3 Key Battles to Watch in 2014/15 Champions League Matchday 2
After a fascinating first round of matches, the UEFA Champions League group stage is back this week with another enticing set of fixtures. Some of Europe's best teams face off in the continental competition, and even though it is still early, every point counts.
Barcelona's visit to Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid's all-star clash against Juventus and Manchester City's hosting of Roma are just a few of the fixtures that will have Europe gripped over the course of Tuesday and Wednesday.
As always, the fate of this week's key matches will be influenced by a handful of key clashes between some of the world's best players. The following three battles could prove decisive in deciding which teams return from continental duty with three points and who finishes the midweek scuffles empty-handed.
3. Arda Turan vs. Arturo Vidal
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Atletico Madrid's meeting with Juventus promises to be a tense, hard-fought 90 minutes of football. The team that takes control in the middle of the pitch, providing a platform for set pieces and deliveries into the box, may just grab the upper hand.
For that reason, Turkish star Arda Turan's standoff with the dynamic Arturo Vidal will be crucial to the outcome of this Group A shootout. In the absence of Pirlo, the Chilean proved his fitness with an excellent display at the weekend for Juve and will be at the heart of the Italians' midfield as they battle to assert themselves against last year's finalists.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Cosmin Moti
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It is one of the more unlikely matchups of the Champions League. Two months ago, almost nobody outside of Bulgaria and Romania had heard the name Cosmin Moti. But one heroic penalty shootout performance later, as recalled by 101 Great Goals, and the Ludogorets defender has become a sensation.
Moti, however, faces a challenge unlike any in his career so far this week. The centre-back will have to keep tabs on one Cristiano Ronaldo, who has already bludgeoned 13 goals in nine games so far this season and will be keen to add to that tally when Real Madrid visit Razgrad on Wednesday.
1. David Luiz vs. Lionel Messi
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David Luiz's part in the 7-1 World Cup mauling at the hands of Germany had many questioning the Brazil defender's talents. Now installed in the Paris Saint-Germain back line, the former Chelsea man faces an acid test in Group F this week.
Luiz's athleticism and strength makes him a logical choice to keep tabs on Lionel Messi, the Barcelona phenomenon revelling in a more withdrawn role this year under Luis Enrique. But the Brazilian will have to show optimum concentration and discipline to avoid Barca running riot in the Parc des Princes.
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