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Posted by: misha Feb 16 2008, 08:08 PM

Posted by: dst Feb 16 2008, 08:12 PM

I love the CL kick-off time! Although I'm just moving around for an hour unable to do anything until these games begin...

Posted by: misha Feb 16 2008, 08:20 PM

Let's see if our champions league magic is going to come back. We are suffering through those Serie A nightmares so We need to see the world class Milan again

Pato is a must and of course we need Kaka to step up.

Our best line up right now IMO:

---------------------Kalac

Oddo --------Nesta--------God --------Janku

--------------------Pirlo-------------------------

-----------Rino-----------------Seedorf

--------------------Kaka

------------Pato----------------Pippo

Though I think Carlo will play with one striker and a christmas tree with Ambro.

Posted by: dst Feb 16 2008, 08:42 PM

------------Pato----------------Pippo

Though I think Carlo will play with one striker and a christmas tree with Ambro.

Posted by: Portikins Feb 16 2008, 08:58 PM

I dunno if the best thing for Milan is to be kicked out of the CL right now. Maybe to Galliani and Berlusconi finally open their eyes and realize how shite we are.

Our squad is too poor to play 2 competitions at the same time. I'd prefer to concentrate on the 4th place as we can't afford to lose that.

Prediction: 1 or 2 up for L'Arsenal.

Posted by: dst Feb 16 2008, 09:01 PM

Prediction: 1 or 2 up for L'Arsenal.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 16 2008, 09:03 PM

Though I think Carlo will play with one striker and a christmas tree with Ambro.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 16 2008, 09:13 PM

Im 99.9% sure that this will be the formation

Oddo--Nesta--Kaka/Maldini-Janku
-------Rino---Pirlo---Ambro-------
-----------Kaka--Seedorf----------
---------------Pippo-----------------

Maybe Pato if he is fit, but don't expect him to start with 2 strikers and only 1 defensive mids

Posted by: Darunia Feb 16 2008, 10:00 PM

I think you mean Kala/Maldini

Posted by: Darunia Feb 16 2008, 10:13 PM

Ugh I get so nervous before these champions league games. Forza Milan!

Posted by: dst Feb 16 2008, 10:23 PM

Ancelotti: “Seedorf will be there, I am certain, but if we do recover Pato in time then it will have to be at the last minute,” said the Coach.

So... Pato will probably not be available after all. IF this is true...

Posted by: misha Feb 16 2008, 10:33 PM

Ugh I get so nervous before these champions league games.  Forza Milan!

Ancelotti: “Seedorf will be there, I am certain, but if we do recover Pato in time then it will have to be at the last minute,” said the Coach

So... Pato will probably not be available after all. IF this is true...

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 16 2008, 10:37 PM

I think it's not true...

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 16 2008, 10:38 PM

I love that excitement before such games 
I think it's not true...

Posted by: misha Feb 16 2008, 10:38 PM

You mean mind games from Ancelotti?

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 16 2008, 10:47 PM

You mean mind games from Ancelotti?

You mean it's only Carlo's mind games?

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 16 2008, 10:50 PM

del be del rah dare!!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 16 2008, 10:55 PM

Ha ee ma har dotamoon barareyi bidim...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 16 2008, 11:32 PM

What language is that..?

I don't even recognise it!

Posted by: misha Feb 16 2008, 11:47 PM

What language is that..?

I don't even recognise it!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 16 2008, 11:54 PM

Or Farsi?

Posted by: Nova Feb 16 2008, 11:56 PM

What language is that..?

I don't even recognise it!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 12:03 AM

Persian i think

Or Farsi?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 17 2008, 12:22 AM

Persian.. like the cat?

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 17 2008, 12:22 AM

It's really good to have a compatriot here!

Posted by: Nova Feb 17 2008, 12:26 AM

Persian.. like the cat?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 17 2008, 12:31 AM

Miaaw  wasnt that an act from a stand up comedian ? forgot his name tough

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2008, 12:31 AM

Persian.. like the cat?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 17 2008, 12:37 AM

Dude!

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2008, 12:42 AM

What?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 17 2008, 12:44 AM

Nothing... it seems to be a joke... I just don't get it...

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2008, 01:27 PM

Posted by: redbabies Feb 17 2008, 02:04 PM

its good to be confident... but too much confidence might turn out to hurt us!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 02:25 PM

The Duck and the Turtle back to full training...

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 02:34 PM

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 03:52 PM

Oh my GOD! Kalac has dislocated something in his finger! he is a doubt for Arsenal now!


A.C. MILAN COMUNICATO UFFICIALE
17/02/2008

MILANO - L' A.C. Milan comunica che nel corso dell'allenamento di oggi il portiere Zeljko Kalac ha riportato una lussazione alla seconda falange del dito indice della mano destra. Le sue condizioni verranno valutate domani in attesa di capire se sarà disponibile per la partita di Londra contro l'Arsenal.


A.C. MILAN'S OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
2/17/2008

MILAN - A.C. Milan announces that during the training session of today, goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac suffered a dislocation to the phalanx of the index finger in his right hand. His conditions will be evaluated tomorrow to understand whether he will be available for London against Arsenal.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 17 2008, 03:58 PM

Ow. Not good. So if he's out that leaves...Fiori who hasn't played a full game in years and Offredi, the Primavera keeper. Offredi's supposedly pretty good, but still....

Posted by: nuh Feb 17 2008, 04:32 PM

no coment but just

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2008, 05:24 PM

He'll be alright!

Posted by: weeeow Feb 17 2008, 05:39 PM

we need to beat this paedo's team.

i suggest maldini should teach them how to play football!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 05:39 PM

He'll be alright!

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 17 2008, 05:54 PM

Ouch, i hope Kalac will be OK

Posted by: misha Feb 17 2008, 06:18 PM

I'm very confident that we gonna beat Arsenal.

But we need at least a decent keeper Hope Kalac will recover in time.

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2008, 06:32 PM

More mind games?!

Posted by: Darunia Feb 17 2008, 07:32 PM

How come Dida gets injured now...

Plz be okay Kalac

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 17 2008, 07:52 PM

If both of them are out (i hope not) then Offredi and Fiori will have the chance to make themselves heroes or villians

Posted by: weeeow Feb 17 2008, 08:06 PM

If both of them are out (i hope not) then Offredi and Fiori will have the chance to make themselves heroes or villians

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 17 2008, 10:10 PM

MY GOD! If Kalac stays out and Dida also,..we're in big trouble,..

Posted by: Bluesummers Feb 17 2008, 10:15 PM

dida pulled his back while sitting down on the grass. I think dida is out but kalac will just take some Tylenol and play.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 17 2008, 10:19 PM

we need to beat this paedo's team.

Posted by: MizNelson Feb 17 2008, 10:27 PM

Offredi is not even on our 25-man CL roster.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 11:01 PM

Are you trying to be funny or something?

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 17 2008, 11:10 PM

Offredi is not even on our 25-man CL roster.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 17 2008, 11:10 PM

Offredi is not even on our 25-man CL roster.

Posted by: weeeow Feb 17 2008, 11:58 PM

Are you trying to be funny or something?

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 12:07 AM

lol no

just stating the obvious 

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 18 2008, 12:20 AM

FORZA MILAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ENOUGH SAID !!!! draw away win at home

Posted by: misha Feb 18 2008, 12:22 AM

O.k, let's focus on the game.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 18 2008, 12:52 AM

If you're serious, you're tarded. Simple as that.
Accusing someone of being paedophile is just...it's just wrong. Wrong and extremely disrespectful.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 01:06 AM

Hey, speaking of Sagna -- does anyone know what's going on with him? He's a good player (not so sure about the blond dreads though) but is not playing 'for serious family reasons'.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 18 2008, 01:21 AM

Hey, speaking of Sagna -- does anyone know what's going on with him? He's a good player (not so sure about the blond dreads though) but is not playing 'for serious family reasons'.

Posted by: MizNelson Feb 18 2008, 02:53 AM

He is.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 18 2008, 09:00 AM

Kaka Looks Foward To "Beautiful" Game Against Arsenal


Playmaker Kaka is looking forward to a “beautiful game” when his AC Milan side clash with Arsenal in the Champions League.


The contest pits the Milanese old guard against Arsene Wenger’s young guns. Kaka, whose real name is Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, recognises that Arsenal will offer a stern test of Milan’s credentials. Nevertheless, he backs the Rossoneri to dump the English side out of the competition and add to the club’s seven European triumphs.

"People have called this tie against Arsenal a match between an ageing team and a new young, up-and-coming side,” the reigning Fifa world player of the year said. “It is a fair comparison, because the average age in the first team here in Milan is 32, but that doesn't mean we'll struggle against them. Experience counts for everything at this stage of the Champions League.”

“This is a game we can enjoy. It can be beautiful.”

Despite Milan’s determination to succeed, Kaka does not underestimate the threat posed by Wenger’s team. Arsenal enjoy a five point lead in the Premiership over closest rivals Manchester United. However, the Gunners crashed out of the English FA Cup 4 –0 last Saturday against United. Many observers believe the Gunners boss decision not to play his strongest team showed that he had given priority to the match against the 2007 Champions League winners.

"This tie against Arsenal will be open and more interesting than if Milan had been drawn against Liverpool or Chelsea, teams that play more in the traditional English style," Kaka conceded. “They play football the way we like it to see it in Brazil, with style, changing position all the time, moving the ball among themselves so quickly.

“They have won Premier League titles, they were in the Champions League final a few years ago and they have real quality."

Wednesday’s Champions League match is seen as crucial to the Milan team which has not hit its best form this season and lies 21 points behind city rivals Internazionale in Serie A. Kaka sees the Champions League game as a chance for Milan to ignite their season.

"We were inconsistent in the first half of the season," said Kaka. "But we have recovered since the turn of the year and have lost only once in Italy since then, even if the top is still a long way off.

“That means the Champions League is the most important competition we're in - win that and your names are etched down in history, far more so than if you win the domestic league. We are too far behind in Serie A, so the priority is completely to win the Champions League again."


http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=589810

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 12:40 PM

I'd read that, I looked into it but could find nothing more. I don't rate him to highly myself, or his hair. It makes him look like Predator!

Posted by: han2503 Feb 18 2008, 01:19 PM

Locke can you give us a look at what formation you think Wenger will play tommorrow, I haven't been watching Arsenal much this season so I have no idea what there usual formation is

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 01:32 PM

Locke can you give us a look at what formation you think Wenger will play tommorrow, I haven't been watching Arsenal much this season so I have no idea what there usual formation is

Posted by: dst Feb 18 2008, 01:37 PM

Difficult to say, bacause a lot of players are injured/uncertain, but I guess Gallas and Toure will take central defence, Fabregas, Hleb and Gilberto are alm,ost certain in midfield, and Bendtner and Edurdo in attack UNLESS Adebayor makes it.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 01:39 PM

Claus Bo Larsen of Denmark will referee the game (from acmilan.com's italian page).

Controcampo is saying that Milan will probably play the Christmas Tree formation (no great surprise there), with PATO starting as the striker (which is a bit of a surprise). They think Kalac will play.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 18 2008, 01:42 PM

Claus Bo Larsen of Denmark will referee the game (from acmilan.com's italian page).

Controcampo is saying that Milan will probably play the Christmas Tree formation (no great surprise there), with PATO starting as the striker (which is a bit of a surprise). They think Kalac will play.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 02:29 PM

Flamini!!???

Posted by: redbabies Feb 18 2008, 02:34 PM

Kalac
Oddo-Nesta-Kala-Janku
Gattuso-Pirlo-Ambro
Kaka-Seedorf
Pato

I'm pretty sure this will be our formation.
------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's a short analysis of mine:

For Arsenal I think Adeboyor will play as a lone striker.
Actually the only players that I'm scared are Adebayor (Nesta would need a hell of performance to stop him), and Hleb who I think Ambro will try to take care of.

Fabregas will be marked by Gattuso.

While, I'm a little bit worried for Pato, if he will be able to do anything against the class of Toure and Gallas (I rate them highly)

Another interesting duel will be Kaka vs. Flamini. But I think that if Kaka will be fit enough, he will overshadow Flamini.

Seedorf might be our secret weapon, as Rosicky might be theirs.

As far as strikers from both sides are concerned, Gila & Pippo for Milan and Bendtner & Eduardo for Arsenal: none of those 4 would be able to do anything if they play - I dont know, I just have that feeling.

Finally, a result of 1-1 wouldn't surprise me. While the return leg something like 2-1 for Milan with a dramatic ending.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 18 2008, 03:34 PM

For Arsenal I think Adeboyor will play as a lone striker.
Actually the only players that I'm scared are Adebayor (Nesta would need a hell of performance to stop him)

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 18 2008, 03:35 PM

Kalac
Oddo-Nesta-Kala-Janku
Gattuso-Pirlo-Ambro
Kaka-Seedorf
Pato

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 18 2008, 03:36 PM

I'm more worried about Kaladze making one of his usual f@ck ups

Posted by: han2503 Feb 18 2008, 03:38 PM

Godlessness will get you nowhere...

Kalac
Oddo-Nesta-Maldini-Janku
Gattuso-Pirlo-Ambro
Kaka-Seedorf
Pato

Posted by: redbabies Feb 18 2008, 03:52 PM

Godlessness will get you nowhere...

Exactly, my mind would be more at ease if we played with Paolo:

Posted by: misha Feb 18 2008, 04:04 PM

But the reality sometimes hurts  ; I dont think he'll be fit enough!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 05:14 PM

(from acmilan.com's italian page)
Call ups for the game at Emirates:

ARSENAL-MILAN: I CONVOCATI ROSSONERI
18/02/2008
MILANELLO - Sono 23 i giocatori rossoneri convocati da Carlo Ancelotti per la trasferta londinese di mercoledì sera contro l'Arsenal:
PORTIERI: Kalac, Fiori, Offredi;
DIFENSORI: Cafu, Maldini, Nesta, Kaladze, Simic, Jankulovski, Favalli, Bonera, Oddo, Serginho;
CENTROCAMPISTI: Emerson, Gattuso, Seedorf, Gourcuff, Pirlo, Ambrosini, Brocchi;
ATTACCANTI: Kakà, Gilardino, Inzaghi, Pato.

Kaka's a striker this time. No London for Paloschi, alas. Or for Dida. And, er, didn't Sergio get dropepd from the CL list?

EDIT: Good news: Pato trained with the group today. Less good news: Janku followed specific work. I'm not sure he's back at 100% from the surgery.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 18 2008, 05:40 PM

updated list

ARSENAL-MILAN: I CONVOCATI ROSSONERI
18/02/2008
MILANELLO - Sono 23 i giocatori rossoneri convocati da Carlo Ancelotti per la trasferta londinese di mercoledì sera contro l'Arsenal:
PORTIERI: Kalac, Fiori, Offredi (30);
DIFENSORI: Cafu, Maldini, Nesta, Kaladze, Simic, Jankulovski, Favalli, Bonera, Oddo;
CENTROCAMPISTI: Emerson, Gattuso, Seedorf, Gourcuff, Pirlo, Ambrosini, Brocchi;
ATTACCANTI: Kakà, Gilardino, Inzaghi, Pato.

Posted by: dst Feb 18 2008, 06:09 PM

Of course God will play... Kaladze can go **** himself!

And Janku will be there too. I really hope we will play with Pato upfront!

Posted by: aLbErTo Feb 18 2008, 06:24 PM

Pato wont start as a lone striker i think...we can expect gilardino

Posted by: Darunia Feb 18 2008, 06:30 PM

I say 70% Inzaghi starts, 20% Gilardino, 10% Pato.

Pato will def make a sub appeareance though if he doesn't start.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 07:05 PM

"Arsène Wenger has earmarked Brazilian playmaker Kaka as AC Milan’s dangerman.

The World Player of the Year has overcome injury in time for Wednesday’s Champions League clash at Emirates Stadium — a place Kaka has fond memories of. In his first appearance at the Gunners’ home, in September 2006, the 25 year-old scored a wonderful solo goal in Brazil’s 3-0 victory against Argentina.

Blessed with pace, vision and a penchant for the spectacular, Kaka is capable of changing a game in a flash. A fact Manchester United, Liverpool and Celtic found out to their cost in last season’s premier European competition.

“Kaka made the difference last year in this competition,” said Wenger on Friday. “He scored 10 goals in 11 games. He made the difference against Celtic.

“He's the guy who can dominate a situation and in 10 seconds get to the other side of the box and score a goal.

“We need to be more cautious in the centre than we usually are. He's especially dangerous at counter-attacking. I don't know if I'll use Gilberto for him.

“My main worry is to get 11 fit players for the Milan game.”


Arsenal.com.

I so hope Flamini is fit for the game...Gilberto won't stand a chance against Kaka.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 07:18 PM

Maybe I'm nuts, but I think the real key to stopping Milan is to keep Pirlo shackled more than Kaka.

Posted by: nuh Feb 18 2008, 07:19 PM

sagna's brother died to bad for him he is a gd player sagna

Posted by: dst Feb 18 2008, 07:27 PM

Maybe I'm nuts, but I think the real key to stopping Milan is to keep Pirlo shackled more than Kaka.

sagna's brother died to bad for him he is a gd player sagna

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 07:27 PM

sagna's brother died to bad for him he is a gd player sagna

Posted by: misha Feb 18 2008, 07:39 PM

WHAT???
Do you have a link or anything, please...?

Posted by: nuh Feb 18 2008, 07:41 PM

no my brother saw it and he told me that today

thanx mishale

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 07:45 PM

RIP. Poor Sagna.

For what it's worth (not sure of reliability), goal.com is reporting that Rosicky is OUT of the game because he hasn't yet recovered from his knee injury.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 18 2008, 08:35 PM

I expect Arsenal to run a 4-5-1

Lehmann
Toure-Senderos-Gallas-Clichy
Eboue-Cesc-Flamini-Eduardo
Hleb
Adebayor

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 18 2008, 08:44 PM

I expect Arsenal to run a 4-5-1

Lehmann
Toure-Senderos-Gallas-Clichy
Eboue-Cesc-Flamini-EduardoHleb
Adebayor

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 18 2008, 09:01 PM

Kaka's a striker this time. No London for Paloschi, alas. Or for Dida. And, er, didn't Sergio get dropepd from the CL list?

Posted by: bigmacmtl Feb 18 2008, 09:10 PM

i expect arsenal to play a 5 man midfield, with flamini as a holding role. eduoardo as the lone man if adebayor doesnt make it.

maybe arsene will play with two but only if he has adebayor available.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 18 2008, 09:29 PM

Pato wont start as a lone striker i think...we can expect gilardino

Posted by: redbabies Feb 18 2008, 09:45 PM

first of all I'm very sorry for Sagna (at first I was happy that he'll miss it, but I thought for different reasons not for his brothers death... )

i expect arsenal to play a 5 man midfield, with flamini as a holding role. eduoardo as the lone man if adebayor doesnt make it.

maybe arsene will play with two but only if he has adebayor available.

Gila as a lone striker in a CL game = completely useless.

He hasn't managed to score against smaller teams in the CL. his goalscoring record in that competition is nothing but a shame! how can we expect him to score against Arsenal?! that won't ever happen!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 18 2008, 11:48 PM

Oh dear.

Here's the title of Controcampo's most recent Milan article: 'Gilardino titolare contro l'Arsenal' [Gilardino starter against Arsenal].

Is Carletto going for a draw? Gilardino's European form is...not terribly good. I liked the earlier story that had Pato starting.

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 12:19 AM

I would not mind Gila.

Posted by: misha Feb 19 2008, 12:26 AM

I would not mind Gila.

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 12:32 AM

I'm sure Wenger would agree with you.

Posted by: misha Feb 19 2008, 12:43 AM

Probably yes. I hope he makes him regret it though. Pato would be the best option of course but I think Gila would do very well.

Posted by: Nova Feb 19 2008, 01:40 AM

Gilardino ... Oh wonderfull , 90 minutes waiting for the ball to drop in front of his feet. We might as wel play with 10 men and no striker at all , it wont make a difference. but hey , we need someone who can keep the defenders busy ...

I just hope Pato can play , 20 minutes is enough for him to decide a game.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 19 2008, 04:41 AM

I believe in all of our strikers... even Gilardino. I just hope Gattuso can avoid a yellow and be available for the 2nd leg.

Posted by: MizNelson Feb 19 2008, 04:50 AM

Oh dear.

Here's the title of Controcampo's most recent Milan article: 'Gilardino titolare contro l'Arsenal' [Gilardino starter against Arsenal].

Is Carletto going for a draw? Gilardino's European form is...not terribly good. I liked the earlier story that had Pato starting.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 19 2008, 04:52 AM

So any of our English friends going to the game?

Due to popular demand...I made use of a top secret array of networked communication satellites...to track down the elusive and sorely missed R7.Well actually I used a cell phone, but it sounds cooler when I say it like I did. He's doing well- as well as multi millionaires do in this age of recession.

So anyway the big news...the lad is in London. He got there yesterday, and he's going to the game. Emirates had a special package going, whereby he gets accomodation at the hotel (Cumberland Hotel in London...anyone livin close by?), and tickets with the tifosi to the game. All for the rather reasonable price of 800 Euros.

He says there are quite a few Italians scattered everywhere. The general outlook in London is that the the Gunners shall win. Let their faith shield them!!

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 19 2008, 05:57 AM

So any of our English friends going to the game?

Due to popular demand...I made use of a top secret array of networked communication satellites...to track down the elusive and sorely missed R7.Well actually I used a cell phone, but it sounds cooler when I say it like I did. He's doing well- as well as multi millionaires do in this age of recession.

So anyway the big news...the lad is in London. He got there yesterday, and he's going to the game. Emirates had a special package going, whereby he gets accomodation at the hotel (Cumberland Hotel in London...anyone livin close by?), and tickets with the tifosi to the game. All for the rather reasonable price of 800 Euros. 

He says there are quite a few Italians scattered everywhere. The general outlook in London is that the the Gunners shall win. Let their faith shield them!!

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 19 2008, 09:23 AM

can't wait its showing on ART Sport 4 yepe

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 19 2008, 09:58 AM

Gattuso is one booking away from suspension and we seriously can't afford to lose him for the second leg. call me nuts but I wouldn't mind seeing Emerson/Brocchi ahead of him tomorrow night...

So any of our English friends going to the game?

Due to popular demand...I made use of a top secret array of networked communication satellites...to track down the elusive and sorely missed R7.Well actually I used a cell phone, but it sounds cooler when I say it like I did. He's doing well- as well as multi millionaires do in this age of recession.

So anyway the big news...the lad is in London. He got there yesterday, and he's going to the game. Emirates had a special package going, whereby he gets accomodation at the hotel (Cumberland Hotel in London...anyone livin close by?), and tickets with the tifosi to the game. All for the rather reasonable price of 800 Euros. 

He says there are quite a few Italians scattered everywhere. The general outlook in London is that the the Gunners shall win. Let their faith shield them!!

Posted by: m1ke Feb 19 2008, 11:22 AM

The Cumberland is a niceeee hotel! He's going to have a great time. Let's hope he brings back the win (and some ace pictures ).

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 12:09 PM

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 19 2008, 12:36 PM

okay. now i'm worried!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 19 2008, 12:39 PM

I don't really care about this match..as long as we don't lose by more than a goal margin. And scoring an away goal would be nice.

Maybe even we could get Galliani's 'Worst of all good results'...a 0-0 draw.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 19 2008, 12:47 PM

When was the last time Fiori played? I remember he had a very good performance but I can't recall when that was...

Posted by: Tennie Feb 19 2008, 12:51 PM

Fiori's last league start was against Piacenza in 2002-3; his last start period was in the Coppa against Samp in 2003-4. Milan did win both games. He also played half of the exhibition earlier this year in Spain (was it against Bilbao?).

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 19 2008, 12:57 PM

Fiori's last league start was against Piacenza in 2002-3; his last start period was in the Coppa against Samp in 2003-4. Milan did win both games. He also played half of the exhibition earlier this year in Spain (was it against Bilbao?).

Posted by: Minami Feb 19 2008, 01:24 PM

I'm really scared if Kalac doesn't get well till tomorrow evening!!

I was happy that Dida was injured but now it would have been better if he could play...

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 02:46 PM

I don't really care about this match..as long as we don't lose by more than a goal margin. And scoring an away goal would be nice.

Fiori's last league start was against Piacenza in 2002-3; his last start period was in the Coppa against Samp in 2003-4. Milan did win both games. He also played half of the exhibition earlier this year in Spain (was it against Bilbao?).

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 19 2008, 03:05 PM

If it's going to be Lehmann and Fiori, I really want to bet on who's going to do the first mistake!!

When was the last time Fiori played? I remember he had a very good performance but I can't recall when that was...

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 03:18 PM

   

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 19 2008, 03:21 PM

Kaka admires Arsenal
Milan ace Kaka thinks that their Champions League opponents Arsenal play the most beautiful brand of football in England. The Brazilian claims that he will enjoy playing against the Gunners, who he feels are more entertaining to watch than Manchester United and less direct than Liverpool or Chelsea. “Arsenal play football the way we like to see it in Brazil,” said the Rossoneri midfielder. “They play with style, changing position, moving the ball quickly. If you say Arsenal, that’s what we think of. It is different to the normal English style. Manchester United are similar but Liverpool are very English, direct and more tactical with the defence closing down quickly. This tie against Arsenal will be more open and interesting than one against Liverpool or Chelsea. This is a game we can enjoy. It can be beautiful.”

From Channel 4

Link http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/angloangle.html

Posted by: redbabies Feb 19 2008, 03:35 PM

Posted by: m1ke Feb 19 2008, 03:42 PM

At the end of the day, Fiori is still a professional goalkeeper. Like Carlo said, if a team is playing well, the keeper should be fairly redundant.

If Fiori plays, I think he'll suprise a few people.

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 19 2008, 03:46 PM

From AC MILAN.COM

THE TEAM IS IN LONDON
2/19/2008
LONDON - The Rossoneri's formation has just landed at the airport of Luton. The sky is gray and the temperature is cold.

sounds depressing

Posted by: Tennie Feb 19 2008, 03:51 PM

(Of course it's depressing. It's Luton!)

I think Fiori may surprise people too. In a good way.

I'm quietly confident about this one. We've got everyone back (but the keepers) and people seem to generally be in form.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 19 2008, 03:56 PM

Cesc: to beat Kaka would be fab

http://www.goal.com/en/articolo.aspx?contenutoid=590868


I think he'll regret his words in just two week's time.

From AC MILAN.COM

THE TEAM IS IN LONDON
2/19/2008
LONDON - The Rossoneri's formation has just landed at the airport of Luton. The sky is gray and the temperature is cold. 

sounds depressing

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 19 2008, 04:27 PM

Debate: Arsenal & Milan - Battle Of The Bad Keepers


The tie of the round for the Champions League last 16 is undoubtedly Arsenal against AC Milan. Carlo Garganese looks at some of the key battles that will take place…





1) Young Against Old

The majority of the English media believes that Arsenal will be too fast, too powerful, and too fit for the ageing legs of Milan. This prediction may prove to be correct, and there is no doubt that on a physical plane Arsenal have a clear advantage over Milan.

Technically The Gunners are as good as anyone in Europe, and of course their five-point lead at the top of the Premiership is proof of just how outstanding they have been this season.

However it is completely foolish to write off Milan just because nine of their probable line-up tomorrow will be over the age of 30. The Rossoneri have supposedly been “too old” for a good five years now, yet in these five years they have reached three Champions League finals (winning two), one semi-final and a quarter-final.

One cannot under-estimate just how important experience is in big European knockout games.

"Milan are not in the best condition, but no one is at the moment, neither in Italy nor in Europe,” said Rossoneri boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"However, these matches don't come down to fitness, but to prudence and experience. We feel like experts in this sense and are used to these types of games."

This could be the key. Arsenal’s best hope is probably to start the tie well. If they were to fall behind early tomorrow night their inexperience may tell.

The stage is set – will it be the explosive youngsters of Arsenal who pull through, or the cunning, wily old-heads of Milan?

2) Fabregas Vs Gattuso

Cesc Fabregas really is a little genius. He is to Arsenal what Andrea Pirlo is to Milan. The heartbeat and playmaker of the side, he will have to be at his best if The Gunners are to topple the European Champions. Two years ago he ripped Juventus apart during the 2-0 first leg quarter final win at Highbury, scoring the first and embarrassing Patrick Vieira in the centre of midfield.

Milan’s bulldog Gennaro Gattuso will be handed the task of stopping Arsenal’s heartbeat. The 30-year-old has not been on top form this season, yet he has been much improved since the New Year despite a recent injury. Gattuso relishes matches against English opposition and he completely marked Cristiano Ronaldo out of both legs of last year’s semi-final against Manchester United. Fabregas is more cunning than Ronaldo and will be harder to stop but if Gattuso manages to, this could have a huge bearing on the outcome of the tie.

3) Kaka Vs Flamini

The European and World Footballer of the Year, Kaka, always reserves his best form for big knockout games. Last season he proved the difference against both Celtic and Manchester United, and he will be looking to continue his impressive record against British teams. Kaka is so important to Milan because he is the one player who provides that injection of pace to what is (excluding Alexandre Pato) a rather slow-tempo Milan team.

Matthieu Flamini has been described by some, including his own manager Arsene Wenger, as “Arsenal’s Gattuso”. Flamini’s intensity and spirit are qualities that the Italian possesses. However the most important requirement in stopping Kaka is tactical intelligence. The Brazilian has often ripped apart those who try to get stuck in against him. The players he has struggled against are the likes of Esteban Cambiasso and Javier Mascherano, who use their cunning and shrewdness to close up the space on the field.

4) Adebayor Vs Nesta

With 19 goals in the Premiership, Emmanuel Adebayor has been on absolute fire this season. The forward really has a lethal set of weapons at his disposal – fast, strong, skilful, and brilliant in the air. Adebayor, who has failed to score in the Champions League this season, will undoubtedly pose Arsenal’s biggest goalscoring threat.

If there is one player in world football who is best equipped to stop Adebayor it is Alessandro Nesta. Fast approaching his 32nd birthday, Nesta is still world-class, and in fact is arguably the best centre-back in world football at the moment. The ex-Lazio man is one of these players who gets better, the better the opposition he is up against. Against the smaller teams, Nesta’s concentration can be a problem and he is prone to mistakes. Against world-class attackers he is almost always perfect. In December in the Milan derby he played Zlatan Ibrahimovic off the pitch.

5) Lehmann Vs Fiori

One position on the field that certainly could influence the outcome of this tie is in goal. Jens Lehmann is still regarded as something of a laughing stock in Milan after a disastrous spell at the club in 1998/99. In one of his games for the Rossoneri he was so poor that he was substituted before half-time by Coach Alberto Zaccheroni. Lehmann may have improved since then but you always feel there is a mistake in him somewhere.

As for Milan’s goalkeeper, well not too much is known about him as he hasn’t played a game of football for four years. With Nelson Dida injured, and Zeljko Kalac also likely to miss out due to a dislocated finger, 38-year-old third-choice shot-stopper Valerio Fiori is set to make his Champions League debut. Fiori has not played for the Rossoneri since the 2003/04 season, and has played just two matches in eight years.

What are your views on this topic? Who will come out on top - the young of Arsenal or the experience of Milan? Who will win the personal battles? Could the rather shaky-looking goalkeepers play an important role? Goal.com wants to know what YOU think.


Carlo Garganese

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 04:37 PM

I think he'll regret his words in just two week's time. 

Posted by: dst Feb 19 2008, 04:47 PM

It does not matter than Milan have a high age average cause we only fight on one front. If we had been competitive in Serie A since the beginning of the season then it would have taken its toll on our players but since we've become a one-competition team (...) I don't think age matters...

Posted by: Portikins Feb 19 2008, 06:15 PM

2 official matches in 8 years....what a legend!

Posted by: bigmacmtl Feb 19 2008, 06:28 PM

He says there are quite a few Italians scattered everywhere. The general outlook in London is that the the Gunners shall win. Let their faith shield them!!

Posted by: bigmacmtl Feb 19 2008, 06:36 PM

anyways excited for the game. we won it last year so i wont be terribly disappointed if we get knocked out now.

as long as man u, inter, real, liverpool dont win it i'll be happy

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 19 2008, 06:59 PM

as long as man u, inter, real, liverpool dont win it i'll be happy

Posted by: nuh Feb 19 2008, 07:30 PM

how did dida get injured by siting down or geting up ?

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 19 2008, 07:56 PM

Fiori is something of an unknown quantity, because of that (like m1ke said) he will surprise people

Posted by: weeeow Feb 19 2008, 08:03 PM

FORZA MILAN!!!!!!!

Posted by: Darunia Feb 19 2008, 08:19 PM

CMON MILAN!!!!!!!!! I don't care who's in goal, let's get it done!

Posted by: javierk128 Feb 19 2008, 10:59 PM

come on milan, after inter´s defeat in anfield i`m pretty happy hehehhee.... but, now we have to do our part to make the party complete

PS: i hope a kaka like in manchester last year

FORZA MILAN!!

Posted by: aLbErTo Feb 19 2008, 11:16 PM

ARSENAL-MILAN: TRIVIA
2/19/2008
MILAN - Tomorrow night, at the Emirates stadium around 20.45, Milan will go on the pitch wearing a white shirt, black pants and black socks. Meanwhile, Arsenal will play with a red shirt, white pants and white socks.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 19 2008, 11:29 PM

Ohdear. We're wearing mutant kit. That's half the lucky kit/half the third kit.

Posted by: Portikins Feb 19 2008, 11:33 PM

ARSENAL-MILAN: TRIVIA
2/19/2008
MILAN - Tomorrow night, at the Emirates stadium around 20.45, Milan will go on the pitch wearing a white shirt, black pants and black socks. Meanwhile, Arsenal will play with a red shirt, white pants and white socks.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 19 2008, 11:39 PM

Same kit we used against Manchester. I wouldn't mind that result again.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 19 2008, 11:40 PM

Same kit we used against Manchester.  I wouldn't mind that result again.

Posted by: dst Feb 20 2008, 12:28 AM

Same kit we used against Manchester.  I wouldn't mind that result again.

Posted by: sansiro1708 Feb 20 2008, 01:39 AM

its pretty obvious we'll be playing with 1 striker
pippo,gila,or pato?

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 01:43 AM

Controcampo keeps changing its mind; they've projected Gila and Pato as the single striker. It could end up being Pippo, though.

No real clue in the prematch press conference that I could find.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 01:55 AM

Who does controcampo think will be in goal? Hope it's Kalac. I think Inzaghi will start, but I wouldn't be surprised if Gila did. Pato is almost certainly a sub I think.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 02:03 AM

The latest is that Kalac's condition will be evaluated just before the game. If he's not recovered, then Fiori will play in goal. Kalac has himself said he's feeling better - he didn't play in goal during the 11 on 11 during training today (it was Fiori and Offredi), but he did do training with Vecchi, the goalkeeping coach.

The only other name really mentioned - and this was by Galliani, not Ancelotti or Maldini - was Seedorf, who apparently will start. Given that Maldini was the player to do the press conference, I imagine we'll see him starting either on the left or in the center. (The player who does the press conference almost always starts). Maldini made a point of complimenting Adebayor during his comments, and also of voicing his total faith in Fiori.

EDIT: Just checked another couple of Milan boards, one of which has an 'in italian' section with Milan season ticket holders posting regularly (they have a mean nickname for Gila). They don't seem to know who'll be in goal either. In the English-language section of that site, there's a visiting Gooner fan who said the following:

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 02:32 AM

thanks for the update Tennie. as always


yes that's quite a quote

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 02:50 AM

I actually saw that post too! It was in the arsenal-mania forum if I remember correctly.

I could see Maldini starting at either spot, although if I had to guess I would say LB since Jankulovski has had injury issues. Whether they go with Eboue or Hleb at RW, I hope Maldini/Janku can shut them down.

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 03:28 AM

Posted by: MizNelson Feb 20 2008, 04:49 AM

If it's going to be Lehmann and Fiori, I really want to bet on who's going to do the first mistake!!

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 06:03 AM

I hope your right.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 20 2008, 06:09 AM

Can't say...Kalac is a last minute thing. I honestly don't see how a goal keeper can play with a finger dislocated.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 09:32 AM

i think this will most likely be our line-up

-------------------------Kalac--------------------------

---Oddo---------Nesta-------Kaladze----Poalo------

-------Rino-----------Pirlo--------Ambro-------------

---------------Seedorf--------Kaka------------------

------------------------Gila----------------------------


since it's away, the game will mostly based on counter attacks so Gila will most likely start to open that space up for Kaka and Seedorf . and i get a feeling that Kalac will start this one ... Pato may come on in the second half if we're trailing behind.



11 HOURS TO GO... FORZA MILAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!!!




oh and let's see if Rossoneri7 will bring us luck tonight ...

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 20 2008, 10:26 AM

I'm just so crap scared....where's Locke?? I don't know enough about Arsenal's injury situation to know who's playing...but from the looks of things...we're gonna play our usual formation that ari put up.

I'd like Emerson to start instead of Ambro though, just a hunch.

Couple of things that worry me. Arsenal are back after a thrashing...and someone's gonna pay for it. I'd rather have been facing them after a big win, than after a big thrashing.

I'd like us to first off push their defence back initially...maybe take a lot of long shots...keep them rooted in their half initially. Because they'er gonna come out initially full of energy, and rushing at us, and trying to cut down space, forcing mistakes etc.

It would be nice..to appear to play negative a bit maybe...keep possession, even if we don't do anything with it...maybe unleash a few long shots. Basically in the first half, even if we don't do anyting constructive...we should do our best to unsettle them. Not let them set into a rhythm.

And in the second half...maybe play a bit of our own game.

Arsene's said he feels Kaka is our danger man. Which almost certainly means, he's gonna be man marking Pirlo down. At this stage I'd like us to use the Napoli tactic.

Namely Emerson to play down the centre, keeping Cesc in check. While leaving Rino and Pirlo free to combine as they please.

Rino is on a yellow card, so leaving him to do the destroying might be dangerous in the very crucial second leg.

I'd also like us to start with Pippo. Though I think Pippo is being kept for the second leg.

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 20 2008, 10:46 AM

Arsenal - Milan Preview video courtesy of UEFA.com enjoy

http://www.fileflyer.com/view/I07TOCb

ill try and post the highlights later aswell

Posted by: aLbErTo Feb 20 2008, 10:58 AM

i hope that Pirlo has a performance today...if that's so, then we'll get a good result...i think he'll have enough space, since their only good defensive player in midfield is flamini(who will "chase" kaka)...forza milan forza pirlo

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 20 2008, 11:17 AM

Arsène Wenger has six players back to full fitness for the visit of Milan on Wednesday.

Gael Clichy, Mathieu Flamini and Emmanuel Adebayor were on duty at Manchester United last Saturday despite being troubled by hamstring injuries. All those will be ready to play against the Champions League holders at Emirates Stadium.

Bacary Sagna is available while Denilson and Theo Walcott have been added to the squad. However Manuel Almunia is still recovering from a virus so Jens Lehmann will keep his place.

"Bacary Sagna is back so are Gael Clichy, Mathieu Flamini and Emmanuel Adebayor," said Wenger at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

"Manuel Almunia is not completely ready to play. But he is getting there and is very close now. Jens Lehmann will start.

"Denilson is back in the squad and Theo Walcott is in too. But Johan Djourou, Robin van Persie, Abou Diaby, Tomas Rosicky are all still out."

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 20 2008, 11:18 AM

Arsène Wenger has a solid record against Italian clubs in Europe but he regards the imminent clash with Milan as "the ultimate test".

The Frenchman has lost just three times in 12 matches against Serie A opposition since taking charge of Arsenal and has presided over impressive victories against Inter, Juventus and Roma in recent years.

Wenger's side will also be protecting a proud unbeaten home record which stretches back 19 Champions League games when Milan visit Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night. Nonetheless, the Arsenal manager believes his players must be at their best to register a positive result.

"It's the ultimate test," admitted Wenger. "We're in the position of challengers tomorrow because Milan are the holders of the Champions League.

"They have quality and experience, but we're a team who can challenge them and can beat them. Overall, we want to be at our best to beat them."

"The targets in front of us are massive, but they're in front of us. We're in a very good position. Now it's down to quality."

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 20 2008, 11:20 AM

Don't be fooled by Milan's sluggish Serie A campaign. The European champions are most definitely cranking into gear for another assault on the Champions League. When it matters, Carlo Ancelotti's team tends to deliver.

A glance at Milan's cast list explains why. From back to front the Rossoneri are blessed with world-class talent from Nesta and Gattuso to Seedorf and Kaka. And if you thought they were too old, think again - Milan have a new generation of stars emerging, led by Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato.

Pato represents the future but, on Wednesday night, Arsenal fans can savour a symbol of Milan's past - Paolo Maldini. Few players in football history are respected as highly as the Italy legend and this could be Maldini's final appearance in England ahead of his summer retirement.

Maldini was one of many subjects which cropped up when we asked Gabriele Marcotti of Corriere dello Sport for an Italian perspective of Wednesday's game. Read on for his assessment of Milan, the special qualities of Kaka, where the first leg will be won and lost, and the admiration for Arsenal in Italy.

STORY SO FAR
"Ordinarily, the pattern over the last few years has been for Milan to start the season very slowly and hit top form in March and April. That said, you wonder whether they can repeat that year after year and whether it's really a reliable gameplan to follow. In a knockout situation though, they obviously have the experience and the ability. They have a guy who - for my money - is possibly the best defender in the world. That's Nesta. Then they have a guy who is probably one of the top two or three players in the world - Kaka. They have an excellent midfield, buoyed by a guy like Pirlo who has certainly proved himself. They feel that in a knockout competition they can hold their own against anybody. Where there have been issues is when they have to sustain it over 38 weeks in a league competition."

MEN OF THE MOMENT
"What makes Kaka so special is that he has all the Brazilian skills, he has the tricks and the flair, but he's also a very direct player. He's a very intelligent guy, he knows just when to give the ball first time, when to hold it up or maybe run at an opponent. He has an intelligence on the pitch which is uncanny. The other thing, and this seems to be the trend among great, skilled players, like Cristiano Ronaldo, he also has size, strength and athleticism.

"Maldini is pushing 40 and we can talk about how phenomenally fit he is and what a tremendous professional he is. It's his 22nd year in the top flight which is phenomenal, and even the fact that he's been a one-club man for so long is rare in modern football. At his age he doesn't play every week, he only plays the big games and he tries hard to keep fit. The one thing about Maldini is that he is very realistic about his ability. If he doesn't feel up to it, or if he feels that another guy can do a better job, he'll go to Carlo Ancelotti and tell him. That's a sign of great professionalism and putting the team first. He's not one of those older guys who feels that he's got to play because he's a living legend or because of his years of service. If he feels below 100 per cent he will always put the team ahead of his ego and that's one of the ingredients which has made him such a phenomenal player. "

SADLY MISSED
"I think Ronaldo is a loss based on hypotheticals because he really hadn't played much this season. It's certainly very, very sad because this will be the umpteenth knee operation of his career. You feel bad for him because he would have represented added value for Milan. But he hasn't been a huge contributor this season. As for Milan's attacking options on Wednesday, Alexandre Pato has started his career very brightly but I suspect he and Filipo Inzaghi will not start the game. I think you will see Alberto Gillardino up front in a 4-3-2-1 formation with Kaka and Seedorf tucked in behind."

TALKING TACTICS
"I think if Milan play Gillardino on his own up front, it will be essential for him to be able to hold the ball up and give the team time to push up and time to breathe. Milan play a short-passing game, they commit a lot of people forward. They are not a defensive side, they are not a counter-attacking side, but because of that they need their front guy to hold it up for them. That will be crucial. At the same time, should Adebayor be on his own up front for Arsenal, Milan will have to retain the bulk of possession in midfield and that means Kaka and Seedorf will have to help out the tight midfield three of Gattuso, Pirlo and Ambrosini.

"I think Milan would rather score away from home. I get the sense that there are going to be goals in this game. It looks like Zeljko Kalac, Milan's No 2 goalkeeper who has kind of taken over from Dida, is unlikely to start, so Fiori will come in. He's 38 and has only started two games in the last seven years. So I think it will be an open game with a few goals. A good result for Milan will be a draw, but a scoring draw."

IMPRESSIONS OF ARSENAL
"Many observers, including Claudio Ranieri, who is now the coach at Juventus, have said that Arsenal, along with Roma, play the best football in Europe. They play football the way it's supposed to be played. There is tremendous admiration for that in Italy and also for the work Arsene Wenger and his staff have done in bringing in young players from all over the world and making sure they fit into the 'Arsenal way' of doing things. Over the last two or three years it has become a blueprint for other clubs to follow and a lot of clubs have talked about following the Arsenal methods when it comes to scouting but the fact of the matter is that no one else has done it convincingly. Not many clubs have the courage to take 18 or 19-year-olds and throw them into the first team. There is a lot of admiration but there is also a lack of courage to go and emulate what Wenger and his people have done. There is tremendous curiosity out there and people want to watch attacking sides so there is no better place to be on Wednesday - the team which supposedly plays the best football in Europe against the reigning European champions."

Posted by: Locke Lamora Feb 20 2008, 11:21 AM

Arsène Wenger has branded his side as the underdogs in the Champions League Knockout Round tie against Milan.

The first leg takes place on Wednesday at Emirates Stadium. It is sure to be a nervy night, particularly after Arsenal were beaten so comprehensively by Manchester United at the weekend. But, speaking before that game, Wenger was already suggesting Carlo Ancelotti's side were the favourites - albeit slightly.

"We are underdogs, by a little bit," said the Arsenal manager. "They have the experience and won it last year. We are an upcoming team, so it is a big challenge against the holders of the trophy.

"For me we have the toughest draw of the English teams. And this game will define whether or not we can win the Champions League.

"On the other hand two years ago we played Real Madrid and went through. Last year we played Eindhoven but went out. It's very difficult to predict what's going to happen.

"The only thing we do know is that, if you don't play at your best against Milan, you're out."

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 11:49 AM

Am I the only one who prefers Pippo Inzaghi to Gila in a game like this? I just can't think of Gila scoring in this game...

Posted by: m1ke Feb 20 2008, 11:56 AM

I can't see Gila scoring either (please prove me wrong ), but he'll hold the ball up better for Kaka. I think this game will hinge on Kaka and Seedorf's performances.

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 12:01 PM

Am I the only one who prefers Pippo Inzaghi to Gila in a game like this? I just can't think of Gila scoring in this game...

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 12:04 PM

I can't see Gila scoring either (please prove me wrong ), but he'll hold the ball up better for Kaka. I think this game will hinge on Kaka and Seedorf's performances.

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 12:07 PM

I can't see Gila scoring either (please prove me wrong ), but he'll hold the ball up better for Kaka. I think this game will hinge on Kaka and Seedorf's performances.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 12:15 PM

His job at Milan has become really easy you know. We dont even expect him to score anymore, not even pass. Just hold the ball up & keep them defenders busy . Wich even that he cant. His match ratings speak for themselves.

I'm sorry ...    its just that i wanna see pato play ! I want to see an attacker who can contribute , pass , score , take a free kick  , dribble ... I havent seen that since the englisch student left . And when Gila plays , it will have to make kaka & seedorf perform even better & harder. And at this stage of the tournament , every missed chance can be fatal . 

Posted by: m1ke Feb 20 2008, 12:15 PM

I'd love to see Pato play too - and I think that if he was 100% then he would start.

It's a shame, because we all expected so much from Gila when he joined. But let's face it, Kaka is going to be our main threat in this game and it makes sense to provide him with the space he needs to work his magic - something that Gila is better at doing than Inzaghi.

Posted by: m1ke Feb 20 2008, 12:17 PM

I'd take Sheva back in a heartbeat. I miss that feeling of knowing that however bad we're playing, all he needed was one chance to score. Now, we usually have no idea where our next goal is going to come from.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 12:58 PM

I'd take Sheva back in a heartbeat. I miss that feeling of knowing that however bad we're playing, all he needed was one chance to score. Now, we usually have no idea where our next goal is going to come from.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 01:02 PM

For what it's worth, the English student apparently visited the team last night to wish them well. (I'm in the minority apparently, but I don't want him back.)

Controcampo is predicting the same lineup mentioned above (Kalac; Oddo Nesta Kaladze Maldini; Gattuso Pirlo Ambrosini; Kaka Seedorf; Gila). Pato will start on the bench.

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 01:03 PM

Poor Sheva... what a silly excuse that was... "I want to learn English"...

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 01:05 PM

I'd take Sheva back in a heartbeat. I miss that feeling of knowing that however bad we're playing, all he needed was one chance to score. Now, we usually have no idea where our next goal is going to come from.

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 01:12 PM

Pippo would be my choice without a doubt. He scores when his goals are needed the most. Leaving every footballing theory and tactical considerations aside this guy is simply a phenomenon who knows how to score. And to me it's meaningless he hasn' scored in the Serie A for a year now. The CL is where he's best at.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 01:34 PM

Galliani To Abramovich: Drogba For Three Arsenal Tickets

The Rossoneri travel to the Emirates Stadium in North London in the first leg of what is arguably the tie of the round in the Champions League last 16.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is set to be in the stands watching the game, after obtaining his tickets from Milan transfer guru Adriano Galliani.

"Roman called me because he wanted three tickets for the game tonight and wanted to see it with me,” said Galliani.

“I replied saying that I would get him the tickets but only in exchange for Drogba. Free, of course!"

Milan seem certain to sign a top-class centre forward in the summer, and Ivorian star Drogba is high up on their list of targets.

The 29-year-old has expressed his intention to leave Chelsea, and his two favoured destinations are Milan and Barcelona.

The Rossoneri have excellent relations with Chelsea, following the transfer of Andriy Shevchenko in 2006.


http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=592776

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 20 2008, 01:57 PM

We have excellent relationships with them..??

Who do we have bad relationships with?? I think the Madrid issue is solved. And with Juve it's a common enemy, so now I think there's just the merda.

And I don't think the merda will ever transfer anyone to us again. Not after what we did with Seedorf and Pirlo. We even found a use for Favalli..sorry Favallinho.

Posted by: dst Feb 20 2008, 01:59 PM

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 02:11 PM

3 ... 2 ... 1 ... Patoooooooooo     

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 02:13 PM

...
How's Janku? I don't want that ****sucker by the name of Kaladze to enter the field in the rossoneri colors. He's not even good enough to be a San Siro ball-boy!

Posted by: dst Feb 20 2008, 02:38 PM

Posted by: redbabies Feb 20 2008, 02:55 PM

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 03:02 PM

So it seems it's gonna be like this:

------------Kalac
Oddo-Nesta-Kaladze-Maldini
--Gattuso-Pirlo-Ambrosini--
-------Kaka'--Seedorf-------
----------Gilardino

I'd prefer Jankulovski instead of Maldini.

Posted by: dst Feb 20 2008, 03:07 PM

I'd prefer Jankulovski instead of Maldini.

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 03:15 PM

You must be joking... the lone presence of Maldini on the field is more important than anything else!

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 03:23 PM

Paolo should start alongside Nesta with Oddo and Janku on the flanks and Pippo as the striker.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 03:25 PM

Much as I adore Il Capitano, I agree with Porty: we need someone fast on the wings to cope with the Gooner attack. Would love to see Il Capitano in the centre of defense instead of dst's best friend, though.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 03:25 PM

My ideal formation would be like this:


--------------- Gilardino --------------

------ Seedorf --------- Kaka --------

--- Gattuso --- Pirlo --- Ambrosini --

Janku --- Maldini --- Nesta --- Oddo

---------------- Kalac -----------------


With Pato being introduced around 65-70th minute.


Well... I don't know. maybe Gila would be better for this one. of course not scoring-wise. like M1ke said, he can hold the ball better than Pippo, he's younger and more energetic. Pippo is more the man of the second legs/finals.

Posted by: dst Feb 20 2008, 03:34 PM

Maldini is old. He simply cannot play top-games anymore.

What he did vs. Inter in the 2-3 last derbies were enough for me. To see players like Cruz or Ibrahimovic making Maldini look like an amateur...

Posted by: nuh Feb 20 2008, 04:01 PM

I just hope the ****sucker somehow misses the game... I dunno... lock him in his room or something!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 04:07 PM

The team trainer (Romagnoli, I think is his name) gave an interview to a Milan radio station (so Controcampo reports). He confirmed that Kalac will start in goal and said that, in a surprise move, Pato may get the start over Gila.

Quack!

Posted by: m1ke Feb 20 2008, 04:24 PM

Ohhh, that would be awesome! I'd feel much more comfortable with Pa-Ka-Se

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 04:54 PM

Well, if Pato can handle the pressure of the Emirates' atmosphere, why not?

Posted by: Il Capitano Feb 20 2008, 05:25 PM

Well, if Pato can handle the pressure of the Emirates' atmosphere, why not?

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 05:26 PM

All streaming links for tonights game !

http://acmlive.com/cltv

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 05:37 PM

Inzaghi is starting !!!

Maldini left back , with kaladze & nesta central.

Posted by: aLbErTo Feb 20 2008, 05:54 PM

PIRLO show must be today

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 06:58 PM

Radio Kiss Kiss (Italian) says Pato will be on the first XI.

Milan (4-3-2-1): Kalac; Bonera, Nesta, Kaladze, Maldini; Gattuso, Pirlo, Ambrosini; Seedorf, Kakà; Pato.

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 07:03 PM

Everyone predicting that we gonna play with Bonera nad Kaladze. What's the f@ck wrong with playing our regular full backs?

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:14 PM

I dont know if Bonera and Maldini are right for this game, they both lack pace. Janku and Oddo would do better here IMO.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 07:22 PM

Pato does not know the meaning of pressure, he is born to be a champion

Posted by: Minami Feb 20 2008, 07:34 PM

I really hope that we'll wir today!!

If Kalac plays the possibility is better than with Fiori(although I don't really know how good he is )

Hope it's going to be a great match


FORZA MILAN

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 07:39 PM

I think Arsenal will win this game 2-1. But that wouldn't be such a bad result if you ask me. We could finish the job in San Siro with a fully fit Seedorf and Pato.

Posted by: Il Capitano Feb 20 2008, 07:44 PM

Janku must play this, we need his speed against Hleb who is very fast.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:49 PM

Maldini, Pato, Kalac starting!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 07:49 PM

from uefa.com.

Lineup:
Kalac
Oddo Nesta Kaladze Maldini
Gattuso Pirlo Ambrosini
Kaka Seedorf
Pato

C'mon, ragazzi. Make us proud.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:49 PM

Kalac
Oddo-Nesta-Kaladze-Maldini
Gattuso-Pirlo-Ambrosini
Kaka-Seedorf
Pato

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:50 PM

Pato with his first CL appearance! I'm worried about him, but optimistic! FORZA MILAN!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 07:50 PM

(Darunia and I are sharing the braincell today).

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 07:50 PM

Official:

Kalac
Oddo Nesta Kaladze Maldini
Pirlo
Gattuso Ambrosini
Seedorf
Kaka
Pato

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:51 PM

No surprises for Arsneal, the tactical isn't up but I expect

Lehmann
Sagna-Toure-Gallas-Clichy
Eboue-Cesc-Flamini-Hleb
Eduardo-Adebayor

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 07:52 PM

OFFICIAL:

Kalac

Maldini
Kaladze
Nesta
Oddo

Ambrosini
Pirlo
Gattuso

Seedorf
Kaka'

Pato

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:56 PM

Why is every other games tactical up but not Arsenal-Milan? Oh well not like there's any doubt.

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 07:56 PM

The only thing bothers me it's Kaladze in the middle and Paolo on the flank

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:59 PM

MALDINI IS IN THE MIDDLE, I WAS WRONG.

Kaladze on the flank.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 07:59 PM

I'm suprised that Carlo went to this, he hasn't played Kaladze at LB all season.

------------Kalac-------------
Oddo-Nesta-Maldini-Kaladze
--Gattuso--Pirlo--Ambrosini-
--------Kaka-----Seedorf----
--------------Pato-------------

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 08:00 PM

Don't let us down Pato!!!

FORZA MILAN

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 08:01 PM

Official Uefa website has Maldini in the center and Kaladze as LB. Most likely a mistake...

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 08:01 PM

If Maldini really plays in the middle I'lle be really relieved. He's a lot better there than on the flank. I hope Pato will have anotehr super debut although I would have prefered Superpippo.

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 08:01 PM

BENCH:

Fiori
Bonera
Jankulovski
Emerson
Brocchi
Inzaghi
Gilardino

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 08:04 PM

Official Uefa website has Maldini in the center and Kaladze as LB. Most likely a mistake...

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:05 PM

Too bad I have to miss this game ...

Alltough I'll be back for the highlights around midnight.

Forza Milan !! Forza Pato !!!

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 08:07 PM

ARSENAL: Lehmann; Sagna, Gallas, Tourè, Clichy; Ebouè, Flamini, Fabregas, Hleb; Eduardo, Adebayor.

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:10 PM

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 08:14 PM

I had to post this here, cant remember source but...

Apparently Benitez is favourite to take over from Fidel Castro. He speaks spanish, when things go wrong it's never his fault and blames the Americans for everything.

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:15 PM

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 08:18 PM

PATOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 08:18 PM

Hm. Gazzetta's live match commentary is putting Il Capitano in the middle too. (Am at work, will be seeing the game in replay).

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 08:22 PM

Kaladze vs. Eboue, hopefully that doesn't screw us.

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 20 2008, 08:25 PM

COM ON !!!!!!!!!!!! FORZA MILAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Darunia Feb 20 2008, 08:25 PM

I'm off to watch the game at the pub with my roommate (an Arsenal fan), Forza Milan!

Posted by: nuh Feb 20 2008, 08:26 PM

aaaaah it is me vs my brother

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 08:30 PM

Hm. Gazzetta's live match commentary is putting Il Capitano in the middle too. (Am at work, will be seeing the game in replay).

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 08:43 PM

Lothar! I remember Lothar!
(eeeeeee. terribly nervous about this. guy in the next office is a Gooner fan. We've agreed not to talk about the game until tomorrow.)

Game about to start. Forza Milan!

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:45 PM

game started !!!!

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:49 PM

vai patooo , great play !!!!

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:51 PM

Grande oddo !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 08:51 PM

what aa stoppp

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 08:52 PM

Pato just injuried Toure.

Senderos in.

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 08:52 PM

Toure offf wow

Posted by: Nova Feb 20 2008, 08:53 PM

Karate kick on kaladze's face by adebayor

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 08:54 PM

adebayor = monster .... gonna create a lot of problems

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 08:55 PM

we lost the control in he middle....

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 08:57 PM

Emirates Applauses for Maldini

Posted by: nmcg Feb 20 2008, 09:01 PM

anyone have any link so i can watch milan on d laptop thanx!

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:02 PM

Celtic 1-0 Barcelona. Nice goal.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:06 PM

Arsenal just playing long ball to Manu

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 09:07 PM

Adebayor is going to score for Arsenal. He seems very determined.

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 09:13 PM

Adebayor is going to score for Arsenal. He seems very determined.

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:14 PM

Gattuso injuried?

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 09:17 PM

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:18 PM

Yellow to Pato.

Earlier in the game, Adebayor kicked Kaladze in the face and got nothing... mf.

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:19 PM

Adebayor's kick was unintentional... Pato clearly pushed the guy

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:21 PM

Flamini... shot, easy for Kalac.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:22 PM

Decent chance for Arsenal just then

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 09:22 PM

Both teams can't create opportunities at all

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:24 PM

OK ADEBAYOR YELLOW???

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 09:26 PM

Celtic 2 - Barca 1

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 09:26 PM

Has Fabregas made one mistake in this game so far?

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:28 PM

I want half time to come quick, Arsneal are edging closer and closer to the target

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:28 PM

I think its only thanks to Kala that we get all these shots on goal... i mean he has the experience after playing alongside Maldini and Nesta, but he clearly lacks the intellegence....

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:29 PM

Flamini omg... no penalty

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 09:31 PM

HT

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:31 PM

HT 0-0

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 09:31 PM

What'd Flamini do?

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:31 PM

HT. Fair result.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 09:34 PM

Ambrosini our best man so far!

we've held them back great... now if we can get a goal in second half, then that should do it.

Posted by: rhy_A4 Feb 20 2008, 09:35 PM

We doing good keep it clean sheet and maybe score a goal and it should be good at home

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 20 2008, 09:38 PM

A really good game, from a Milan perspective. But,..boring.

Ambrosini our best man so far, Maldini and Nesta also awsome. Pirlo on the other side is very uninspired,..

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 09:41 PM

A really good game, from a Milan perspective. But,..boring.

Ambrosini our best man so far, Maldini and Nesta also awsome. Pirlo on the other side is very uninspired,..

Posted by: gawlo Feb 20 2008, 09:41 PM

I think it is crucial to score a goal cause this could make a big difference in the second leg.

Posted by: arivanjj Feb 20 2008, 09:45 PM

Pirlo and Kaka need to start being more decisive and link up the defense.


FORZA MILAN!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 09:45 PM

Pato's shot injuring Toure was typical

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 09:46 PM

We can and should score there.

FORZA MILAN!!

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 09:48 PM

ari, they were playing your fav song in the stadium...

Posted by: Warchant Feb 20 2008, 09:49 PM

0-0 is outstanding for me at this point

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 09:50 PM

NESTA OUT!

Janku in...God moving to the center...

Posted by: misha Feb 20 2008, 09:50 PM

F@ck. Nesta is injured. Janku in

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:50 PM

NESTA OFFF??? :|

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:50 PM

Jankulovski in.
Nesta off injuried. DAMN.

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:51 PM

Adebayors lucky day...

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 09:51 PM

Jankulovski in.
Nesta off injuried. DAMN.

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 09:53 PM

S@it!

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:53 PM

OMG. Almost Eboue.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:55 PM

Offside goal by Manu

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 09:55 PM

we will lose...

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 09:55 PM

Benzema 1-0 Man Utd.

Henry 2-2 Celtic.

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:56 PM

Nesta gone... We'r done.

Posted by: Tennie Feb 20 2008, 09:56 PM

what happened to Nesta???

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 09:57 PM

we will lose...

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 09:57 PM

oh my god...we are in for a ride...

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 09:57 PM

This is the ultimate test for us it turns out...

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 09:59 PM

Heavy pressure from arsenal at the moment

Posted by: KillerMax Feb 20 2008, 10:00 PM

It's like in FM08 when you totally give the wrong Half-Time talk...

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 10:00 PM

Arsenal...like always it's like they're allergic to shots from outside the box.

We should really bring an offensive player now. Take some pressure from our defense.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 10:00 PM

can you see the future? To quote Rocky Balboa "It ain't over till it's over". And it's far away from being over yet.
But what's wrong with Pirlo today...he has been horrible so far.

Posted by: HasanHasanly Feb 20 2008, 10:01 PM

Pato, very niicee

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Feb 20 2008, 10:02 PM

Poor poor cross by Oddo

Posted by: LaPalma Feb 20 2008, 10:02 PM

because Arsenal are playing like they should 

Posted by: Portikins Feb 20 2008, 10:03 PM

Grande Pato.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Feb 20 2008, 10:04 PM

Oddo ... fvck!