden

----------------Gerrard------------------

-----------------Kuyt--------------------

I can't see Kewell starting, not after the 2005 Final.

There's always the chance Riise could play left mid, with Carragher going to left back and Hyypia/Arbeloa filling in at the back. Crouch maybe for a 2 up front?

There's line-ups much harder to predict than ours!

Posted by: dst May 15 2007, 08:12 PM

I don't think Benitez will field Gerrard on the center... it's not like he wants to play football...

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:16 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 07:06 PM)
What line-up do you expect to see from Liverpool?

---------------- Reina ---------------

Finnan - Carragher - Agger - Riise

Pennant - Alonso - Mascherano - Zenden

----------------Gerrard------------------

-----------------Kuyt--------------------

I can't see Kewell starting, not after the 2005 Final.

There's always the chance Riise could play left mid, with Carragher going to left back and Hyypia/Arbeloa filling in at the back. Crouch maybe for a 2 up front?

There's line-ups much harder to predict than ours!
*

No doubt that Rafa will try to 'surprise' us with a different line-up. And I personally am fully expecting him to field Kewell or Zenden, imo both are average players.

Now I personally am expecting him to field someting like this for the midfield, the defence basically picks itself imo.

Gerrard--Sissoko--Mascherano--Kewell/Zenden

His strategy will be to completely try to stifle our midfield and hopefully put 1 in from a set piece or a long ball directed at Crouch.

Carlo said that he feels they play better with Gerrard on the right, which I am completely sure is a cheeky stratigy on his part since it's pretty obvious that they play better with Gerrard in the middle.

Imo the only concern we should have is to go out there and play our game, for example against Barca I can still distinctly remeber moments in the game when Barca where passing them off the park, but then they scored with that terrible piece of goal keeping from Valdes and got that winner after Motta passed the ball to Riise in the penalty area rolleyes.gif

If we manage to play at the same level for the entire 90 minutes and not fade away like we have done in previous games, keep our concentration to the maximum at all times and defend well on set-pieces then we have a really good chance of putting the game to bed in normal time. But if any of the above things that I pointed out happen then we will lose this. And I cannot imagine losing another final to those scousers, not after what happened the last time cry.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:22 PM

2 from Alonso, Sissoko & Mascherano is what I'm ecpting in the middle.

They'll pin them both on Kaka' at all times. I suppose that gives Pirlo and Seedorf to work their magical passes. biggrin.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:22 PM

Maldini starts Final countdown

Milan captain Paolo Maldini will only feature in the Champions League Final against Liverpool on May 23 if he is 100 per cent fit.

The defender is keen to appear in his 29th professional Final, but he is a doubt for the game because of a persistent knee problem.

“After the game against Catania on Sunday my knee swelled up, but that was expected,” said Maldini to Milan Channel.

“I have to follow a personalised training programme this week, but I know I can be fit for the game against Liverpool,” continued the 38-year-old.

“However, I will only play if I am 100 per cent fit. Otherwise I will have no problems in giving my place to somebody else.”

Maldini has appeared in four Finals crowning Milan as European champions in 1989, 1990, 1994 and 2003 and is looking forward to writing yet another page in the club’s history.

“I always believed we could reach the Final this season and so did the Coach,” explained the Rossonero who is in his 23rd season at the San Siro.

“Now we have the chance to write history. The Istanbul defeat in 2005 still hurts, but I am sure Liverpool know they will never win a match like that again,” he added.

“Compared to our last two Finals in Manchester and Istanbul we are in much better shape this time around.

“This is the joy and honour of playing for Milan, to always be able to compete at the highest level and have the possibility of winning important trophies.

“My personal balance says that I have won four Finals and lost three, there is no way I want to even things out!”

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:25 PM

I really hope he plays.

Kaladze, full credit to him, did a great job against United in the second leg, and Bonera wasn't too bad in the first leg.

But I think there's no doubt we need the Nesta/Paolo partnership in the middle.

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:29 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 07:22 PM)
2 from Alonso, Sissoko & Mascherano is what I'm ecpting in the middle.

They'll pin them both on Kaka' at all times. I suppose that gives Pirlo and Seedorf to work their magical passes.  biggrin.gif
*

It will be hard for anyone from the midfield to mark Kaka since he plays so high up the pitch in the 4-3-2-1 formation. This will definately create space for Pirlo and Seedorf to work in, and with Rino and Ambro hopefully getting the upper hand in the physical battle we'll be able to take control of the midfield.

I could even see Rafa starting with a 3-1-4-2 formation or a 4-1-4-1 formation. Anything to try to stifle us out

-------------Mascherano------------
Gerrard--Alonso--Sissoko--Kewell

The midfield could look something like that, then with either 1 upfront and 4 in defence or 2 upfront and 3 in defence

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:32 PM

I'm not sure who their wide players will be.

Any from Riise, Kewell, Gerrard, Pennant & Zenden.

I think it's laughable that any of those would even worry Ambro and Rino on the physical side of things. biggrin.gif

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:38 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 07:32 PM)
I'm not sure who their wide players will be.

Any from Riise, Kewell, Gerrard, Pennant & Zenden.

I think it's laughable that any of those would even worry Ambro and Rino on the physical side of things.  biggrin.gif
*

I think Riise will definately play at the back. And as I said before, I am fully expecting Kewell to start

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:38 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 15 2007, 07:38 PM)
I think Riise will definately play at the back. And as I said before, I am fully expecting Kewell to start
*


Kewell vs Gattuso.

I think my dog even knows who'll win that battle. tongue.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 08:40 PM

-------------Crouch---Kuyt----------------
--Kewell--Alonso-Mascherano--Gerrard-
--Riise----Agger----Carragher---Finnan-
------------------Reina---------------------

My only doubt is about Kewell. If Kewell doesn't play, Riise will be their LW and Arbeloa their LB.

(I'm looking at Benitez usual style, and those players who were rested on the last matches.)

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:40 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 07:38 PM)
Kewell vs Gattuso.

I think my dog even knows who'll win that battle.  tongue.gif
*

Gattuso wwill definately be on Gerrard and probably try to get in the faces of Mascherano and Sissoko as much as he can to hopefully relieve Kaka of them for a bit

Posted by: dst May 15 2007, 08:41 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 10:25 PM)
But I think there's no doubt we need the Nesta/Paolo partnership in the middle.
*

The mere presence of him on the field wins games on its own! sleep.gif

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 08:41 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 15 2007, 08:40 PM)
Gattuso wwill definately be on Gerrard and probably try to get in the faces of Mascherano and Sissoko as much as he can to hopefully relieve Kaka of them for a bit
*

Sissoko is not going to be on the first 11. Mascherano is in better shape/form.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 15 2007, 08:47 PM

If Porty's line-up is correct, the main battles could be:

Inzaghi vs Carragher & Agger: I don't like our chances in this one, but then again therer's not many people who get the better of Carragher.

Kaka' & Seedorf vs Alonso & Mascherano: I personally don't see either of these 2 as player with much skill, typical Liverpool players who 'just do their job' I'd certainly pick our 2 guys of them.

Ambrosini vs Gerrard: Could be the most important bettle on the night, as good as Stevie G is I rate Ambro very highly, he'll get the job done.

Gattuso vs Kewell: Gattuso isn't going to get beaten by him, I don't see him as that much of a threat, especially if they go behind, he'll just drop his head and give up.

Nesta & Maldini vs Kuyt & Crouch: They're both superb in the air, which is what worries me. If we can keep the ball on the ground, Nesta & Paolo should be able to deal with it.

Posted by: han2503 May 15 2007, 08:52 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 15 2007, 07:41 PM)
Sissoko is not going to be on the first 11. Mascherano is in better shape/form.
*

Don't be so sure. I think there is a chance it could happen. And it isn't that slim

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 09:09 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 15 2007, 08:47 PM)
Nesta & Maldini vs Kuyt & Crouch: They're both superb in the air, which is what worries me. If we can keep the ball on the ground, Nesta & Paolo should be able to deal with it.
*

I won't be surprise if Benitez says "Let it fly. Just bomb some air-balls to Crouch". And that worries me a lot.

We conceeded 34299904239042904239042390 goals in air-balls this year.

Posted by: mishie May 15 2007, 09:55 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 15 2007, 08:09 PM)
I won't be surprise if Benitez says "Let it fly. Just bomb some air-balls to Crouch". And that worries me a lot.

We conceeded 34299904239042904239042390 goals in air-balls this year.
*

wow and were still 4th!! how many have we scored this season!! biggrin.gif biggrin.gif

Posted by: m1ke May 15 2007, 09:55 PM

QUOTE
There will be a new, yet also time-honoured and traditional, look to the trophy ceremonies at UEFA's big two club showcases - the UEFA Cup final in Glasgow on Wednesday and the UEFA Champions League final in Athens on 23 May. In this article, UEFA President Michel Platini explains why the winning teams will climb the steps to receive the respective trophies at the end of each final.

"It was my wish that, in Glasgow on 16 May and in Athens a week later, a noble European club competition tradition should be revived. The same tradition will also return at the UEFA EURO 2008â„¢ final in Vienna next year.

"The winners will climb steps to receive the trophy amid the crowd of fans, the football people, those who are loyal to the game. Football is being restored to its rightful place - its heroes are being returned to the crowd, the winners are united with the fans in the grandstand, rather than the fans merely watching events on the big screen. Following the victory, the trophy, and the emotion.

Posted by: redbabies May 15 2007, 10:13 PM

Maldini starts Final countdown

Milan captain Paolo Maldini will only feature in the Champions League Final against Liverpool on May 23 if he is 100 per cent fit.

The defender is keen to appear in his 29th professional Final, but he is a doubt for the game because of a persistent knee problem.

“After the game against Catania on Sunday my knee swelled up, but that was expected,” said Maldini to Milan Channel.

“I have to follow a personalised training programme this week, but I know I can be fit for the game against Liverpool,” continued the 38-year-old.

“However, I will only play if I am 100 per cent fit. Otherwise I will have no problems in giving my place to somebody else.”

Maldini has appeared in four Finals crowning Milan as European champions in 1989, 1990, 1994 and 2003 and is looking forward to writing yet another page in the club’s history.

“I always believed we could reach the Final this season and so did the Coach,” explained the Rossonero who is in his 23rd season at the San Siro.

“Now we have the chance to write history. The Istanbul defeat in 2005 still hurts, but I am sure Liverpool know they will never win a match like that again,” he added.

“Compared to our last two Finals in Manchester and Istanbul we are in much better shape this time around.

“This is the joy and honour of playing for Milan, to always be able to compete at the highest level and have the possibility of winning important trophies.

“My personal balance says that I have won four Finals and lost three, there is no way I want to even things out!”

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 10:26 PM

Kaladze, I'm gonna make the life easy to you:

QUOTE
In this final you'll face a world-class team called Liverpool (Yes... those in Red, as you like).



I made a list of the players YOU MUST KEEP AN EYE (both eyes, better) ON:




His name is Riise, comes from Norway and if you see him coming from the left... shout at Oddo.  rolleyes.gif Never let him cross or try to shoot.



An Aussie, nice winger, watch out if he plays.



Very... very dangerous foward. This is the #1 rival for you. You simply can't give him space. If you see you can't get him raise your hand and ask for offside.



The tallest guy on the field. Pay attention to him when you see Riise or Kewell (info: above) crossing.



Gerrard. Their heart. Long-shot, passes... almost everything.



Their "Pirlo". Not as physical as Gerrard but with more tecnique.



No! This is not your opponent. This is the reason why I'm doing this. The most wanted trophy worldwide @soccer - clubs.


I'm only doing this because I CARE. wink.gif cool.gif
Forza ragazzi. Forza Kaladze!

Posted by: Portikins May 15 2007, 10:46 PM

http://athens.acmilan.com/index.aspx?lang=eng

Special mini-web from our official website. You must login in the top-right (acmilan.com username) to watch the videos. smile.gif

Posted by: m1ke May 16 2007, 12:26 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 15 2007, 09:46 PM)
http://athens.acmilan.com/index.aspx?lang=eng

Special mini-web from our official website. You must login in the top-right (acmilan.com username) to watch the videos.  smile.gif
*

The Kaka video on there is worth a watch.

Posted by: arivanjj May 16 2007, 12:51 AM

QUOTE (m1ke @ May 16 2007, 09:26 AM)
The Kaka video on there is worth a watch.
*

definitely, 10 wonderful goals

FORZA KAKA king.gif

Posted by: dst May 16 2007, 12:59 AM

@m1ke's previous post (the one with the Platini quotes)!!!

Yesssssssss!!!! devil.gif

Just like in 1994... cool.gif

Porty, you think Paolo won't make it? Or is this just in case...

Anyhow, forza Milan, forza ragazzi!!!!!!!!!! devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: bigmacmtl May 16 2007, 02:17 AM

QUOTE (andi_sant @ May 2 2007, 06:10 PM)
It's time for revenge  devil.gif

My prediction:

Milan 3-0 Liverpool (Kaka hattrick)  devilsmiley.gif

If we can beat MU, why can't we beat the other English team?  biggrin.gif

FORZA MILAN
*

they said the same about man u. "if we beat roma 7-1, and roma is easily the better team between them (which was the conclusion after the 4 games we played against them), we can easily beat them" that is what they said... we we're heavy favs 2 years ago... i dunno i say it's 50-50. we may have revenge on our mind but they want to proove it wasnt a fluke and this is pretty much the only trophy they can win cuz prem isnt gonna happen (they arent consistent enough).

Posted by: shevchenko_007 May 16 2007, 06:28 AM

I think it is absolutely ridiculous to even consider Kewell for a spot in the team.
He has been out for 10 MONTHS! And he has played one match since returning, how is he possibly going to have enough match fitness to play the biggest game of the year?
I really hope he does play so their left side will be totally dominated by gattuso and oddo and if oddo has his crossing boots on then we will see some great goals.

Posted by: arivanjj May 16 2007, 06:33 AM

QUOTE (shevchenko_007 @ May 16 2007, 03:28 PM)
I think it is absolutely ridiculous to even consider Kewell for a spot in the team.
He has been out for 10 MONTHS! And he has played one match since returning, how is he possibly going to have enough match fitness to play the biggest game of the year?
I really hope he does play so their left side will be totally dominated by gattuso and oddo and if oddo has his crossing boots on then we will see some great goals.
*

i agree with you... he won't be starting but he'll certainly come on sometime in the match.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 16 2007, 10:30 AM

Liverfool ... This Time You WILL Walk Alone ! devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 16 2007, 11:11 AM

HAHAHAHA

laugh.gif laugh.gif

good one!

Posted by: Portikins May 16 2007, 12:13 PM

QUOTE (shevchenko_007 @ May 16 2007, 06:28 AM)
I think it is absolutely ridiculous to even consider Kewell for a spot in the team.
He has been out for 10 MONTHS! And he has played one match since returning, how is he possibly going to have enough match fitness to play the biggest game of the year?
I really hope he does play so their left side will be totally dominated by gattuso and oddo and if oddo has his crossing boots on then we will see some great goals.
*

We'll see. Kewell was their best player on the last match of the EPL. He's definately their best LW and as Gerrard will probably be on the right... they might need a more ofensive player on the left.

Posted by: Darunia May 16 2007, 06:19 PM

Kewell started last time and got injured early... he really can't stay healthy. I see him starting a half or getting subbed in late.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 16 2007, 07:29 PM

Zenden is there only other serious option on the left as I don't see Riise playing anywhere but Left Back.

And in all fairness, Zenden is not quite good enough to play such a huge game, not when he has to go head-to-head with Rino.

It has to be Kewell.

Posted by: Portikins May 16 2007, 07:51 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 16 2007, 07:29 PM)
Zenden is there only other serious option on the left as I don't see Riise playing anywhere but Left Back.

And in all fairness, Zenden is not quite good enough to play such a huge game, not when he has to go head-to-head with Rino.

It has to be Kewell.
*

Zenden just played on the left because Finnan was not 100% (so Arbeloa went to the right and Riise to LB). Against Barcelona in Camp Nou they played a very solid match with:

Riise---------X--------Y-------Z----
--------------------------------------
Arbeloa-Agger-Carragher-Finnan

I won't be surprised if play like this...

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 16 2007, 07:53 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 16 2007, 06:51 PM)
Zenden just played on the left because Finnan was not 100% (so Arbeloa went to the right and Riise to LB). Against Barcelona in Camp Nou they played a very solid match with:

Riise---------X--------Y-------Z----
--------------------------------------
Arbeloa-Agger-Carragher-Finnan

I won't be surprised if play like this...
*


They looked pretty good against Barca 'cause they only have 1 player defending at all times, this gave Liverpool chances. I don't see them putting Riise in a more advanced role against us, not as much space for him to exploit.

I don't expect Arbeloa to start either, he's only had a dozen games or so this season, surely no-one can start in a CL final with so little amount of football?

Posted by: misha May 16 2007, 10:37 PM

Ancelotti can't wait to meet 'Pool

Carlo Ancelotti believes Milan are in a completely different state of mind to how they approached the 2005 Champions League Final with Liverpool.

“The basic structure of the team is the same, but the big difference is that in 2005 we arrived at the Final squeezed dry by a brutal season, while now the side is in great physical shape,” said the Coach.

“Above all the positive aspect of our approach to this Final is in our psychological focus. The team grew so much in confidence and belief after the quarter-final with Bayern Munich and we are convinced we can repeat the semi-final performance against Manchester United.”

The Rossoneri were famously leading 3-0 in Istanbul before conceding three goals in six minutes and losing the trophy on penalties, but have the opportunity for an historic rematch.

“We are not thinking about penalties now, but if we do end up there again, we’ll try to take them better than we did in Istanbul…”

Above all, it is a Final that comes after going through the preliminary round due to Calciopoli.

“In terms of mentality let us say that in 2005 reaching the Final was a normal objective, but the way this season has gone it is extraordinary. I am proud that despite the difficulties Milan have once again been able to challenge for the trophy,” he told the official club website.

“This has been a story with a happy ending. When everything seemed to be going wrong, all of a sudden there was respite. Aside from how the Final goes, this team has done something very important for modern football, where there is always the search for scapegoats and alibis. We all focused on fixing our own problems together.”

The Rossoneri have more than proved their pedigree in the Champions League, as this is their third Final in five years.

“In games like these, experience is important to deal with the run-up. The fact we have so many players accustomed to that atmosphere and tension means we get there with the right attitude.

“Tradition counts for a great deal and the philosophy of this club has always been that the Champions League is the main objective.”

Rafa Benitez is in his second European Cup Final in three seasons, so this will be an intriguing battle of two very different tactical approaches.

“He is a great Coach who evidently focuses on organisation and discipline. I think he is extremely precise in his work,” said Ancelotti.

“Milan are a very Italian side in its way of preparing for matches, concentration, aggression and then has the input of foreign talent like Kaka and Clarence Seedorf. Liverpool don’t seem to have the DNA of an English club, they are far more Latino in their play and that comes from the mentality of their Coach.

“I am really enjoying this Press Conference and can’t wait for Tuesday’s UEFA chat,” grinned the experienced boss.

“I remember in Istanbul thinking ‘It’s great being here, I wonder if I’ll get here again?’ I am once more and am happy about that. I didn’t expect to meet Benitez again, but he’s here too!”

Posted by: Portikins May 16 2007, 10:39 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 16 2007, 07:53 PM)
I don't expect Arbeloa to start either, he's only had a dozen games or so this season, surely no-one can start in a CL final with so little amount of football?
*

His first match was vs. Messi. rolleyes.gif And he did a brilliant job. Messi was nothing on that match.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 16 2007, 10:44 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 16 2007, 09:39 PM)
His first match was vs. Messi.  rolleyes.gif And he did a brilliant job. Messi was nothing on that match.
*


You're right there.. maybe he's played so little 'cause he's only used in the CL or something then?

Posted by: Portikins May 16 2007, 10:53 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 16 2007, 10:44 PM)
You're right there.. maybe he's played so little 'cause he's only used in the CL or something then?
*

Because Aurelio and Luis Garcia are out (and Kewell were too)... so Riise must play on the LW and Arbeloa as LB.

Now, with Kewell back... I'd say Riise will go to LB and Kewell as LW.

But I might be wrong.

Posted by: redbabies May 16 2007, 11:44 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 16 2007, 10:39 PM)
His first match was vs. Messi.  rolleyes.gif And he did a brilliant job. Messi was nothing on that match.
*


maybe he was used in match coz he had experince against spanish teams from his spell at Deportivo.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 17 2007, 12:25 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 16 2007, 09:53 PM)
They looked pretty good against Barca 'cause they only have 1 player defending at all times, this gave Liverpool chances. I don't see them putting Riise in a more advanced role against us, not as much space for him to exploit.

I don't expect Arbeloa to start either, he's only had a dozen games or so this season, surely no-one can start in a CL final with so little amount of football?
*


Barca isn't Milan.

The hot favorites to win the CL07 were Manchester United. And we disected them into shreds at the San Siro. Still I do give Liver credit for winning with conviction against Barca, but I was disappointed at Barca for not proving themselves worthy of reaching the final, as AC Milan did.

I can bet you one thing, that Liverpool, when they watch the CL05 final, the only part they can take comfort from is the 6 minutes of madness and confusion (from our part) and the penalties. Apart from that, they know they are screwed and the fact that they know Milan filled with this anger from Inter and the calciopoli, then a chance to take back the trophy that was rightfully Milans' ?? I just hope Gerrard doesn't do a CR in front of the whole world. wink.gif

Posted by: bigmacmtl May 17 2007, 01:05 AM

aomost had a heart attack today, i have to do a exam rewrite and teacher schedules it for wednesday 2:30...... but i called her later on to arrange to do it tomorrow.... no way in hell would i miss that game NOT ONE MINUTE!!! FORZA MILAANNNN!!!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 17 2007, 11:19 AM

QUOTE
Sacchi Tips Milan For Champions League Triumph

The former Rossoneri's coach is confident that Milan will ultimately prevail on Liverpool, despite the excellent players present in the English team.


During a football discussion organized by the University of Bologna, Arrigo Sacchi gave his opinion and views on the forthcoming Champions League final, which sees his former team Milan face Liverpool in the Champions final, as the Rossoneri will try to avenge the previous final. king.gif

"Two great coaches and two great teams are in the final. However, I think that Milan is slightly favourite over Liverpool, because they have more quality," he declared.

Sacchi won the Champions League twice with Milan (in 1989 and 1990) apart from winning many other major domestic and international honours with the Rossoneri before trying his luck with the Italian national side which ended up losing the 1994 World Cup final in the penalty shootout against Brazil.

In his career, he also coached Parma (1985-87, 2001) and Atletico Madrid (1998-1999) before giving up on coaching for the excessive stress caused to him.


Goal

Posted by: han2503 May 17 2007, 02:37 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 16 2007, 09:39 PM)
His first match was vs. Messi.  rolleyes.gif And he did a brilliant job. Messi was nothing on that match.
*

I think Messi was out injured for quite some time before that and neither him, Ronaldinho or Eto'o where playing particularly well during that time.

QUOTE (Porty @ May 16 2007, 09:53 PM)
Because Aurelio and Luis Garcia are out (and Kewell were too)... so Riise must play on the LW and Arbeloa as LB.

Now, with Kewell back... I'd say Riise will go to LB and Kewell as LW.

But I might be wrong.
*

I personally think that this will be it. I'm 95% sure in fact, if not Kewell then definately Zenden in the LW position

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 16 2007, 11:25 PM)
Barca isn't Milan.

The hot favorites to win the CL07 were Manchester United. And we disected them into shreds at the San Siro. Still I do give Liver credit for winning with conviction against Barca, but I was disappointed at Barca for not proving themselves worthy of reaching the final, as AC Milan did.

I can bet you one thing, that Liverpool, when they watch the CL05 final, the only part they can take comfort from is the 6 minutes of madness and confusion (from our part) and the penalties. Apart from that, they know they are screwed and the fact that they know Milan filled with this anger from Inter and the calciopoli, then a chance to take back the trophy that was rightfully Milans' ?? I just hope Gerrard doesn't do a CR in front of the whole world. wink.gif
*


Actually Chelsea and Barca where the hot favs to win it this season, Man U only became favourites after that fluke of a win against Roma.

Imo Liverpool now are much tougher then they where in 05 and it has to be said that we have a much more weaker attack then we had in 05. Also I doubt that they will open up like they did to us in 05.

I think the best way to kill off Liverpool is to hit them with lightning fast counters at every possible moment. Their attack isn't good enough to put us under too much pressure but when they lose the ball we have the intelligent enough players to exploit whatever space they give to us.

If we try to keep possetion and try to score while pressing ourselves we might get caught on the counter so best way is to try and bait them to come and attack us and hit them hard on counters.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 17 2007, 03:17 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 17 2007, 04:37 PM)
Actually Chelsea and Barca where the hot favs to win it this season, Man U only became favourites after that fluke of a win against Roma.

Imo Liverpool now are much tougher then they where in 05 and it has to be said that we have a much more weaker attack then we had in 05. Also I doubt that they will open up like they did to us in 05.

I think the best way to kill off Liverpool is to hit them with lightning fast counters at every possible moment. Their attack isn't good enough to put us under too much pressure but when they lose the ball we have the intelligent enough players to exploit whatever space they give to us.

If we try to keep possetion and try to score while pressing ourselves we might get caught on the counter so best way is to try and bait them to come and attack us and hit them hard on counters.
*


Well Chelsea were favorites too ... But, United had a spectacular season. While Chelsea had so many problems with their formation, United had everything spot on. Barca ?? Well if u can recall after our Manchester triumph in 03, we were royaly kicked out by Deportivo; therefore I find a correlation there. Still, Barca wasn't at it's full strength, and Barca never showed up to the game, TBH. I was dissapointed in Barca for not kicking of the fools. Anyways they left that privilage to us, to take our revenge cool.gif

In any case, we beat United and we are the favorites now.

Liverfool ?? I don't really care who they play or how they play. All I know is, Milan will win this one. We are technically, tactically, physically, and mentally ready for this chance to take back what is rightfully ours. The only player from their team that would be considered a talent, is Gerrard. The rest don't match up to the standards of our technically advanced players.

We beat United at a very high tempo, something Milan doesn't do .. Milan simply doesnt play at a high tempo for more than 30 mins. They did it for almost 70 mins and brushed off United.

What do u think is in store for Liverfool wink.gif

They have a better team ?? So what ? So did United .. United had a better team than the one they had in 05, in 05 we didn't play this way, we didnt control the game like this.

This time, the whole team was compact ... Against Liverfool, I would expect an even stronger Milan.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 17 2007, 05:40 PM

I got 2 questions.

1) What is the capacity of the stadium?
2) How many tickets have officialy been sold to Milan fans?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 17 2007, 06:45 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 17 2007, 07:40 PM)
I got 2 questions.

1) What is the capacity of the stadium?
2) How many tickets have officialy been sold to Milan fans?
*


1) around 68,000, give or take.
2) No one can no till the ref blows the whistle .. But 17,000 were asigned to Liverfool and 17,000 were asigned to Milan .. The rest are through UEFA and other organizations.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 17 2007, 06:57 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 17 2007, 05:45 PM)
1) around 68,000, give or take.
2) No one can no till the ref blows the whistle .. But 17,000 were asigned to Liverfool and 17,000 were asigned to Milan .. The rest are through UEFA and other organizations.
*


So there could be only 34,000 real fans there? I can't see it having a good atmosphere at all, even Spurs get that many fans. tongue.gif

Posted by: dst May 17 2007, 10:17 PM

We will win.

Posted by: arivanjj May 17 2007, 10:31 PM

6 days to go

Posted by: Portikins May 17 2007, 10:43 PM

QUOTE (arivanjj @ May 17 2007, 10:31 PM)
6 days to go
*

Damn. It's coming. cool.gif

Next Wednesday it will be a day to be remembered. But you must be ready to accept 2 things:

-An amazing night... the 7th.
-A nightmare v2.


Be ready for both.

Posted by: dst May 17 2007, 10:52 PM

Yep, be ready for both and applaud the team whatever the result! smile.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 17 2007, 11:02 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 18 2007, 07:43 AM)
Damn. It's coming.  cool.gif

Next Wednesday it will be a day to be remembered. But you must be ready to accept 2 things:

-An amazing night... the 7th.
-A nightmare v2.


Be ready for both.
*

sleep.gif

i'm with ya

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 18 2007, 02:15 AM

QUOTE
Istanbul Defeat Not Ancelotti's Fault - Benitez

Rafa Benitez insists that it was not Ancelotti's tactical mistakes that cost Milan in Istanbul, but simply Liverpool's brilliance.


"I think Ancelotti was doing everything right in Istanbul and they were playing really well," said Benitez.

"When we started scoring goals he began to change his players which I think was the right thing to do.

"He had Serginho down the left side trying to open the game and trying to cause us problems.

"However, we were controlling things, even by playing Gerrard at right back.

"I think it's going to be a very different game this time as we both have more experience.

"We don’t need to talk about revenge and headlines. This is just another game between two top sides."

Faced with a problem of plenty, Rafa has also asked is players to earn their spots in the starting line-up for Wednesday's clash in their training camp in Spain.

"We need to look at the players in the training camp and in every training session," said the Spaniard.

"The other day people were talking about Harry Kewell. He was playing well for half an hour but we need to see whether he's fit and then decide if he can play from the start or not.

"There's a lot for me to decide yet but in training we will see.
 
"What I know at the moment is that we are focused and we will be ready.

"The players are really thinking about this game and you could see in previous games that as much as you tried to push them, their minds were already on the final.
 
"The only thing we can do now is to prepare properly for the game and approach it with confidence because it's easy to become nervous or stressed.

"If you know what to do it will be easier."


I think Benitez is under the impression that Carlo knows how Benitez plays after Istanbul.

Forz Carlo !!! devil.gif devil.gif

Take back ur cup.

Posted by: Darunia May 18 2007, 05:28 AM

Liverpool wasn't that brilliant. They just held on to penalties and made more than us, that was it.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 18 2007, 10:25 AM

Yeah, they weren' that great.

I think the only reason Rafa has said that is becuase he genuinly is a manager that's full of class.

Posted by: han2503 May 18 2007, 12:35 PM

QUOTE (arivanjj @ May 17 2007, 09:31 PM)
6 days to go
*

5 now. I'm already getting really nervous about it and sometimes cant even sleep well thinking about it.

QUOTE (Porty @ May 17 2007, 09:43 PM)
Damn. It's coming.  cool.gif

Next Wednesday it will be a day to be remembered. But you must be ready to accept 2 things:

-An amazing night... the 7th.
-A nightmare v2.


Be ready for both.
*


Definately. I'm not even preparing myself for winning. I'm only preparing for the nithmare v2, that way IF it does happen I won't be as devistated (I'll probably still be devastaded, but it helps me not get my hopes up about it)

As for Rafa's comments:

Liverpool were NOT brilliant, they where the opposite of that, we outplayed them for 114 minutes, god must have really been smiling down on them that night, since on top of that hudely ridiculous lucky 'come back' rolleyes.gif they got lucky on so many occasions with miracle saves I lost count when I was watching the game again a few months ago.

And I know Carlo made no tactical mistake, imo Milan where perfect, they showed up Liverpool for what they where that night, a totally mediocre team. Only incredible luck saved them.

It was nobodies fault but the fact that it was just Liverpool's night. When you see Sheva miss a double chance on the line then you know it's not going to be your night. Simple as that.

And the fact that Liverpool are the Germany of club football when it comes to penalties only helped them out.

Posted by: misha May 18 2007, 12:42 PM

QUOTE (han2503 @ May 18 2007, 02:35 PM)
Definately. I'm not even preparing myself for winning. I'm only preparing for the nithmare v2, that way IF it does happen I won't be as devistated (I'll probably still be devastaded, but it helps me not get my hopes up about it)
*

No matter how much you prepare yourself you still will be devastated. A lot. You just can't control it.

Posted by: han2503 May 18 2007, 12:50 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ May 18 2007, 11:42 AM)
No matter how much you prepare yourself you still will be devastated. A lot. You just can't control it.
*

Yeah I know, but the 'preparing' keeps me from getting my hopes up too high

Posted by: Portikins May 18 2007, 04:46 PM

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N155965070518-1236.htm

Zenden injuried. Damn. mad.gif

So... Arbeloa LB, Riise LW. Confirmed? rolleyes.gif
Kewell most probably benched and getting in on the 2nd half or so.

I'd prefer Zenden than Riise or 50% Kewell... obvious reasons.

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 18 2007, 08:46 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ May 18 2007, 03:46 PM)
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N155965070518-1236.htm

Zenden injuried. Damn.  mad.gif

So... Arbeloa LB, Riise LW. Confirmed?  rolleyes.gif
Kewell most probably benched and getting in on the 2nd half or so.

I'd prefer Zenden than Riise or 50% Kewell... obvious reasons.
*


To make it even better, Reina's shoulder's now fine so he's ready to go.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 May 18 2007, 09:36 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ May 18 2007, 10:46 PM)
To make it even better, Reina's shoulder's now fine so he's ready to go.
*


Good, so that the dont have any excuses when we beat them to the ground devilsmiley.gif

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 18 2007, 09:51 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ May 18 2007, 08:36 PM)
Good, so that the dont have any excuses when we beat them to the ground devilsmiley.gif
*


That's a good way to put it. wink.gif

Posted by: arivanjj May 18 2007, 11:43 PM

From Portugal With Love: Good Luck Milan - Rui Costa wub.gif

In the Champions League final against Liverpool which Milan lost in 2005, one of the Milan players who came from the bench was Manuel Rui Costa, a player the Rossoneri fans have not forgotten.

Now that Milan have the chance to exact revenge for that ill-fated final in Athens against the Reds, the Portuguese champ, now at Benfica, wanted to wish his team good luck in a letter dedicated to administrator Adriano Galliani.

"Whoever has had the luck, as I have, to be part of the Milan family does not forget and never stops feeling a part of it", Rui Costa said as reported on the Rossoneri's website.

"I understood it as I came back to Benfica, a very sentimental choice that I had decided to make the moment I left Lisbon as a kid. But Milan are a club that becomes your blood and doesn't go out anymore, so I would like to tell you, the President, to Carlo and all the lads that my heart will be with all of you in Athens.

"I am proud of what you have managed to do in this very difficult season and I know you will be able to finish it in style, with the class and courage only Milan are able to deliver in these 'special' moments! Beating Liverpool will be a small revenge for me too... Good luck from yours truly, Manuel Rui Costa."


http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=306999

Posted by: kurtsimonw May 18 2007, 11:45 PM

What a class act our Rui is. smile.gif

Hopefully the guys that play in the game will be able to get revenge for Rui and Sheva! devilsmiley.gif

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