Manchester United and Barcelona Draw First Blood with Important Away Goals

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League Semi-Finals saw an away advantage in both match-ups, as Manchester United and FC Barcelona beat FC Schalke and Real Madrid 2-0 respectively.

Though there are still 90 minutes of competition left to be played, both teams like their chances of advancing to Wembley on May 28th, having positioned themselves in the driver's seat.

Not only did United and Barca win their respective games this week, they scored two away goals,  which serve as the aggregate tie-breaker and carry double the weight of a goal scored on their home turfs.

Yes, Champions League matches provide some of the best football there is to offer, but don't expect the second-leg matches to provide the type of play that is easy on the eyes—these fixtures are all but over.

In next Tuesday's matchup, look for Real Madrid to switch its tactics and deploy more attack-inclined players such as Kaka or Higuain. Their attempt to stuff the midfield last night was feeble and ill-advised, so they certainly will try something else.  

As for the Catalonians, not much will change tactically, as they seek to dominate possession and create attacks through their midfield playmakers.  What else is new?

 The suspensions of Mourinho and Pepe and Real's more offensive-minded adjustments will leave them open and susceptible to counter-attacks.  Barcelona will hold the ball for most of the game and create a few moments of brilliance. 

Prediction: 2-0 Barcelona.

The other second-leg matchup features a strong Manchester United side against a Schalke side that is in a deep hole.

Things couldn't be worse for the Germans, as they have to travel to Old Trafford next Wednesday, where United is undefeated in 22 Champions League and Premier League matches.

Scoring will prove difficult for Schalke, as their attacking options are decreased with Klass-Jan Huntelaar sidelined with a knee injury.  Without Huntelaar, their scoring threat just isn't enough to trump United's defense.

Look for the Red Devils to sit back and defend for the full 90 minutes. With skipper Nemanja Vidic returning, the Royal Blues could have an extremely difficult time finding the back of the net.

Prediction - 0-0 draw.