Champions League Preview: Wednesday's Matches

We are on our way to the final eight and the CL is as exciting as ever.  Wednesday has the potential to see three visiting teams go through.

Let's get right into it:

FC Porto v. Schalke 04

The German side has been having an up and down run of things in the Bundesliga this season, sitting just one point out of Europe.   But they come into this game with a 1-0 aggregate lead.

Porto was favored in this tie but will need to turn around their intensity after a lackluster game two weeks ago.  Star striker Ricardo Quaresma needs to step up and lead his team.

The game will be very tense and I see Porto jumping out to an early lead with the help of their home supporters.  But Schalke is an experienced side and will steal a goal back just before the end, losing the game 2-1 but advancing on aggregate.

Chelsea v. Olympiacos

The Greek side held up strong against the English powerhouse but that was at home.  Their only chance in London is if Chelsea boss Avram Grant handles this game as poorly as he did the Carling Cup final.

With Didier Drogba coming back after resting at the weekend and the whole side healthy, they should not struggle to get through.  But after a scoreless draw away, one mistake could be deadly for the Blues.

Look for smooth sailing and at least a 2-0 win for the Londoners.

Real Madrid v. Roma

The most interesting tie of the day pits two sides fighting for the top spot in their respective leagues as well as trying to live up to CL finals expectations.

Los Blancos comes in with a tough mountain to climb but with the backing of the home fans they will have all the energy they needs.

The question will be if the defense can gel without Sergio Ramos to stop the high octane Roma attack.

On the other side of the ball Roma needs a big game from Totti if they want to advance to the final eight.  But more importantly their defense will have to find a way to stand up to what is sure to be a furious attack from Madrid all day.

Unlike last year when Roma was blown out in the second leg against Manchester United after coming in with a 2-1 agg lead, this game will be very competitive.  I see regulation ending 2-1 for Madrid and then the home team moving on with a goal in extra time.

Bonus:

Even though it is not for another week here is a quick look at Liverpool's visit to Milan.

Inter Milan v. Liverpool

After a disastrous loss at Anfield 2-0, Inter has to conjure up magic to advance.  But if any team is able to overcome such odds it is Milan.   They have the fire power and the defense to shut out Liverpool.

But for all the problems Liverpool has had in the Premiership, they always show up in the Champions League.  I cannot image a defense without Materazzi holding Liverpool scoreless.

Milan wins 2-1 but Liverpool advances.