Lyon preview: 2nd round 2nd Leg
I was impressed by Lyon when we played them two weeks ago. A hard working, solid team with the big threat of Karim Benzema up front. United were cautious and a little bit defensive when we played with them, but matched them for workrate in the midfield. Just when we were getting onto of the game, Benzema scored a great goal and we had to come out and attack them. Bringing on Tevez and moving to 4-4-2 was the catalyst but it was a mistake that allowed United to equalise.
As United go for their 10th straight win, perversely that goal means that we don’t have to win to go through. A 0-0 draw will do, although that is an incredibly dangerous tactic to play. Luckily for United fans, Manchester United don’t ever go for 0-0 draws at Old Trafford. I’d like to see (and I’m sure Fergie would to) United go for the throat in the first twenty minutes. Sometimes we do it and win the game in the first half. I’m sure Fergie would also like to know why we don’t always do it, as we’d have been Champions of Europe a lot more than twice if we could produce that on demand.
United team news
Ryan Giggs and Nemanja Vidic were injured for the Fulham game but are expected to be fit. I wonder at what point Giggs will lose his 1st choice tag to Nani? Rested Rooney and Ronaldo return for Saha and Tevez if United play 4-5-1. Who plays in central midfield is anyone’s guess. I’ll go for Carrick, Scholes and Hargreaves. Maybe Fergie roles a dice.
Lyon team news
Lyon have been playing Benzema wide on the left with Fred up front. Sort of like putting Rooney out left, its a waste of talent, but serves a purpose. Cris is fit again, but Reveillere is suspended. After seeing Boumsong playing in England, this can only be a bonus for Lyon
Previous meetings
United and Lyon have only ever met in the Champions League. Two away draws and a 2-1 win at Old Trafford so far. A repeat of that would be nice. This is United’s 250th European match.
Form and Prediction
Derby game and Spurs away, this year United have been flying and are currently on top form. Lyon are not and were so-so against Lille at the weekend. In the Champions League, both are on unbeaten runs, but that is to be expected after the group games. I’m going for a 2-1 win.
Image Lyon, originally uploaded by raindog
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March 4th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Oh wouldn’t it be nice and relaxing if United managed an early two goal lead and Lyon did not score unill very late in the day or not at all. Would it really be United if it was like that? I think it is to be Rooney’s night.