Manchester United-Chelsea: The Battle of Nerves

Over the past few weeks, we have seen a very different atmosphere develop in the EPL. The battle for the title will be decided on goal difference if the contenders don't lose on the last day. Grant and Ferguson have developed a new rivalry and players from both camps are wasting no opportunities in passing comments on the opposition.

Both teams are optimistic about their chances of doing a double. However, more than a battle of skills or quality on the pitch, this is a battle of nerves.

Being in the shoes of any of the players involved will not be an easy task. The pressure they are facing is enormous, and the fear of losing is on everybody's mind.

Part One of this battle will see both teams taking on weaker opposition for the title of English Champions. Bolton and Wigan will be unfancied opponents. The ties might be easy to predict on paper, but in reality the mind games played by both managers and players will be play a part.

On any other given day, Manchester United and Chelsea would have easily beaten the two, but today they will be a little more careful and think twice before playing any ball. If there is a shock result, it will be due to the mind games more than a bad performance.

Whoever is mentally superior on the given day will win the title.

Part Two sees the two behemoths of English football face each other for the third time this season. Both teams have won one game each. The occasion will be the UCL finals.

The will to win is equal in both teams. One wants to win it for the first time and the other, one more time. The game looks very delicately balanced on paper but in reality, both teams will be cautious of each other and will play very calculatedly.

And once again the capability of players to withstand the pressure will be tested. The game will be played in the mind more than on the pitch.

So, all is to play for and the team that holds its nerves will win all.